RUIDOSO DOWNS, NM – JUNE 20, 2020 – My Storm Warrior took home the top prize today in the running of the Mountain Top Thoroughbred Futurity even though Fill the Bill actually crossed the wire first. The turn of events happened after a lengthy Stewards’ Inquiry disqualified Fill the Bill from first-place to third-place for impeding the progress of eventual second-place finisher One Mark in the home stretch of the 5-furlong race.

My Storm Warrior, one of the five Todd Fincher-trained horses in the race line-up, is a gelding by Atilla’s Storm out of Key to My Warrior by Majestic Warrior. Owned by Dale F. Taylor Racing, LLC, the long shot returned $69.60 on a $2 ticket.

“I wasn’t that surprised because My Storm Warrior was running down horses in his trial race to qualify. I thought the pace was pretty strong today, so he was able to close well,” said trainer Todd Fincher.

Fincher’s horse Aisle Runner was the early favorite after winning his trial heat by 6 lengths pulling away. However, today was not the day for Aisle Runner who ended up finishing fourth.

My Storm Warrior originally had Alfredo Sigala aboard, but this morning, jockey Frank Reyes was named to ride him. Reyes deftly guided the gelding over the 5 furlongs and eventually into the winner’s circle.

“I was just focused on my horse. I didn’t see the issue between Fill the Bill and One Mark. They were on the outside, and my horse just kept moving,” said Reyes. “I had a firm hold on him, and he showed his class.”

The purse for the Mountain Top Thoroughbred Futurity is $163,415 and includes $15,000 added by the New Mexico Horse Breeders’ Association and $15,000 added by the Ruidoso Horse Sale Co.

Racing continues tomorrow with an 11-race card with a post time of 1:00 PM. The All American Turf Club and the Ruidoso Jockey Club are now open to 50% capacity for horse owners and season ticket holders under strict COVID-Safe Practice protocols.

For more information on how to live stream the racing action, and for information on our drive-thru wagering at the Ruidoso Sale Barn, please visit RaceRuidoso.com.