Sports Shorts: Riverside Schools Running Into the Weekend

Riverside Track Programs Head to Bay Area for Prestigious Mike Fanelli Classic

Both of Riverside's Division I track and field programs will be making the journey to the Bay Area this weekend to compete in the 16th annual Mike Fanelli Track Classic. California Baptist University and UC Riverside athletes will test themselves against loaded fields at the prestigious distance-focused meet, which has become known nationwide for producing fast times under ideal weather conditions.

The event, formerly known as the San Francisco State Distance Carnival before being renamed in 2019 to honor track and field historian and three-time USA National Team Coach Mike Fanelli, has grown significantly since its 2008 inception. For CBU and UCR, this represents a valuable opportunity for their distance specialists to post qualifying marks against top-tier competition as the outdoor season builds momentum.

15th Annual "Raincross Tradition" Track Meet

The historic Riverside City Track and Field Championships returns for its 15th revival on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Martin Luther King High School. Known as the "Raincross Tradition," this prestigious local competition brings together top athletes from across Riverside's educational landscape.

The meet features competitors from large schools, including Arlington, North, ML King, Poly, and Ramona, alongside smaller institutions like Notre Dame, Woodcrest Christian, and Sherman Indian. Athletes will vie for custom patches and medals across all varsity events.

"We're excited to continue this tradition that highlights our city's athletic talent," says Meet Director John Corona. "After an 18-year absence, we brought this meet back in 2010, and it's been a seasonal highlight ever since."

Field events begin at 8:00 AM with running events following at 9:00 AM. The competition will take place on King High School's eight-lane all-weather track within its 5,000-seat stadium.

The meet also features special Unified Sports events, including the Charles Leathers 100 meters, honoring the legacy of the former North High coach and special education teacher.

Spectators can attend for $8 general admission, and $5 for students and seniors, while children under 12 enter free. Food and beverages will be available throughout the event. Martin Luther King High School is at 9301 Wood Road.