With only a couple of meets left before the state championships on May 15–16, Artesia coach Adrian Olivas treated last weekend’s trip to Los Alamos like a state rehearsal. The Bulldogs made the six-hour drive the night before and stayed in a hotel, mirroring the routine they’ll follow when they return for the finals.
The boys dominated the meet, winning 129–97 over Los Alamos in a 14‑team field. The girls finished second.
Olivas said the weekend produced several key qualifiers. Colt Moziejko punched his ticket in the pole vault, Cael Houghtaling qualified in the high jump, and Noah Beardsley earned his spot in the 100. The Bulldogs also posted improved times in the 4×100, 4×200, and 4×400 relays.
“We used this meet as if you’ve already qualified for state,” Olivas said. “Or you’re really close to qualifying for state.”
Artesia entered the meet with 21 boys and seven girls already qualified. Olivas said he hopes to add more, especially on the girls’ side, before the deadline.
The Bulldogs have been consistent all season. The boys won the Hobbs meet and finished second in Clovis. The girls have placed in the top four or five at every meet they’ve entered.
Field events have been the backbone of the program. The boys carry depth in the long jump, triple jump and javelin. On the girls’ side, shot putter Harper Murray has thrown a personal‑best 38 feet, with reigning state champion Brooklyn Ivans close behind and teammate Peyton Barela closing the gap.
Their competition doesn’t stop on meet day.
“In the weight room, they’re trying to do more reps and more weight than each other,” Olivas said. “They’re all trying to get better, and they’re competing with each other. That’s the best thing you can have.”
Olivas said having three strong throwers pushes the entire group and has helped Murray elevate her performance. He is also working to transition all of his shot putters to throwing the discus.
The team did receive one setback. Sprinter and relay runner Bryce Parra, who was expected to return this season, will not compete due to a shoulder injury suffered during football. Olivas said Parra is ahead of schedule in his recovery and continues to support the team at practice.
With the state meet a week away, Olivas said the Bulldogs are shifting fully into championship mode. Last year, the boys finished second at state.
jtkeith can be reached at 575-420-0061, or on X@JTKEITH1.