Grand Prairie, Texas – In a move that promises to boost the local economy and preserve a storied tradition, the owners of Ruidoso Downs Racetrack have agreed on a framework to shift the Quarter Horse Racing Triple Crown Series, the All‑American Super Select Sale, and the Ruidoso Downs Hall of Fame to Lone Star Park beginning in 2027.
Historic events find a new home
The Triple Crown Series includes three marquee races: the $1 million Ruidoso Futurity, the $1 million Rainbow Futurity, and the $3 million All‑American Futurity. Together, these races represent the pinnacle of quarter‑horse competition and draw breeders, owners, trainers, jockeys, and fans from across the nation.
Why the move makes sense for Grand Prairie
General manager Rick Baugh explained that recent fires and floods forced a hard look at the future of the series. “Our responsibility has always been to protect not just a place but a legacy,” Baugh said. “Lone Star Park has the leadership, the facilities and the visibility to ensure these institutions continue to grow, thrive and reach new racing fans for generations to come.”
Grand Prairie officials welcomed the announcement, noting that the influx of participants and spectators will generate significant revenue for local businesses, hotels, and restaurants. The city’s central location within the Dallas‑Fort Worth metroplex offers easy access for fans traveling from across Texas and beyond.
Economic impact and community benefits
Industry analysts project that the relocation could bring millions of dollars in direct spending each year. The $5 million in purses alone will attract top‑tier horses and trainers, while the All‑American Super Select Sale is expected to draw buyers seeking elite breeding stock. The Hall of Fame will provide a permanent showcase for the sport’s history, offering educational opportunities for local schools and youth programs.
Local chambers of commerce anticipate new jobs in event management, hospitality, and equine services. “This is a win‑win for Grand Prairie,” said a spokesperson for the Grand Prairie Economic Development Corporation. “We gain a world‑class sporting event and the community gains a cultural asset that aligns with our family‑focused values.”
Timeline and next steps
The agreement is slated to be finalized within the next few weeks, after which both parties will work on detailed logistics, including track upgrades, marketing plans, and coordination with the Texas Racing Commission. Lone Star Park has already begun preparations to accommodate the larger crowds and enhanced media coverage expected for the Triple Crown races.
Fans of quarter‑horse racing are encouraged to stay tuned for ticket information and travel packages that will be released as the 2027 schedule solidifies. The move underscores a broader trend of consolidating premier equine events in venues that can offer state‑of‑the‑art facilities while honoring the sport’s deep‑rooted traditions.
Preserving the legacy
While the address will change, Baugh emphasized that the spirit of the Triple Crown will remain unchanged. “To every breeder, owner, trainer, jockey and groom who made the Triple Crown what it is, thank you. We are grateful to have been part of it, and we are confident that these traditions will continue to grow at Lone Star Park,” he said.
Grand Prairie residents can look forward to an exciting new chapter in the city’s sporting calendar, one that blends high‑stakes competition with community pride and family‑friendly entertainment.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
