New Mexico’s archery sensation Claire Ortega. Courtesy/NMG 

New Mexico’s tennis star Ronin Reznik. Courtesy/NMG

NMG News:

ALBUQUERQUE — The New Mexico Games (NMG) has announced the 2025 Athletes of the Year, honoring exceptional achievements and inspiring stories in the world of sports. The 2025 Athletes of the Year include archery sensation Claire Ortega and tennis star Ronin Reznik, each embodying the spirit of excellence and perseverance. 

For Ortega, archery has been a lifelong passion. From shooting plastic toy bows as a child to earning gold medals at the state level, her dedication and growth in the sport are nothing short of inspiring. She began formal training at age 6 and received her first compound bow at 12. Since then, Ortega has achieved multiple gold medals, including wins in the New Mexico Games, New Mexico State JOAD Indoor Championship, State Outdoor Championship, and the New Mexico Open. Ortega has also competed in the USA Archery Team Trials, standing out on the national stage. 

“Claire’s focus, generosity and perseverance make her a standout athlete in every sense,” said Megan McMillan, spokesperson for the New Mexico Games. “She is not only a champion on the range but an incredible ambassador for the sport of archery.”

Reznik has been swinging a racquet since he was 5 years old, and his passion for the game has grown stronger with each passing year. Through hard work and consistency, he’s become one of New Mexico’s top young tennis players. Reznik has competed in numerous regional tournaments, earning runner-up finishes in the Tommy Barber, Colorado APEX, Westside Challenger, and ABQ Metro, while also becoming both district and state champion for his high school team.  

Boys Tennis Head Coach Michael Tran at La Cueva High School said, “Ronin is a rising sophomore on my La Cueva High School tennis team. He’s a student at heart with incredible passion for tennis. We know him for his grit, focus, and steady improvement on and off the court. Although he’s a quiet competitor with a strong work ethic, Ronin brings consistency and determination to every practice and match. His coachability, strategic mindset, and willingness to grind make him a valuable part of the team’s future and a player to watch in the seasons ahead.”

About the New Mexico Games

Established in 1989, the New Mexico Games is the state’s largest and longest-running amateur sports festival. Hosting more than 3,500 athletes across 15+ Olympic-style sports from May through November, the Games promote statewide participation and athletic excellence. Recognized by the United States Olympic Committee, New Mexico Games champions are eligible to compete in the State Games of America, held every two years. For more information, visit www.newmexicogames.org or contact info@newmexicogames.org.