Rio Rancho is Making News
Rio Rancho Scores Big - State Leader in Youth Sports Tournaments
The New Mexico Activities Association selected Rio Rancho to host the 2006-2007 state cross country championships and the state wrestling championships in Rio Rancho, New Mexico's fastest-growing city.
The cross country tournament is expected to bring together 700-800 runners, 150 coaches and 4,000 to 6,000 fans in November, 2006. "We have the facilities to accommodate the meet, we have great parking, and we offer a spectator-friendly course," said Rio Rancho boys cross country coach Larry Chavez, who helped bring the tournament to the city.
The wrestling tournaments will be held in Rio Rancho's new Events Center in February 2007, fueling Rio Rancho's economy as athletes, coaches and fans fill up Rio Rancho hotels and patronize local restaurants and businesses in the City of Vision.
Visit the Rio Rancho photo
gallery.
High-resolution photos are available upon request.
Story Ideas
Santa Ana Star Center
The Santa Ana Star Center is a major component of the City of Rio Rancho's new master planned downtown encompassing 160 acres. The facility features 26 luxury suites, 500 club seats, VIP lounge, club lounge and 4 club suites. Central hockey league games will feature the home town team: New Mexico's Scorpions. The International Coliseums Company is also developing 25 acres of retail and entertainment located adjacent to the events center. Ground breaking began June 14, 2005 with a Fall 2006 opening scheduled.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
The world's largest balloon fiesta; 700 colorful balloons rise into a gorgeous blue sky, framed by the Sandia Mountains. Mass ascensions, balloon glows, special shapes, and more. (Every October)
Pork 'n Brew Barbeque State Championship
Fully sanctioned by Kansas City Barbeque Society, the BBQ Cookoff will feature a carnival, live music, and food of course! Call (505) 891-5015 or (888) 746-7262 for more information. (Every March)
History Tells a Living Story in Rio Rancho
Rio Rancho is a special place where history and culture blends with an emerging modern city. Located just north of Albuquerque, Rio Rancho is the friendliest and fastest growing city in New Mexico. At an elevation of 5,290 feet, the area enjoys a mild four-season climate and offers a central location that puts New Mexico's enchantment within affordable reach.
Rio Rancho offers an array of nearby attractions and outdoor adventures where high desert mesas frame glorious southwestern sunsets famous among artists and photographers alike. Visitors can explore Native American and Hispanic villages, in addition to visiting museums devoted to vintage automobiles, and the newest events arena in New Mexico (opening Fall 2006 and home to the Scorpions hockey team). Outdoor enthusiasts can ski in the morning and golf or bicycle in the afternoon. Rio Rancho also hosts regional and national sports tournaments at the city's 78-acre sports complex.
Media Inquires Welcome!
The Rio Rancho Convention and Visitors Bureau welcomes media inquiries and hosts travel writers on FAM tours. For more information, contact Judi Snow at (888) 746-7262 or e-mail media@RioRanchoNM.org.
