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Ruidoso Downs' Chaplaincy Earns White Horse Community Service Award
The chapel sanctuary at Ruidoso Downs.

© Ty Wyant
Ruidoso Downs' Chaplaincy Earns White Horse Community Service Award

RUIDOSO DOWNS, NM—NOVEMBER 5, 2018—The Ruidoso Downs' ownership was presented with the White Horse Community Service Award during the White Horse Award ceremonies at Churchill Downs during Breeders' Cup festivities. It was given for work done expanding the chaplaincy with a new chapel

The Ruidoso Downs' ownership, All American Ruidoso Downs (AARD), is comprised of the Estate of John Andreini, Narciso "Chicho" Flores, Stan Sigman and Johnny Trotter.

Ruidoso Downs' president and general manager Jeff True received the award for the track's ownership.

"AARD is honored to be recognized by the Race Track Chaplaincy of America (RTCA). We are committed to the chaplaincy and all that it provides to the well-being of our horsemen, employees and our community," True said.

The Community Service Award is given annually to an individual or group who has made significant contributions to racetrack chaplaincy ministries through involvement and participation.

"It is a huge recognition for what the owners of the track are doing here," Ruidoso Downs' chaplain Darrell Winter said. "It is a great way to be recognized for their efforts and show people across the country what we're doing here. There were people there (at the ceremony) who didn't know much about Ruidoso Downs and this helps increase awareness for Ruidoso Downs."

The ownership purchased the track in October, 2017 and the first services in the new chapel were in late July, 2018.

The 8,640 square-foot chapel is divided equally between kids' program facilities, meal fellowships and a place of worship that seats nearly 300 people. One unique feature is a prayer room that will be open 24 hours, 365 days a year.

The kid's ministry includes a computer room, a library, a Bible lesson area, crafts area and a breakfast area. There is also an outside play area. Kids Klub is held daily during the summer racing season for children of backstretch workers.

Winters said that when this project started the guiding verse was, "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain." Psalms 127:1

Winter says that God has fulfilled the verse through a community of support.