Sam Ruthe runs tune-up workout

In February 2026, the FloTrack team caught up with young New Zealand runner Sam Ruthe in North Carolina, just five days after the 16-year-old shattered the U18 Mile World Record. Sam ran 3:48.88 at the BU Terrier Invitational in Boston on 31 January 2026. He will race again in Boston, this time in the 3 K race on 22 February at the Saucony Battle for Boston invitational. 

This trip to the United States of America was Sam’s first experience running on an indoor track. Discover what a workout is like for a top-level runner and some of the technology involved. Hear Sam’s father, Ben Ruthe, a former champion runner, tell us how Sam got into running and what it has been like as Sam’s running times just keep getting better. 

Discussion points

• What difference do you think indoor versus outdoor tracks make on running times? 

• Why are there separate records for indoor tracks and outdoor tracks? 

• How much impact do you think genetics has on ability? 

View the original video on the FloTrack YouTube channel.