Hardtokatch, who qualified for the Grade 1, 400-yard Ruidoso Derby at Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Casino, died after the qualifying trials on May 25.

Both racetrack and New Mexico racing officials confirmed that Hardtokatch died.

Saturday was the first time track or state officials had confirmed the death of Hardtokatch to the El Paso Times.

Izzy Trejo, Executive Director of Racing in New Mexico, said autopsy results have not been returned on the cause of death for Hardtokatch.

The trainer for Hardtokatch is Cristian Alcala and the owner is JSM Quarter Horses LLC and Alcala Ranch LLC.

The race is scheduled for today, June 7 and is race No. 10.

Electrifying Cowboy, Lethal Cowboy 123 scratched

Two other Ruidoso Derby horses were scratched on Saturday, leaving a field of seven for the

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