RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The recently established Fifty East Elite, stretching from Rancho Cordova to El Dorado Hills along the Highway 50 corridor, has been turning heads since its inception in June 2023. This dynamic group continues to make waves on the national stage with remarkable achievements in various track and field events.

Coach Gruver (middle) and athletes Dru O’Neel and Charlie Ramirez-Oliva (left and right, respectively) at the Junior Olympic Qualifier, November 2023. Photo by Kevin Murray

In July 2023, individual qualifiers from Fifty East Elite proudly represented the region at the University of Oregon for the USATF Junior Olympic Track and Field Championships. Their success carried into the fall season as they ventured to Kentucky for the USATF Junior Olympic Cross Country Championships, showcasing their endurance and determination.

Coach Gruver (middle) and athletes Christian Petinaud and Trey Lofton (left and right, respectively) at Army West Point, January 2024. Photo by Kevin Murray

The excitement doesn’t stop there, as Fifty East Elite is gearing up for the USATF Junior Olympic Indoor Championships in Kentucky in March 2024, aiming to further showcase their skills on the national stage. The team will then set their sights on the July 2024 USATF Junior Olympic Track and Field Championship in Texas, ready to compete at the highest level.

Over the past months, the team has also made a mark during the Indoor Track and Field season, competing in prestigious locations such as Boston, New York, and Washington. Comprising talented athletes from local high schools like Cordova High School, Folsom High School, and Vista Del Lago High School, the group has not only elevated their performance, but also lowered personal best records.

As president and head coach of the Fifty East Elite, I’m excited to witness the growth of this talent-filled organization. Fifty East Elite provides these athletes the opportunity to see the national stage of cross country and track and field.  It’s been an absolute blast, and the future is gleaming for Fifty East Elite. As these elite athletes continue to shine under our guidance, the community eagerly anticipates the continued success and growth of Fifty East Elite along the Highway 50 corridor.

Coach Gruver (selfie) with, left to right, athletes Jeff Deacon, Christian Petinaud, Russell Stevens, and Ricky Murray in Spokane, Washington, January, 2024. Photo by Josh Gruver