RUIDOSO DOWNS, NM – MAY 25, 2020 – New News made a little news of his own this Memorial Day with a win in the second running of the $40,000 John Andreini Memorial Stakes at Ruidoso Downs Race Track. In addition, his victory marked the first win for 18-year-old trainer Janell Sanderson.

Making his first official start since March 1st when he won the Rio Grande Handicap at Sunland Park, New News covered the 350 yards in:17.57. Owned by Cesar Sanchez and Nathaneal Pallanes, the Texas-bred sorrel gelding is the son of the Corona Cartel stallion Majestic Cartel.

“This is overwhelming,” said Sanderson. “I’ve been involved with my family in racing, but I just got my trainer’s license in El Paso this winter. This was my first actual win as the named trainer, so I am very excited!” 

New News, who was ridden by Jaime Leos, has lifetime earnings of $178,111 and has won 4 of his 17 starts.

“My horse did what he was supposed to do when the gates opened, fast and straight,” Leos said. “It was my second time on him, and he showed he could run at Sunland. He came right back and won again today, and he was strong to the finish line.” 

After three days of trials for the Ruidoso Futurity and the Ruidoso Derby, today also marked the return of Thoroughbred racing to Ruidoso Downs as the program featured six Thoroughbred races. It was also the first time in two months that Thoroughbreds had raced in New Mexico. 

Racing returns to Ruidoso Downs next Friday through Sunday with a full card of racing each day.