Rio Rancho Chamber hosts Golf Classic

SANTA ANA PUEBLO — It was bright, sunny and a perfect day for golf on Aug. 9 as Rio Rancho’s golfers took to the links at Santa Ana Golf Club for the Rio Rancho Open Golf Classic, the state’s second-largest golf tournament, according to event hosts, Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“Under the leadership of Jerry Schalow, president and CEO of the Rio Rancho Chamber of Commerce, the tournament was established to raise funds for Chamber-affiliated nonprofits,” said Kym Moore, member services and event management coordinator for the Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce in an email.

The tournament was well attended, according to Moore, and saw 48 teams of four people each — equaling 192 golfers — come out to participate.

“As the second largest golf tournament in the state, this sold-out event is a must-attend for golfers seeking a fun and competitive experience,” said Moore.

This year’s Rio Rancho Open Golf Classic winner was team Live Roadshow 505, which consisted of four members: Sami Rasheed, Kyle Wilson, Jeremiah Bayles and Gilbert Ramirez.

The Rio Rancho Open occurs annually and always at the Santa Ana Golf Club, which Moore said will hopefully remain a partnership for years to come.

“Held at the renowned Santa Ana Golf [Club], this tournament offers an unforgettable experience at one of the Sothwest’s most celebrated golf facilities,” she said.

Attending the event was Mayor Gregg Hull and various Rio Rancho civic and business leaders, some of whom paid to decorate and work a vendor tent, including the Rio Rancho Observer.

At the end of the afternoon festivities, awards were given out to the top golfer and the best vendor tent.

The winner for Best Tent went to New Mexico Operations NMO managed by Honeywell FM&T.