The New Mexico high school golf scene is buzzing with excitement as the 4A State Championship approaches, and all eyes are on Belen’s Rylee Eagle Salome. Having recently clinched the district title with ease, Salome is set to continue her dominance at the upcoming state tournament in Farmington, aiming for an unprecedented fourth straight state Golf Championship.
Salome’s Road to History
Salome, a standout athlete for Belen High School, is on the verge of making history in New Mexico high school golf. With a remarkable run of three consecutive state titles, she now stands poised to tie the record for most state championships, currently held by New Mexico golf legends January Romero and Edie Murdoch.
As Salome prepares for her final high school tournament, she reflects on the journey that has brought her to this point. “It’s a little bit sad but also just exciting for the next chapter,” she shared while practicing at Tierra Del Sol Golf Club. That next chapter takes her to New Mexico State University, where she will continue her golfing career as an Aggie. But before she moves on to collegiate golf, Salome is focused on cementing her legacy with a fourth consecutive state title.
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A Strong Season and High Expectations
Salome’s preparation for the state tournament has been smooth, with improvements to her game, including hitting the ball further than ever before. “I feel like I’m playing pretty well, getting more distance than in the off-season, which has really helped,” she explained. Despite this, her coach Donald Marquez, while confident in her abilities, remains cautious. “Anything can happen, but she’s obviously the clear-cut favorite.”
Salome’s impressive form this season includes a personal best 64 at the Links at Sierra Blanca just two weeks ago, and she won the state title by a commanding nine-stroke margin last year. “Riley wants to prove a point,” Marquez said. “She’s the most competitive girl golfer that I’ve ever seen.”
Belen’s Other Athletes to Watch
While Salome has dominated the spotlight, she’s not the only athlete representing Belen in state competitions. Belen’s Eli O’Canna and Jadarose Wright will both compete individually at the state golf championship. Wright, a senior, is also preparing for the state track and field championships next week. “Jada is amazing,” said Marquez. “She goes to both practices. She doesn’t complain, she just comes and works hard.”
Meanwhile, Belen’s boys’ team, although not qualified for the state tournament, has shown improvement under the leadership of O’Canna and Mark Gabaldon.
Los Lunas Golf Team Preview
At Los Lunas, the Tigers are adjusting to life without standout golfer Jonah Utash, who helped lead the team to a fifth-place finish at the 2024 5A State Championship but chose not to participate in golf this season. However, the team remains optimistic, especially with rising star Tyler Stephenson leading the charge.
Stephenson, who is only in his second year of high school, has earned medalist honors and is already a major presence in the 5A state competition. “I’ve been playing with kids older than me all my life, in any sport,” Stephenson said. “It feels normal to me.”
First-year coach Ray Coleman, who also leads the Valencia golf team, is impressed with his young athletes’ potential. Tyler Stephenson’s performance, including a round of 79 at Black Mesa Golf Club, has been a key highlight of the season.
Valencia’s Rising Talent
Valencia’s golf program is filled with potential, with sophomores Jesse Chavez and Raymond Martinez showing promise in their early years. Both players are newcomers to the sport but have quickly developed a strong passion for golf. Martinez expressed, “I just like the sport. I just wanted to learn everything about it.”
Although the Valencia boys’ team did not field a full roster this season, the program is focused on growth and development. Similarly, the girls’ teams at both Valencia and Los Lunas have been playing a junior varsity schedule, looking to build for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the 4A and 5A State Golf Championships held?
The 4A State Championship will take place May 12-13 at Pinon Hills Country Club in Farmington.
Who is the favorite to win the 4A State Championship?
Rylee Salome from Belen is the clear favorite, aiming for her fourth straight state title.
Which other golfers are competing in the state tournament?
Eli O’Canna and Jadarose Wright from Belen will also be competing individually at the state championship.
Who holds the record for most state golf championships in New Mexico?
January Romero and Edie Murdoch share the record with four state championships each.
Where is the 5A State Championship being held?
The 5A State Championship will be held at San Juan Country Club in Farmington.
What is Tyler Stephenson’s role on the Los Lunas golf team?
Tyler Stephenson, a standout golfer, is leading the Los Lunas boys’ team and earned medalist honors at the district championship.
Is Jonah Utash playing golf this season?
No, Jonah Utash, who took third place in the 2024 5A State Championship, opted not to play high school golf this season.
How are the Valencia and Los Lunas teams developing?
Both teams have a mix of youth and potential, with a focus on growth. Valencia has a few standout players, including sophomores Jesse Chavez and Raymond Martinez.
How did Salome perform in the 4A state preview event?
Salome did not win the 4A state preview but used the event to learn about the course and improve her game for the state tournament.
What are the main goals for Belen’s golf team?
Belen is focused on Salome’s pursuit of her fourth straight state title, as well as the development of other athletes like O’Canna and Wright.
Conclusion
As the state championships approach, the excitement around Rylee Salome’s pursuit of a historic fourth consecutive 4A State Championship is palpable. With a strong season behind her and a fierce determination to prove herself, Salome is ready to add to her impressive legacy.
Whether it’s Salome’s final victory or the rise of young talents like Tyler Stephenson and the promising golfers from Valencia and Los Lunas, the 2025 state golf championships are sure to deliver thrilling moments and showcase the future of New Mexico’s high school golf scene.