Here's a preseason Top 5 ranking for Class 5A Football
1 - La Cueva
2 - Mayfield
3 - Las Cruces
4 - Clovis
5 - Manzano, Sandia (tie)
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?
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.
- Felix
Monday, June 21, 2010
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Julio 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.
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.
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.
What are you thoughts on either fighter, but especially Chavez Jr.
- Felix
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.
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.
What are you thoughts on either fighter, but especially Chavez Jr.
- Felix
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Continuing series on top hispanic jockeys
One 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.
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.
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.
- Felix
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.
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.
- Felix
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Siju Shabazz wins regional
Las 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.
With the win, Shabazz advances to the USA Nationals next month in Colorado.
- Felix
With the win, Shabazz advances to the USA Nationals next month in Colorado.
- Felix
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Joel Garcia boxing story
Up and coming Garcia has high hopes
By Felix Chavez
El Paso Times
EL PASO — El Paso has been home to many solid lower weight fighters over the years, including Fernie Morales, Juan Lazcano and Antonio Escalante.
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.
“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.”
Garcia’s trainer Louis Aguilar said Garcia handled himself well in the pro debut, particularly since it was in his opponent’s hometown.
“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.”
Garcia is currently fighting between 108 and 112 pounds, but Aguilar said he could fighter at a higher weight down the road.
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.
“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.”
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.
“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.”
Garcia said his goal is to win a world title one day, but he’s aware of the time and preparation it will take.
“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.”
Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; (915) 546-6374
By Felix Chavez
El Paso Times
EL PASO — El Paso has been home to many solid lower weight fighters over the years, including Fernie Morales, Juan Lazcano and Antonio Escalante.
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.
“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.”
Garcia’s trainer Louis Aguilar said Garcia handled himself well in the pro debut, particularly since it was in his opponent’s hometown.
“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.”
Garcia is currently fighting between 108 and 112 pounds, but Aguilar said he could fighter at a higher weight down the road.
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.
“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.”
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.
“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.”
Garcia said his goal is to win a world title one day, but he’s aware of the time and preparation it will take.
“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.”
Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; (915) 546-6374
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
New Onate coaches
Apparently, 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.
- Felix
- Felix
Monday, June 7, 2010
Another Hispanic Jockey Post
I 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.
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.
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.
Bejarano has won several big races including the San Felipe Stakes, the Blue Grass Stakes and the Breeders' Cup Distaff.
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.
- Felix
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.
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.
Bejarano has won several big races including the San Felipe Stakes, the Blue Grass Stakes and the Breeders' Cup Distaff.
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.
- Felix
Sunday, June 6, 2010
More Top Hispanic Jockeys
Today 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.
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.
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.
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.
- Felix
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.
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.
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.
- Felix
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Top Hispanic jockeys
Today 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.
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.
Baeza rode so many great horses, but among the best he rode were Ack Ack, Dr. Fager and Buckpasser.
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.
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.
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.
Any thoughts?
- Felix
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.
Baeza rode so many great horses, but among the best he rode were Ack Ack, Dr. Fager and Buckpasser.
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.
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.
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.
Any thoughts?
- Felix
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Ring Magazine on Austin Trout
Las 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.
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.
The junior middleweight division features standouts Alfred Angulo, Sergio Martinez and Paul Williams.
- Felix
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.
The junior middleweight division features standouts Alfred Angulo, Sergio Martinez and Paul Williams.
- Felix
Monday, May 31, 2010
Former local prep baseball players
Congrats 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.
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.
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.
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.
- Felix
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.
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.
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.
- Felix
Sunday, May 30, 2010
All-State Baseball, 3A, 4A, 5A
Class 3A State Baseball teams
First Team
Class 3A
Pitchers
Matt Forsyth, Hope Christian
Colin Friedman, St. Mike's
Jared Gallegos, West Las Vegas
Alex Garcia, Bloomfield
Aaron Ordonez, Cobre
Michael Hernandez, St. Mike's
Outfielders
Matthew Miramontes, Bloomfield
Irving Gomez, Cobre
Catcher
Shane Harmishige, St. Mike's
First Base
Regan Ramos, Cobre
Joel Vega, Hope Christian
Second Base
Nick Nelson, Sandia Prep
Shorstop
Jay Dominguez, Cobre
Michael Eaton, Sandia Prep
Third Base
Aaron Ordonez, Cobre
DH
George Marquez, Raton
Second Team
Pitchers
Alex Kyriakis, Sandia Prep
Michael Chavez, Socorro
Zach Shark, Miyamura
Blake Washburn, Raton
Brian Detrick, Bloomfield
Nick Aragon, Robertson
Gene Chavez, SF Indian
Outfielders
Roberto Martinez, Sandia Prep
Andrew Castanon, Cobre
Ian Sutton, Hope Christian
Jared Gallegos, West Las Vegas
Brennan Day, Sandia Prep
Robert Martinez, Sandia Prep
Girard Martinez, Robertson
First Base
Clay Payne, Bloomfield
Second Base
Alex Garcia, Bloomfield
Charlie Savedra, Socorro
Shorstop
Nick Nelson, Sandia Prep
Michael Archibeque, Bloomfield
Third Base
Nick Aragon, Robertson
Justus Jaramillo, Socorro
Alex Houser, Sandia Prep
DH
Levi Helton
Player of the Year
Alex Garcia, Bloomfield
Coach of the Year
Frank DeHoyos
Class 4A
First Team
Pitchers
Chris Fischer, Moriarty
Jake MaCasland, Piedra Vista
Tim Bailey, Piedra Vista
Eli Freese, Farmington
Deven Nelson, Artesia
Victor Sanchez, Volcano Vista
Outfielders
Steven Contreras, Belen
Max Ruben, Moriarty
Shilo McCall, Piedra Vista
Shane Weedson, Piedra Vista
Steven Pilito, Artesia
Catchers
Morgan McCasland, Piedra Vista
Isaac Aragon, Moriarty
First Base
Jake McCasland, Piedra Vista
Second Base
Keaton Chancellor, Moriarty
Jacob Zunich, Silver
Shorstop
Alex Bregman, Academy
Third Base
Victor Sanchez, Volcano Vista
DH
Robbie Bell, Moriarty
Damion Lovato, Piedra Vista
Second Team
Pitchers
Kevin Piersol, St. Pius
Scott Berkebile, Los Alamos
Quentin Mansfield, Belen
Matt Holona, Belen
Dominic Moreno, Piedra Vista
Joe Chandler, Farmington
Robbie Bell, Moriarty
Jorge Venegas, Valencia
Outfielders
Brycon Campbell, Farmington
Javy Armendariz, Deming
Elliot Hanson, Academy
Lincoln Stanfield, Academy
Cody Donaghe, Artesia
Quintin Rizek, St. Pius
Catchers
Hunter Blaylock, Belen
Chris Lobato, St. Pius
First Base
Javier Sanchez, Farmington
TJ Trujillo, Volcano Vista
Second Base
Scott Wilcox, Farmington
Andre Vigil, Volcano Vista
Tanner Cooper, Piedra Vista
Shortstop
Nick Gonzales, Moriarty
Chris Weaver, Farmington
Tim Bailey, Piedra Vista
Aaron Huerta, Silver
Third Base
Chris Nunez, Goddard
DH
Nick Martinez, St. Pius
Eli Freeze, Farmington
Player of the Year
Jake McCasland, Piedra Vista
Coach of the Year
Mike Magaha, Piedra Vista
Class 5A
First Team
Pitchers
Sam Wilson, Eldorado
Josh Walker, Carlsbad
Josh McCallister, La Cueva
Roby Romero, Onate
Kaleb Nelson, Hobbs
Outfielders
Joe Sena, Rio Rancho
Sam Wilson, Eldorado
Ryan Padilla, La Cueva
Catchers
Blake Swihart, Cleveland
First Base
Nate Ross, La Cueva
Ben Matheson, Rio Rancho
Second Base
Bobby Blackstone, Eldorado
Shorstop
Kris Martinez, Rio Rancho
Third Base
Robert Gunther, Sandia
DH
Wes Koerper, Onate
Second Team
Pitchers
Brulio Hernandez, Albuquerque High
Chris Lee, Las Cruces High
Nicasio Sanchez, Sandia
Thomas Lee Mares, Manzano
Ryan Padilla, La Cueva
Angel Sanchez, Hobbs
Outfielers
Aaron Sandoval, Onate
Austin Bertola, Hobbs
Josh Walker, Rio Rancho
Catchers
Andrew Castillo, Carlsbad
Ethan McCranie, Rio Rancho
First Base
John Cachora, Onate
Kameron McLLroy, Hobbs
Second Base
Nathan Paz, Las Cruces
Shorstop
Jason Sandoval, Onate
Matt Smith, La Cueva
Matt Chavarria, Carlsbad
Third Base
Anthony Boyle, Hobbs
DH
Zach Cogan, La Cueva
Co-Player of the Year
Sam Wilson, Eldorado
Josh Walker, Rio Rancho
Coach of the Year
Jim Johns, Eldorado
First Team
Class 3A
Pitchers
Matt Forsyth, Hope Christian
Colin Friedman, St. Mike's
Jared Gallegos, West Las Vegas
Alex Garcia, Bloomfield
Aaron Ordonez, Cobre
Michael Hernandez, St. Mike's
Outfielders
Matthew Miramontes, Bloomfield
Irving Gomez, Cobre
Catcher
Shane Harmishige, St. Mike's
First Base
Regan Ramos, Cobre
Joel Vega, Hope Christian
Second Base
Nick Nelson, Sandia Prep
Shorstop
Jay Dominguez, Cobre
Michael Eaton, Sandia Prep
Third Base
Aaron Ordonez, Cobre
DH
George Marquez, Raton
Second Team
Pitchers
Alex Kyriakis, Sandia Prep
Michael Chavez, Socorro
Zach Shark, Miyamura
Blake Washburn, Raton
Brian Detrick, Bloomfield
Nick Aragon, Robertson
Gene Chavez, SF Indian
Outfielders
Roberto Martinez, Sandia Prep
Andrew Castanon, Cobre
Ian Sutton, Hope Christian
Jared Gallegos, West Las Vegas
Brennan Day, Sandia Prep
Robert Martinez, Sandia Prep
Girard Martinez, Robertson
First Base
Clay Payne, Bloomfield
Second Base
Alex Garcia, Bloomfield
Charlie Savedra, Socorro
Shorstop
Nick Nelson, Sandia Prep
Michael Archibeque, Bloomfield
Third Base
Nick Aragon, Robertson
Justus Jaramillo, Socorro
Alex Houser, Sandia Prep
DH
Levi Helton
Player of the Year
Alex Garcia, Bloomfield
Coach of the Year
Frank DeHoyos
Class 4A
First Team
Pitchers
Chris Fischer, Moriarty
Jake MaCasland, Piedra Vista
Tim Bailey, Piedra Vista
Eli Freese, Farmington
Deven Nelson, Artesia
Victor Sanchez, Volcano Vista
Outfielders
Steven Contreras, Belen
Max Ruben, Moriarty
Shilo McCall, Piedra Vista
Shane Weedson, Piedra Vista
Steven Pilito, Artesia
Catchers
Morgan McCasland, Piedra Vista
Isaac Aragon, Moriarty
First Base
Jake McCasland, Piedra Vista
Second Base
Keaton Chancellor, Moriarty
Jacob Zunich, Silver
Shorstop
Alex Bregman, Academy
Third Base
Victor Sanchez, Volcano Vista
DH
Robbie Bell, Moriarty
Damion Lovato, Piedra Vista
Second Team
Pitchers
Kevin Piersol, St. Pius
Scott Berkebile, Los Alamos
Quentin Mansfield, Belen
Matt Holona, Belen
Dominic Moreno, Piedra Vista
Joe Chandler, Farmington
Robbie Bell, Moriarty
Jorge Venegas, Valencia
Outfielders
Brycon Campbell, Farmington
Javy Armendariz, Deming
Elliot Hanson, Academy
Lincoln Stanfield, Academy
Cody Donaghe, Artesia
Quintin Rizek, St. Pius
Catchers
Hunter Blaylock, Belen
Chris Lobato, St. Pius
First Base
Javier Sanchez, Farmington
TJ Trujillo, Volcano Vista
Second Base
Scott Wilcox, Farmington
Andre Vigil, Volcano Vista
Tanner Cooper, Piedra Vista
Shortstop
Nick Gonzales, Moriarty
Chris Weaver, Farmington
Tim Bailey, Piedra Vista
Aaron Huerta, Silver
Third Base
Chris Nunez, Goddard
DH
Nick Martinez, St. Pius
Eli Freeze, Farmington
Player of the Year
Jake McCasland, Piedra Vista
Coach of the Year
Mike Magaha, Piedra Vista
Class 5A
First Team
Pitchers
Sam Wilson, Eldorado
Josh Walker, Carlsbad
Josh McCallister, La Cueva
Roby Romero, Onate
Kaleb Nelson, Hobbs
Outfielders
Joe Sena, Rio Rancho
Sam Wilson, Eldorado
Ryan Padilla, La Cueva
Catchers
Blake Swihart, Cleveland
First Base
Nate Ross, La Cueva
Ben Matheson, Rio Rancho
Second Base
Bobby Blackstone, Eldorado
Shorstop
Kris Martinez, Rio Rancho
Third Base
Robert Gunther, Sandia
DH
Wes Koerper, Onate
Second Team
Pitchers
Brulio Hernandez, Albuquerque High
Chris Lee, Las Cruces High
Nicasio Sanchez, Sandia
Thomas Lee Mares, Manzano
Ryan Padilla, La Cueva
Angel Sanchez, Hobbs
Outfielers
Aaron Sandoval, Onate
Austin Bertola, Hobbs
Josh Walker, Rio Rancho
Catchers
Andrew Castillo, Carlsbad
Ethan McCranie, Rio Rancho
First Base
John Cachora, Onate
Kameron McLLroy, Hobbs
Second Base
Nathan Paz, Las Cruces
Shorstop
Jason Sandoval, Onate
Matt Smith, La Cueva
Matt Chavarria, Carlsbad
Third Base
Anthony Boyle, Hobbs
DH
Zach Cogan, La Cueva
Co-Player of the Year
Sam Wilson, Eldorado
Josh Walker, Rio Rancho
Coach of the Year
Jim Johns, Eldorado
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Softball All-State, 4A/5A
Class 5A
1st Team
Pitcher
Kelsey Stevens, La Cueva
Alberta Medina, Las Cruces High
Catcher
Val Swedburg, Cibola
First Baseman
Jillian Navarette, Carlsbad
Second Baseman
Shelby Lucero, La Cueva
Kuuleiokealoah Vonshriltz, Las Cruces
Third Baseman
Shelby Pendley, Rio Rancho
Shortstop
Lizzy Castro Carlsbad
Outfield
Courtney Williams, Carlsbad
Alexis Dotson, Las Cruces
Stephanie Haft, La Cueva
Second Team
Pitcher
Sandra Serna, Sandia
Nicole Pendley, Rio Rancho
Catcher
Kely Munoz, Carlsbad
First Baseman
Shannon Garcia, Rio Rancho
Second Baseman
Stephanie Dunham, Rio Rancho
Third Baseman
Ty Ramirez, Carlsbad
Shortstop
Jessie Roane, Rio Rancho
Outfield
Christen Miller, Rio Rancho
Lara VanEver, Sandia
Brianna Chavez, Rio Rancho
Class 4A
1st Team
Pitcher
Karysta Donisthorpe, Piedra Vista
Katera Eltsosie, Volanco Vista
Catcher
Aurelia Sandoval, Piedra Vista
First Baseman
Rachael Ward, Piedra Vista
Second Baseman
Marissa Ellis, Piedra Vista
Third Baseman
Jordan Ensign, Piedra Vista
Shortstop
Sheasia Yazzie, Piedra Vista
Outfield
Meriel Parrish, Piedra Vista
Ashton Martinez, Farmington
Haley Thompson, Farmington
Second Team
Pitcher
Annamarie Rascon, Silver City
Naisha Nackai, Kirtland Central
Catcher
Erika Gonzales, Farmington
First Baseman
Tansi Rudder, Aztec
Second Baseman
Kylnn Beall, Farmington
Third Baseman
Shaylynn Brown, Volcano Vista
Shorstop
Robin Randall, Farmington
Outfield
Brittany Sofka, Piedra Vista
Ally Hakeem, St. Pius
Addie Woods, Aztec
1st Team
Pitcher
Kelsey Stevens, La Cueva
Alberta Medina, Las Cruces High
Catcher
Val Swedburg, Cibola
First Baseman
Jillian Navarette, Carlsbad
Second Baseman
Shelby Lucero, La Cueva
Kuuleiokealoah Vonshriltz, Las Cruces
Third Baseman
Shelby Pendley, Rio Rancho
Shortstop
Lizzy Castro Carlsbad
Outfield
Courtney Williams, Carlsbad
Alexis Dotson, Las Cruces
Stephanie Haft, La Cueva
Second Team
Pitcher
Sandra Serna, Sandia
Nicole Pendley, Rio Rancho
Catcher
Kely Munoz, Carlsbad
First Baseman
Shannon Garcia, Rio Rancho
Second Baseman
Stephanie Dunham, Rio Rancho
Third Baseman
Ty Ramirez, Carlsbad
Shortstop
Jessie Roane, Rio Rancho
Outfield
Christen Miller, Rio Rancho
Lara VanEver, Sandia
Brianna Chavez, Rio Rancho
Class 4A
1st Team
Pitcher
Karysta Donisthorpe, Piedra Vista
Katera Eltsosie, Volanco Vista
Catcher
Aurelia Sandoval, Piedra Vista
First Baseman
Rachael Ward, Piedra Vista
Second Baseman
Marissa Ellis, Piedra Vista
Third Baseman
Jordan Ensign, Piedra Vista
Shortstop
Sheasia Yazzie, Piedra Vista
Outfield
Meriel Parrish, Piedra Vista
Ashton Martinez, Farmington
Haley Thompson, Farmington
Second Team
Pitcher
Annamarie Rascon, Silver City
Naisha Nackai, Kirtland Central
Catcher
Erika Gonzales, Farmington
First Baseman
Tansi Rudder, Aztec
Second Baseman
Kylnn Beall, Farmington
Third Baseman
Shaylynn Brown, Volcano Vista
Shorstop
Robin Randall, Farmington
Outfield
Brittany Sofka, Piedra Vista
Ally Hakeem, St. Pius
Addie Woods, Aztec
Ruidoso Futurity Qualifiers
The 10 qualifiers for the June 13, 350-yard Ruidoso Futurity at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack and Casino
1. American Runaway 17.138
2. Royally Sandra 17.455
3. Fredona 17.460
4. Unanchored 17.468
5. Absolut Treasure 17.487
6. Treason 17.510
7. No Dice Special 17.513
8. Bodacious Dash 17.590
9. Legendary Express 17.601
10. Brimmin To Pass 17.606
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.
1. American Runaway 17.138
2. Royally Sandra 17.455
3. Fredona 17.460
4. Unanchored 17.468
5. Absolut Treasure 17.487
6. Treason 17.510
7. No Dice Special 17.513
8. Bodacious Dash 17.590
9. Legendary Express 17.601
10. Brimmin To Pass 17.606
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.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Boxing Book Review
Title: Hit Man The Thomas Hearns Story
Authors: Brian and Damian Hughes
Pages: 240
Price: $17.95
Publisher: Milo Books
By Felix Chavez
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.
There were plenty of big names involved, i.e. Sugar Ray Leonard, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Marvin Hagler and Larry Holmes.
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.”
For sports fans, but specially boxing fans, the biography Hearns is an important one in many ways.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; (915) 546-6374
Authors: Brian and Damian Hughes
Pages: 240
Price: $17.95
Publisher: Milo Books
By Felix Chavez
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.
There were plenty of big names involved, i.e. Sugar Ray Leonard, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Marvin Hagler and Larry Holmes.
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.”
For sports fans, but specially boxing fans, the biography Hearns is an important one in many ways.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; (915) 546-6374
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Rafael Marquez vs. Israel Vasquez
Well, 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.
- Felix
- Felix
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Abie Han vs. Shibata Flores off
Looks 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.
- Felix
- Felix
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Mine That Bird Changes Trainers
Wednesday came the news that horse trainer Chip Woolley was no longer the trainer for 2009 Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- Felix
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- Felix
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Boxing column
Adding Burke could help Escalante
By Felix Chavez
El Paso Times
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.
And a solid choice it is.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Escalante should be back in the ring soon and there are plenty of big fights that are ahead of him.
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.
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.
Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@lcsun-news.com; (915) 546-6374
By Felix Chavez
El Paso Times
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.
And a solid choice it is.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Escalante should be back in the ring soon and there are plenty of big fights that are ahead of him.
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.
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.
Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@lcsun-news.com; (915) 546-6374
Monday, May 17, 2010
Louie Burke and Antonio Escalante
Las 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.
Escalante is ranked in the top 10 by a pair of governing bodies.
- Felix
Escalante is ranked in the top 10 by a pair of governing bodies.
- Felix
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