RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - In the latest expansion of the Track and Field facilities at Cordova High School, the City of Rancho Cordova passed a resolution authorizing the City Manager and staff to enter into discussions with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District about the addition of a steeplechase pit and associated equipment. The project is expected to be completed in the fall. 

The steeplechase pit will be the first at a high school in the state of California, according to Rancho Cordova Track Club Executive Director Josh Gruver.

“The goal is to get more kids active and learning while they are involved in these incredible events of track and field. Every kid has the potential to perform and succeed here,” Gruver said. “Whether you throw something like a shot, discus, javelin, or hammer; or jump high or long, pole vault, or run distances, sprints, relays or hurdles; there is something here for every kid. And when they do well here, they also improve their outcomes in the classroom and in life.”

Two recent events (The Pacific Association Meet and Golden West) drew more than 3,000 kids combined to Rancho Cordova over two weekends, Gruver said. Cordova High School has also hosted United States Track and Field events.

These improvements and events followed a city investment last year for a rebuilt and enlarged shot put throwing area, and a new hammer & discus throwing cage.

“This is one of the most exciting developments of the last decade, having a local track club to offer these opportunities to our youth,” said Rancho Cordova City Councilmember David Sander. “When you think about this opportunity, combined with a tremendous sports legacy of Cordova High School and the new and soon to be open Rancho Cordova youth center, the future for kids in our community is incredibly bright.”

During his off time from the city council, Sander is a track and field throwing coach at Jesuit High School and the Rancho Cordova Track Club.