Zambia is more than a stone's throw from Albuquerque.
That distance didn't stop senior Madalitso Muthiya from making the trip to join the UNM men's golf team. It didn't hurt that there were some incentives as well.
"New Mexico has good weather, good facilities and they also gave me a good scholarship," Muthiya said.
Born in Lusaka, Zambia, in 1983, Muthiya has adjusted to life as a New Mexican well enough to become one of UNM's top golfers.
Raised in Zambia through high school, Muthiya never had a real golf lesson or coach until he came to UNM in 2001. Despite the lack of a coach or lessons, Muthiya worked hard to become the best golfer he could on his own. Before moving to the United States, he was the No. 1-ranked junior player in Zambia.
"It was mainly the love of the game and also my father," said Muthiya of why he became a golfer.
Muthiya said his choice to attend UNM had to do with his future in golf.
"My goal has always been to play professionally," he said. "UNM was conducive to that."
When he arrived here, Muthiya immediately made a splash on the team. As a freshman in his second collegiate tournament, Muthiya finished tied for second. He also had another top-10 finish that season at the MWC Championships.
He has been a key producer for UNM ever since, with multiple top-15 finishes.
"His dad prepared him well," head coach Glen Millican said. "He brings a lot of things to the team. He has a great demeanor."
Muthiya said his relationship with Millican is another reason for his success.
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"He lets you be free, work on your own game and practice the way you want," Muthiya said. "It's a good player-coach relationship, but it's also a friendship."
Millican also talks with pride about his friendship with Muthiya.
"I've gotten along with him real well," Millican said. "I've really enjoyed being around him."
Muthiya's focus is on this year's NCAA Championship tournament. If his last tournament's performance is any testament, he should have plenty of momentum going into his final collegiate tournament.
In the first round of the NCAA West Regionals, he led UNM with a 2-under-par 69. He finished the tournament at even par and in the top-10.
Because it's his senior year, Muthiya said the NCAA Championship is the most important tournament yet, not only for him but also for the team. The Lobos are on their way to their fourth-straight national tournament appearance.
"In every way it's important," Muthiya said. "In the past we haven't fared too well, but this team is good and we can do really well."
Muthiya said he's not putting any limits on what he might be capable of in his final tournament.
"I think I've got every chance to win the championship, just as much as everyone else. I just have to play my own game and focus on what I have to do," he said.
