tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21925891961309283952024-03-07T20:36:00.666-08:00Pugs, ponies and prepsFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.comBlogger1036125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-69823801919814710762010-06-21T20:45:00.000-07:002010-06-21T20:49:57.808-07:00High School Football RankingsHere's a preseason Top 5 ranking for Class 5A Football<br />1 - La Cueva<br />2 - Mayfield<br />3 - Las Cruces<br />4 - Clovis<br />5 - Manzano, Sandia (tie)<br /><br />On another note, any thoughts on Mayfield running back Brandon is receiving some interest from Division I schools, including New Mexico State and perhaps Texas-El Paso? <br /><br />Betancourt will need to prove he can get done consistently and stay healthy. It'll be interesting to see if any other schools jump in the mix.<br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-83225545155236028292010-06-20T15:36:00.000-07:002010-06-20T15:48:32.851-07:00Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.Next Saturday at the Alamodome in San Antonio, unbeaten Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., the son of the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez, meets John Duddy in a bout fight that both fighters need. <br /><br />Chavez Jr. isn't widely considered a great father like his dad and Duddy was once a prospect, but has one loss to his name. <br /><br />Both are considered average fighters by many boxing fans. I have not been impressed by either fighter in their careers, although Chavez Jr. is only 24 and he is working with trainer Freddie Roach. <br /><br />What are you thoughts on either fighter, but especially Chavez Jr. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-85907545035515392362010-06-15T13:43:00.000-07:002010-06-15T14:01:05.327-07:00Continuing series on top hispanic jockeysOne of the sport's better hispanic jockeys over the years has been Mexico City's Victor Espinoza. He currently rides in California and is one of the many top riders on the tough Southern California circuit. <br /><br />Arguably he is best known for riding 2002 Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner War Emblem. Espinoza also finished third in the 2001 Kentucky Derby aboard Congaree. <br /><br />Espinoza is a solid, if not spectacular rider. He has been consistent throughout his career and is always a danger. He's been the rider on many top horses, including Happy Ticket and Imperialism.<br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-7351031718424882262010-06-13T12:29:00.000-07:002010-06-13T12:42:27.069-07:00Siju Shabazz wins regionalLas Cruces amatuer fighter Siju Shabazz won a USA Boxing regional title on Saturday night in Albuquerque with a decision win over Arizona's Robert Lopez. <br />With the win, Shabazz advances to the USA Nationals next month in Colorado. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-88754274143844844572010-06-09T18:54:00.000-07:002010-06-09T18:55:17.692-07:00Joel Garcia boxing storyUp and coming Garcia has high hopes<br />By Felix Chavez<br />El Paso Times<br />EL PASO — El Paso has been home to many solid lower weight fighters over the years, including Fernie Morales, Juan Lazcano and Antonio Escalante. <br />The city has another world title hopeful on its hands in 19-year-old Joel Garcia. Garcia recently made his pro debut in Laredo and left with a four-round decision victory against Raymundo Torres on Torres’ home turf. <br />“It was a good win,” Garcia said. “It was good to get in there and get the first pro fight out of the way. I felt like I did some good things.”<br />Garcia’s trainer Louis Aguilar said Garcia handled himself well in the pro debut, particularly since it was in his opponent’s hometown. <br />“We didn’t have much notice for the fight, but Joel was in the gym getting ready for a fight and was in good shape,” Aguilar said. “Joel boxed well, he settled in just fine.”<br />Garcia is currently fighting between 108 and 112 pounds, but Aguilar said he could fighter at a higher weight down the road. <br />Garcia would like to fight five times this year and could be busy this summer. He is slated to fight next month in New Mexico on the undercard of the Johnny Tapia vs. Frankie Archuleta featherweight bout. Garcia could also land on a card in McAllen, Texas, later this month as well. <br />“I’d like to stay busy,” Garcia said. “It’s a learning experience as a professional. There is so much to pick up and work on. It’s a process and I’ll be patient. I have a lot of good help here in El Paso. I spar with a lot of fighters at or near my weight and that helps me in terms of preparation. I’m able to experience a lot of things in the gym.”<br />Garcia certainly has the amateur pedigree to become a competitive professional boxer. He won 79 of his 86 fights, won several El Paso Golden Gloves titles and was also a two-time regional Chihuahua state champion. <br />“Joel had some very tough fights as an amateur and that will help him as he fights more as a pro,” Aguilar said. “Joel is a good boxer and he’s getting better all the time. He’s still young, but he has impressed a lot of people so far. He works hard in the gym and he always wants to get better. There isn’t any need to rush him. He took some time off from the sport, but he’s ready for the professional ranks.”<br />Garcia said his goal is to win a world title one day, but he’s aware of the time and preparation it will take.<br />“A championship belt is something I really want,” Garcia said. “I know it will take time. I learned a great deal in the amateurs and it help me get ready for the professional level. I just look forward to my next fight and want to win that one and then it’s on to the next one after that.”<br /><br />Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; (915) 546-6374Felixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-86146310326646675902010-06-08T18:52:00.000-07:002010-06-08T18:55:31.606-07:00New Onate coachesApparently, Ben Trujillo will be the new girls basketball coach at Onate High School, while former New Mexico State volleyball player Alice Borden has been pegged as the new volleyball coach.<br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-79051752674870461832010-06-07T14:28:00.000-07:002010-06-07T17:17:03.635-07:00Another Hispanic Jockey PostI have posted two blog items on retired hispanic jockeys in the past couple of days. Today, I take a look at a current jockey and one of the best going today. <br /><br />The talented Rafael Bejarano has emerged as one of the nation's best since 2004. The 27-year-old native of Peru is having a big year this year and we aren't even halfway through the year. His horses have earned a nation's best $6,739,101 through June 6.<br /><br />Bejarano is very adept at reading how a race will happen and then make the correct adjustments. He's won with horses on the lead and with horses having to come from behind in which he has to make a bold move at the critical time. <br /><br />Bejarano has won several big races including the San Felipe Stakes, the Blue Grass Stakes and the Breeders' Cup Distaff. <br /><br />Among the top horses he's been on include Papa Clem, Ginger Punch and Square Eddie. Bejarano has been a staple in California, but surely it won't be long before the talented rider gets a chance to become a top notch jockey all over the U.S. He rides hard, with confidence and with patience and he can never be underestimated. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-89318046591635632962010-06-06T12:07:00.000-07:002010-06-06T12:14:01.861-07:00More Top Hispanic JockeysToday I continue a look at the top Hispanic jockeys of all-time. Today, I give you a look at Mexican Ismael "Milo" Valenzuela. Valenzuela began working with quarter horses in his young career, but by the late 1950s, he was beginning to make his mark on the thoroughbred scene. <br /><br />Valenzuela rode such great great horses as Tim Tam and Kelso. Tim Tam won the Kentucky Derby and Preakness, while Kelso won 22 of 35 starts. <br /><br />Valenzuela is part of the National Racing Museum Hall of Fame and won more than 2,500 races in his fine career. Valenzuela is part of a great family of riding, which includes Pat Valenzuela, who is currently riding in Louisiana and has been at top of the sport at various times in his career. <br /><br />Ismael Valenzuela was a complete rider, he won at the highest levels of the sport and is among one of the top riders of all time. You don't get an assignment to ride a horse like Kelso if you don't have the ability to do so and the confidence and respect of many. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-80565490913182772502010-06-05T19:20:00.000-07:002010-06-05T19:43:35.006-07:00Top Hispanic jockeysToday I start a look at some of the top hispanic old-timer jockeys and some of the current hispanic jockeys, who have made a name for themselves. There is a long and beautiful history of Mexican, Panamanian and other Latin American jockeys and their influence on the Sport of Kings. <br /><br />One of the greatest jockeys of our time was the gifted Panamaian, Braulio Baeza. he led the U.S. in earnings five times and won the George Woolf Memorial jockey Award in 1968. In his career, Baeza won an impressive 4,013 races, including wins in the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks, Belmont Stakes, Travers Stakes and the Blue Grass Stakes. <br /><br />Baeza rode so many great horses, but among the best he rode were Ack Ack, Dr. Fager and Buckpasser. <br /><br />Baeza was greatly respected for his patient rides and his confidence to perform at the highest level. Many of today's top hispanic riders owe a lot to Baeza. He rode not only here in the United States but in other countries where he fared well. <br /><br />I never saw Baeza ride live, I was just two years old when he retired, but he certainly made the most of opportunities and helped open the door for many of today's latino jockeys. Baeza is certainly someone to look up to in terms of knowing how to be successful at the best tracks and in the biggest races. <br /><br />His legacy in the sport will never be forgotten and must be considered to be in the top tier of jockeys of any race, but he's certaily in the top five of any list that rates hispanic jockeys. <br /><br />Any thoughts? <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-91132620595088282132010-06-01T14:43:00.000-07:002010-06-01T14:46:14.349-07:00Ring Magazine on Austin TroutLas Cruces junior middleweight Austin Trout, who is ranked by the World Boxing Association didn't exactly getting a ringing endorsement by Ring Magazine in the July issue. <br /><br />Trout was given the dubious distinction of being tabbed the most protected in the 154-pound division in the recent state of the game edition of the magazine. <br /><br />The junior middleweight division features standouts Alfred Angulo, Sergio Martinez and Paul Williams. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-37131421070999409422010-05-31T18:22:00.000-07:002010-05-31T18:29:43.064-07:00Former local prep baseball playersCongrats to former Las Cruces area high school baseball players Ryan Honeycutt, Daniel Gonzalez, Steven Flores and Gera Sanchez. The four players are on the University of New Mexico baseball team, which was selected to play in the NCAA Tournament on Monday. <br /><br />Honeycutt, Gonzalez and Sanchez played key roles on the team this year. Sanchez won a pair of games on the mound, while Honeycutt and Gonzalez were two of the team's top offensive players. <br /><br />The Lobos will be playing in their first NCAA Tournament since 1962. All three were very good high school players and were high on Lobos coach Ray Birmingham's radar when he took the job with the Lobos. <br /><br />Got to give all the former area high school kids credit for doing what they had to do to make it happen for the Lobos. And give Birmingham credit for what he's done with UNM. He had a goal of taking UNM to the College World Series and this is another step in the process. And he said he'd do it with New Mexico kids and he has kept his word on that promise as well. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-26140503187744141282010-05-30T21:40:00.001-07:002010-05-30T22:11:36.596-07:00All-State Baseball, 3A, 4A, 5AClass 3A State Baseball teams<br />First Team<br />Class 3A<br />Pitchers<br />Matt Forsyth, Hope Christian<br />Colin Friedman, St. Mike's<br />Jared Gallegos, West Las Vegas<br />Alex Garcia, Bloomfield<br />Aaron Ordonez, Cobre<br />Michael Hernandez, St. Mike's<br />Outfielders<br />Matthew Miramontes, Bloomfield<br />Irving Gomez, Cobre<br />Catcher<br />Shane Harmishige, St. Mike's<br />First Base<br />Regan Ramos, Cobre<br />Joel Vega, Hope Christian<br />Second Base<br />Nick Nelson, Sandia Prep<br />Shorstop<br />Jay Dominguez, Cobre<br />Michael Eaton, Sandia Prep<br />Third Base<br />Aaron Ordonez, Cobre<br />DH<br />George Marquez, Raton<br /><br />Second Team<br />Pitchers<br />Alex Kyriakis, Sandia Prep<br />Michael Chavez, Socorro<br />Zach Shark, Miyamura<br />Blake Washburn, Raton<br />Brian Detrick, Bloomfield<br />Nick Aragon, Robertson<br />Gene Chavez, SF Indian<br />Outfielders<br />Roberto Martinez, Sandia Prep<br />Andrew Castanon, Cobre<br />Ian Sutton, Hope Christian<br />Jared Gallegos, West Las Vegas<br />Brennan Day, Sandia Prep<br />Robert Martinez, Sandia Prep<br />Girard Martinez, Robertson<br />First Base<br />Clay Payne, Bloomfield<br />Second Base<br />Alex Garcia, Bloomfield<br />Charlie Savedra, Socorro<br />Shorstop<br />Nick Nelson, Sandia Prep<br />Michael Archibeque, Bloomfield<br />Third Base<br />Nick Aragon, Robertson<br />Justus Jaramillo, Socorro<br />Alex Houser, Sandia Prep<br />DH<br />Levi Helton<br />Player of the Year<br />Alex Garcia, Bloomfield<br />Coach of the Year<br />Frank DeHoyos<br /><br />Class 4A<br />First Team<br />Pitchers<br />Chris Fischer, Moriarty<br />Jake MaCasland, Piedra Vista<br />Tim Bailey, Piedra Vista<br />Eli Freese, Farmington<br />Deven Nelson, Artesia<br />Victor Sanchez, Volcano Vista<br />Outfielders<br />Steven Contreras, Belen<br />Max Ruben, Moriarty<br />Shilo McCall, Piedra Vista<br />Shane Weedson, Piedra Vista<br />Steven Pilito, Artesia<br />Catchers<br />Morgan McCasland, Piedra Vista<br />Isaac Aragon, Moriarty<br />First Base<br />Jake McCasland, Piedra Vista<br />Second Base<br />Keaton Chancellor, Moriarty<br />Jacob Zunich, Silver<br />Shorstop<br />Alex Bregman, Academy<br />Third Base<br />Victor Sanchez, Volcano Vista<br />DH<br />Robbie Bell, Moriarty<br />Damion Lovato, Piedra Vista<br /><br />Second Team<br />Pitchers<br />Kevin Piersol, St. Pius<br />Scott Berkebile, Los Alamos<br />Quentin Mansfield, Belen<br />Matt Holona, Belen<br />Dominic Moreno, Piedra Vista<br />Joe Chandler, Farmington<br />Robbie Bell, Moriarty<br />Jorge Venegas, Valencia<br />Outfielders<br />Brycon Campbell, Farmington<br />Javy Armendariz, Deming<br />Elliot Hanson, Academy<br />Lincoln Stanfield, Academy<br />Cody Donaghe, Artesia<br />Quintin Rizek, St. Pius<br />Catchers<br />Hunter Blaylock, Belen<br />Chris Lobato, St. Pius<br />First Base<br />Javier Sanchez, Farmington<br />TJ Trujillo, Volcano Vista<br />Second Base<br />Scott Wilcox, Farmington<br />Andre Vigil, Volcano Vista<br />Tanner Cooper, Piedra Vista<br />Shortstop<br />Nick Gonzales, Moriarty<br />Chris Weaver, Farmington<br />Tim Bailey, Piedra Vista<br />Aaron Huerta, Silver<br />Third Base<br />Chris Nunez, Goddard<br />DH<br />Nick Martinez, St. Pius<br />Eli Freeze, Farmington<br />Player of the Year<br />Jake McCasland, Piedra Vista<br />Coach of the Year<br />Mike Magaha, Piedra Vista<br /><br />Class 5A<br />First Team<br />Pitchers<br />Sam Wilson, Eldorado<br />Josh Walker, Carlsbad<br />Josh McCallister, La Cueva<br />Roby Romero, Onate<br />Kaleb Nelson, Hobbs<br /><br />Outfielders<br />Joe Sena, Rio Rancho<br />Sam Wilson, Eldorado<br />Ryan Padilla, La Cueva<br /><br />Catchers<br />Blake Swihart, Cleveland<br /><br />First Base<br />Nate Ross, La Cueva<br />Ben Matheson, Rio Rancho<br /><br />Second Base<br />Bobby Blackstone, Eldorado<br /><br />Shorstop<br />Kris Martinez, Rio Rancho<br /><br />Third Base<br />Robert Gunther, Sandia<br /><br />DH<br />Wes Koerper, Onate<br /><br />Second Team<br />Pitchers <br />Brulio Hernandez, Albuquerque High<br />Chris Lee, Las Cruces High<br />Nicasio Sanchez, Sandia<br />Thomas Lee Mares, Manzano<br />Ryan Padilla, La Cueva<br />Angel Sanchez, Hobbs<br /><br />Outfielers<br />Aaron Sandoval, Onate<br />Austin Bertola, Hobbs<br />Josh Walker, Rio Rancho<br /><br />Catchers<br />Andrew Castillo, Carlsbad<br />Ethan McCranie, Rio Rancho<br /><br />First Base<br />John Cachora, Onate<br />Kameron McLLroy, Hobbs<br /><br />Second Base<br />Nathan Paz, Las Cruces<br /><br />Shorstop<br />Jason Sandoval, Onate<br />Matt Smith, La Cueva<br />Matt Chavarria, Carlsbad<br /><br />Third Base<br />Anthony Boyle, Hobbs<br /><br />DH<br />Zach Cogan, La Cueva<br /><br />Co-Player of the Year<br />Sam Wilson, Eldorado<br />Josh Walker, Rio Rancho<br /><br />Coach of the Year<br />Jim Johns, EldoradoFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-75689835729211638492010-05-29T16:20:00.000-07:002010-05-29T16:32:04.139-07:00Softball All-State, 4A/5AClass 5A<br />1st Team<br />Pitcher<br />Kelsey Stevens, La Cueva<br />Alberta Medina, Las Cruces High<br />Catcher<br />Val Swedburg, Cibola<br />First Baseman <br />Jillian Navarette, Carlsbad<br />Second Baseman<br />Shelby Lucero, La Cueva<br />Kuuleiokealoah Vonshriltz, Las Cruces<br />Third Baseman<br />Shelby Pendley, Rio Rancho<br />Shortstop<br />Lizzy Castro Carlsbad<br />Outfield<br />Courtney Williams, Carlsbad<br />Alexis Dotson, Las Cruces<br />Stephanie Haft, La Cueva<br /><br />Second Team<br />Pitcher<br />Sandra Serna, Sandia<br />Nicole Pendley, Rio Rancho<br /><br />Catcher<br />Kely Munoz, Carlsbad<br />First Baseman<br />Shannon Garcia, Rio Rancho<br />Second Baseman<br />Stephanie Dunham, Rio Rancho<br />Third Baseman<br />Ty Ramirez, Carlsbad<br />Shortstop<br />Jessie Roane, Rio Rancho<br />Outfield<br />Christen Miller, Rio Rancho<br />Lara VanEver, Sandia<br />Brianna Chavez, Rio Rancho<br /><br />Class 4A<br />1st Team<br />Pitcher<br />Karysta Donisthorpe, Piedra Vista<br />Katera Eltsosie, Volanco Vista<br />Catcher<br />Aurelia Sandoval, Piedra Vista<br />First Baseman<br />Rachael Ward, Piedra Vista<br />Second Baseman<br />Marissa Ellis, Piedra Vista<br />Third Baseman<br />Jordan Ensign, Piedra Vista<br />Shortstop<br />Sheasia Yazzie, Piedra Vista<br />Outfield<br />Meriel Parrish, Piedra Vista<br />Ashton Martinez, Farmington<br />Haley Thompson, Farmington<br /><br />Second Team<br />Pitcher<br />Annamarie Rascon, Silver City<br />Naisha Nackai, Kirtland Central<br />Catcher<br />Erika Gonzales, Farmington<br />First Baseman<br />Tansi Rudder, Aztec<br />Second Baseman<br />Kylnn Beall, Farmington<br />Third Baseman<br />Shaylynn Brown, Volcano Vista<br />Shorstop <br />Robin Randall, Farmington<br />Outfield<br />Brittany Sofka, Piedra Vista<br />Ally Hakeem, St. Pius<br />Addie Woods, AztecFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-26102724136196473582010-05-29T10:43:00.000-07:002010-05-29T10:48:01.353-07:00Ruidoso Futurity QualifiersThe 10 qualifiers for the June 13, 350-yard Ruidoso Futurity at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack and Casino<br /><br />1. American Runaway 17.138<br />2. Royally Sandra 17.455<br />3. Fredona 17.460<br />4. Unanchored 17.468<br />5. Absolut Treasure 17.487<br />6. Treason 17.510<br />7. No Dice Special 17.513<br />8. Bodacious Dash 17.590<br />9. Legendary Express 17.601<br />10. Brimmin To Pass 17.606<br /><br />Of note, both American Runaway and Royally Sandra were very, very impressive in the trials. American Runaway shipped in from Remington Park in Oklahoma and won his trial very easily. Royally Sandra did her work over a less than stellar track. She had to win over a sloppy track after a downpour midway through the 19 trials. She could be the favorite on June 13. West Texas Futurity winner No Dice Special earned a spot in the June 13 final as did Treason, who was very good in his first career start for trainer Michael Joiner.Felixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-84182651386145595452010-05-25T13:31:00.000-07:002010-05-25T13:32:17.215-07:00Boxing Book ReviewTitle: Hit Man The Thomas Hearns Story<br />Authors: Brian and Damian Hughes<br />Pages: 240<br />Price: $17.95<br />Publisher: Milo Books<br /><br />By Felix Chavez<br />In the late 1970s and much of the 1980s, boxing saw some of it biggest fights and was often times in the center of the sports world.<br />There were plenty of big names involved, i.e. Sugar Ray Leonard, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Marvin Hagler and Larry Holmes. <br />Also included in that list is the man known as the “Hit Man” Thomas Hearns. While there has been much written about Tyson, Leonard, Duran and Holmes, an in-depth book about Hearns had yet to be written until authors Brian and Damian Hughes collaborated on a Hearns biography entitled “Hit Man The Thomas Hearns Story.”<br />For sports fans, but specially boxing fans, the biography Hearns is an important one in many ways. <br />Hearns, who won 61 of 67 fights, was one of the most recognizable sports figures during the 1980s. He fought Leonard, Duran, Hagler, Pipino Cuevas and Iran Barkley and was a popular figure because of his aggressive style, which included a thunderous right hand. <br />The book also gives readers a detailed look into Hearns’ boxing career, where he got started in the rough and tumble world of Detroit and his relationship with legendary trainer/manager Emanuel Steward. <br />This detailed biography can also help boxing fans can judge where Hearns stands in boxing lore because it gives readers a detailed account of several of Hearns’ key bouts and revives key details from his fights with Leonard, Duran and Hagler among others. <br />A good boxing book will always including behind-the-scenes details of a fighter’s career, whether it’s in the gym, negotiations for a fight or the moments leading up to a big fight. The Hughes’ did an adequate job of this in their piece on Hearns. There are many interesting side notes and interesting facts about not only Hearns but also other fighters and participants in the sport that were unknown to this reader and could very well be unknown to many readers. <br />Hearns, who was raised in Detroit, was officially a professional from 1977 until 2006, but did much of his good work from 1977 until 1992. Overall the book does a very good job of taking the reader through the ups and downs of Hearns’ career as well as giving us a detailed record of what Hearns and his team were thinking as they tried to maximize his potential. <br />During his time as a fighter, Hearns was a popular figure, an exciting figure and part of a very successful line of fighters to come out of the famed Kronk Gym in Detroit. It’s unfortunate that a book on his career took so long to originate, but the wait was worth it with “Hit Man The Thomas Hearns Story.” <br /><br />Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; (915) 546-6374Felixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-74353635584246920862010-05-23T12:30:00.000-07:002010-05-23T12:31:45.947-07:00Rafael Marquez vs. Israel VasquezWell, it look as if Israel Vasquez has nothing left. On Saturday night, Vasquez was destroyed in less than three rounds by Rafael Marquez in a featherweight bout. The first three fights were very competitive, but on Saturday Marquez cut Vasquez, then pounced on him to even the battle at 2-2. But Vasquez should retire, while Marquez bought himself more time for his career. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-62788416426527314032010-05-22T13:58:00.000-07:002010-05-22T13:59:51.184-07:00Abie Han vs. Shibata Flores offLooks like the proposed July 17 Abie Han vs. Shibata Flores in Phoenix is off. Han is unbeaten in 10 fights, Flores is aiming for a comeback at 154. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-5210323524337118772010-05-19T17:14:00.000-07:002010-05-19T17:42:39.113-07:00Mine That Bird Changes TrainersWednesday came the news that horse trainer Chip Woolley was no longer the trainer for 2009 Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird. <br /><br />Instead, the 4-year-old horse, who has been resting at the Double Eagle Ranch in Roswell, will now be in the hands of Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas. <br /><br />It's got to be tough on Woolley, who trained Mine That Bird through a solid 2009 campaign, which included a second-place showing in the Preakness, a third-place showing in the Belmont and a second-place showing in the Borderland Derby. <br /><br />Woolley worked hard to help develop Mine That Bird and helped bring a certain amount of respect to New Mexico racing. Without Woolley in Mine That Bird's corner anymore, the relationship to Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino loses some of its luster. <br /><br />Lukas is a veteran trainer and knows how to get a horse ready to compete. Mine That Bird has been off since last November and he needed that break. <br /><br />Will Mine That Bird improve under Lukas? Perhaps. But Woolley deserved a chance to train the horse as a four-year-old and beyond and he deserved a chance to show he can be as good a trainer as some of the elite in the business. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-59262797425895475212010-05-18T12:56:00.001-07:002010-05-23T20:00:07.211-07:00Boxing columnAdding Burke could help Escalante <br />By Felix Chavez<br />El Paso Times<br />With a title shot on the horizon, El Paso featherweight Antonio Escalante has chosen to team with Las Cruces trainer Louie Burke to complete that mission. <br />And a solid choice it is. <br />The soon-to-be 25-year-old Escalante is ranked in the top 10 by various organizations and well deserved those rankings are. He’s battled-tested, he’ll fight the top fighters and he’s exciting to watch. The 23-2 Escalante was recently named one of the world’s most exciting fighters by The Ring Magazine, coming in at No. 10 on the top 10 list. <br />But if Escalante is going to take that next step into the elite of the boxing world, he needed to shore up some holes in his defense. <br />And that’s where Burke comes in. Burke, who trains area fighters Austin Trout (junior middleweight), David Rodriguez (heavyweight) and Abie Han (junior middleweight), will work closely with Escalante on the little things than can separate him from others. <br />Escalante is a focused fighter, a talented offensive fighter who loves the gym and wants to get better. He just needs a little push to get to the top of the world in the featherweight ranks, which is absolutely loaded with talent, i.e. Juan Manuel Lopez and Yuriorkis Gamboa. <br />Burke in particular has helped make Han and Trout much better fighters as they have made the progression from the amateur to the professional ranks. <br />Burke is a former professional and amateur fighter himself and has drawn solid reviews from present and former fighters for his work in the gym and in the corner during fights. <br />Part of what makes Burke a good trainer, is his ability to locate a fighter’s strengths and weaknesses, then help them improve on the weaknesses, while helping fine-tune his strenghts. <br />He knows Escalante is a powerful offensive fighter, he won’t change that. Instead, he’ll focus on getting Escalante better on defense and that in turn could help Escalante become an even better offensive fighter.<br />In addition, Burke is an easy trainer to work with personality wise. He loves the game, he wants what’s best for his fighter and he’ll be honest with Escalante. Escalante also has an easy-going personality and that should enable him to work closely with Burke, while taking what Burke has to say seriously and without feeling like Burke is solely picking on his weaknesses.<br />At this point in his career, Escalante must have one focus and that’s to be the best he can to win a world title. Simply put, Burke wants that for Escalante and will help him in any fashion. <br />There will be a transition for both fighter and trainer in the coming weeks, but if the two can come together with one purpose, it shouldn’t be a difficult working situation. <br />Escalante should be back in the ring soon and there are plenty of big fights that are ahead of him. <br />One fight on the horizon could come with Mexican featherweight Daniel Ponce De Leon. The former 122-pound champ is well known in the area and a Ponce De Leon vs. Escalante fight would be a huge attraction in El Paso. Both fighters will get after it and right now the fight would be a pick-em fight in my book. <br />But first things first and that’s the Burke and Escalante alliance. On paper, it shapes up to be a good move for both, only time will tell. <br /><br />Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@lcsun-news.com; (915) 546-6374Felixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-11921393243496457152010-05-17T12:42:00.000-07:002010-05-17T12:44:32.793-07:00Louie Burke and Antonio EscalanteLas Cruces boxing trainer Louie Burke has begun working El Paso featherweight prospect Antonio Escalante. If everything works out and every indication points that it has, the two should be working together for his Escalante's next fight, which could happen in late June or July according to sources. <br /><br />Escalante is ranked in the top 10 by a pair of governing bodies. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-50270966031802927802010-05-11T19:04:00.000-07:002010-05-11T19:05:15.023-07:00Abie Han columnImproving Han could soon be toast of El Paso <br />By Felix Chavez<br />El Paso Times<br />El Paso and the Borderland have long craved a boxing world champion to call their own. <br />There are plenty of boxing prospects in the area, i.e. featherweight Antonio Escalante, junior middleweight Austin Trout and heavyweight David Rodriguez all with dreams of becoming world champion. Juarez featherweight Mickey Roman started strong in his pro career and while he pestered Escalante enough to earn respect in their February match, he failed to get a win and is nowhere near a title shot. <br />And there are others who hope to make their mark in the rough and tumble world of professional boxing. <br />Lurking in the background (but maybe not for much longer) is El Paso junior middleweight Abie Han. The 25-year-old could very well be the top prospect to come out of this area in many years. <br />Han turned pro in 2007 and dedicated himself to boxing, which for him has turned out to be the right move. <br />One look at Han in the gym or in a real fight and he stands out right away because of the energy and fury he puts into his craft. <br />Han is a heavy-handed punching machine, who has scored nine knockouts in his 10 fights. Most recently, he discarded of 21-fight veteran Jose Gonzalez, who is not so easy to dispatch of. Gonzalez had been stopped just once before and that came late in a fight against Ronald Hearns. Han took out Gonzalez in less than three full rounds. <br />Gonzalez had also given respectable junior middleweights Carson Jones and Joaquin Zamora plenty of fits.<br />So for Han to handle Gonzalez like he did, says a lot about the fiercely competitive Han. <br />Han has shown the ability to take on tough fighters early in his career. In his fourth pro fight, he took on and beat unbeaten Ibahiem King by decision. <br />Han has had the advantage of getting quality sparring in the Borderland. He has routinely spars with the Las Cruces duo of Trout and Siju Shabazz. <br />But there was one sparring session that has stuck out in my mind. Several months ago, he sparred with the 18-2-1 Zamora in Las Cruces as Zamora was prepping for a fight. Han outworked and frustrated a determined Zamora during a sparring session. <br />That was my first insight into the promise that Han had as a professional. <br />Han’s pro career will continue to depend on his development both offensively and defensively and also on whether he can take a big punch he faces an opponent who is equal. <br />But Han has very good boxing skills, carries heavy hands and unquestionably a very exciting fighter due to his aggressive style. <br />And it appears Han is willing and able to meet a big challenge in front of him and he is slated to take on former world title challenger Jose “Shibata” Flores in Phoenix on July 17. Flores hasn’t fought much in recent years, but if he has anything left, could give Han a serious test. <br />So far, Han has passed every challenge presented to him, in the next year he may just become a household name not only in El Paso and the Borderland, but also around the country. <br /><br />Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; (915) 546-6374Felixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-90105260842698873092010-05-09T19:16:00.000-07:002010-05-09T21:30:51.779-07:00Baseball/Softball matchups, prepsState Tournaments<br />Baseball<br />May 13-15<br />Class 3A<br />Thursday<br />No. 1 Sandia Prep vs. No. 9 Hope Christian, 11 a.m., St. Pius HS<br />No. 6 Lovington vs. No. 4 St. Mike's, 2 p.m., St. Pius HS<br />No. 3 Cobre vs. No. 11 Raton, 11 a.m, Rio Rancho HS<br />No. 10 Ruidoso vs. No. 2 Bloomfield, 2 p.m., Rio Rancho HS<br /><br />Class 4A<br />Thursday<br />No. 1 Piedra Vista vs. No. 8 Silver, 11 a.m., Sandia HS<br />No. 5 Volcano Vista vs. No. 13 St. Pius, 2 p.m. Sandia HS<br />No. 3 Moriarty vs. No. 6 Academy, 11 a.m., La Cueva HS<br />No. 7 Belen vs. No. 2 Farmington, 2 p.m., La Cueva<br /><br />Class 5A<br />Thursday<br />No. 1 La Cueva vs. No. 8 Mayfield, 11 a.m., Eldorado HS<br />No. 4 Onate vs. No. 5 Carlsbad, 2 p.m., Eldorado HS<br />No. 3 Eldorado vs. No. 6 Cibola, 11 a.m., Lobo Field<br />No. 10 Hobbs vs. No. 2 Rio Rancho, 2 p.m., Lobo Field<br /><br />Softball<br />Class 5A<br />Friday<br />No. 1 La Cueva vs. No. 16 Gadsden, 8 a.m., Field of Dreams<br />No. 8 Los Lunas vs. No. 9 Mayfield, 8 a.m., Field of Dreams<br />No. 12 Manzano vs. No. 5 Carlsbad, 8 a.m., Field of Dreams<br />No. 4 Cibola vs. No. 13 Hobbs, 8 a.m., Field of Dreams<br />No. 14 Albuquerque High vs. No. 3 Las Cruces High, 8 a.m., Maag<br />No. 11 Valley vs. No. 6 Onate, 8 a.m. Maag Park<br />No. 7 Sandia vs. No. 10 Gallup, 8 a.m., Maag Park<br />No. 2 Rio Rancho vs. No. 15 Eldorado, 8 a.m. <br /><br />Class 4A<br />Friday<br />No. 1 Piedra Vista vs. No. 16 Bernalillo, 10 a.m., Field of Dreams<br />No. 8 Los Alamos vs. No. 9 St. Pius, 10 a.m., Field of Dreams<br />No. 5 Moriarty vs. No. 12 Espanola, 10 a.m., Field of Dreams<br />No. 4 Artesia vs. No. 13 Aztec, 10 a.m., Field of Dreams<br />No. 3 Silver vs. No. 14 Roswell, Maag Park<br />No. 6 Kirtland Central vs. No. 11 Del Norte, Maag Park<br />No. 7 Farmington vs. No. 10 Deming, Maag Park<br />No. 2 Volcano Vista vs. No. 15 Valencia, Maag Park<br /><br />Class 3A<br />Friday<br />No. 1 Bloomfield vs. No. 16 Socorro, noon, Field of Dreams<br />No. 8 Lovington vs. No. 9 Sandia Prep, noon, Field of Dreams<br />No. 5 Pojoaque vs. No. 12 Dexter, noon, Field of Dreams<br />No. 4 Cobre vs. No. 13 Hope Christian, Noon, Field of Dreams<br />No. 3 Portales vs. No. 14 W. Las Vegas, noon, Maag Park<br />No. 6 Miyamura vs. No. 11 St. Mike's, noon, Maag Park<br />No. 7 Laguna Acoma vs. No. 10 Hatch Valley, noon, Maag Park<br />No. 2 Raton vs. No. 15 Wingate, noon, Maag ParkFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-35076676969866258532010-05-07T22:07:00.000-07:002010-05-07T22:12:44.328-07:00Cuban light heavyweight impressiveI was in attendace at Friday's (May 7) light heavyweight bout between Yordanis Despaigne and Richard Hall at Isleta Casino and Resort near Albuquerque.<br /><br />Despaigne entered Friday's fight with just five pro fights versus Hall's 36 fights and 29 wins. <br /><br />But Despaigne, who had more than 400 amateur fights and is a former Olympian, won 100-90 on all three scorecards. <br /><br />Despaigne is an up and comer with a good all around skill set. He isn't a household name yet, but give hime another 12-18 months and don't be shocked to see him fighting for a world title. <br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-34918735304930043072010-05-07T08:00:00.000-07:002010-05-07T08:03:48.091-07:00Abie Han wins againEl Paso junior middleweight Abie Han, who trains in Las Cruces, defeated Jose Gonzalez via third-round knockout Thursday night in Dallas, Texas. Han is unbeaten and beaten a solid veteran in Gonzalez, who had a 13-7 record entering Thursday's fight and who had fought several tough fighters.<br /><br />- FelixFelixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2192589196130928395.post-3621711634667430042010-05-07T06:27:00.000-07:002010-05-07T08:00:24.105-07:00Boxing Story, May 7Despaigne eager for challenge against veteran Hall <br />By Felix Chavez<br />Tonight at Isleta Casino and Resort, just south of Albuquerque, former Cuban amateur star Yorandis Despaigne will undoubtedly face his biggest test as a pro when he faces former world title challenger Richard Hall in a scheduled 10-round light heavyweight fight. <br />The bout is the main event of ESPN's "Friday Night Fight Series" and can be seen live on ESPN2 at 10 p.m ET / 8 p.m. MT. There are seven other bouts on the card.<br />The 30-year-old Despaigne is a perfect 5-0 with four knockouts in his career, while the 38-year-old Hall is the owner of 29 wins and seven losses. Despaigne just turned pro last May. <br />"I am eager to take on the best," Despaigne said. "I was excited to get this fight when I heard it might happen. I'll get in there, take my time and see how things go. I'll make adjustments as the fight goes on. I expect a tough fight."<br />While Despaigne has nowhere near the pro pedigree as Hall, he seemed confident, while respectful of his opponent. Hall has faced the likes of Julian Letterlough, Roy Jones Jr. and Dariusz Michalczewski. <br />But while Despaigne has yet to face a big-time opponent, his amateur career was an impressive one. He fought in the Olympics and other international competitions. He fought the likes of Tomas Adamek, Andre Dirrell and Jean Pascal in his career. <br />"While it's not the pros, I do believe that the amateur experience will help me," said Despaigne, who started boxing when he was 11 and who owns four knockouts as a pro. "I've always wanted to be a pro. I just want the chance to showcase my skills and I'll take on whoever gives me a chance."<br />Cuba has had is fair share of solid pro and amateur fighters over the years. But while Despaigne said he has a great deal of respect for all of the fop fighters, his favorite remains heavyweight Teofilo Stevenson, who won three Olympic Gold Medals. <br />Despaigne is part of a current crop of Cuban fighters, who are garnering plenty of world wide attention. <br />Featherweight Yurokis Gamboa is unbeaten in 18 fights, super bantamweight Guillermo Rigondeaux is an up and comer as is unbeaten junior middleweight Erislandy Lara. <br />"Fight fans should be ready to see some great young Cuban fighters do well," Despaigne said. "I'm fortunate to get television exposure against Richard Hall and fans will enjoy watching all of us. We work hard and have good skills."Felixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02315743087596273761noreply@blogger.com0