WEST MAUI — Just at the age of 14, Christopher Salem of Napili is already a bright, rising star here on the West Side. Home schooled by parents Chris and Chea Salem through the sixth grade and then studying with the Hawaii Technology Academy before enrolling at Maui Preparatory Academy this year, young Christopher continues to shine in all aspects of his life.

Christopher maintains a 4.0 grade point average at Maui Prep, is involved in various community service projects, has become an accomplished piano player, and excels in various athletic endeavors, including basketball, stand up paddling, surfing, karate and particularly golf.

Guided by several West Side resort golf professionals and offered the opportunity to play the pristine courses at Kaanapali and Kapalua, Chris has blossomed into one of Maui and Hawaii’s top junior golfers.

He recently shot a 73 at Kapalua’s Bay Course and averages 77 to earn high rankings in Hawaii Junior Golf, Maui Junior Golf, and U.S. Kids lists.

Salem credits his parents, coaches, and golf professionals in his development into a talented player. He credits Joel Navarro, Chris Armanini and Ben Hongo in particular for his ascension on the links thus far.

In his desire to live a fulfilling and diverse life, Christopher has always desired a curriculum that includes academics but also focuses on athletics and the arts.

To this end he has maintained a deep interest in math and history in the classroom, sports on the courts and on the courses, and also a deep appreciation of music arts.

Under the guidance of Maui Prep Music Arts Instructor Vania Jerome, Salem has become an accomplished piano virtuoso.

He is also an accomplished martial artist. Practicing at the Lahaina Dojo of the Japan Karate Shotokai — a traditional style of the arts — Chris earned the rank of Shodan, or first-degree black belt, at the age of nine after four years of consistent practice in the program.

He credits his mom and dad for their guidance and support throughout his life, and he appreciates his teacher, Ray Mohrman, for his guidance in recent years.

“There is so much positivity with all of the teachers and coaches in this community. All of the sports programs and educational opportunities create such a positive environment to learn and grow in. It’s all pretty spectacular,” Salem concluded.