Running News Daily

On April 12, 2025, the day he turns 16, New Zealand’s rising distance running star Sam Ruthe will compete in the 3200-meter race at the prestigious Arcadia Invitational in California. This event, renowned as the “Home of National Records,” is considered the most competitive high school track and field meet in the United States. It is held annually at Arcadia High School in Arcadia, California.

Sam’s participation follows a series of remarkable achievements. On March 19, at just 15, he became the youngest person ever to run a sub-four-minute mile, clocking 3:58.35 at Auckland’s Go Media Stadium. This feat surpassed the previous record held by Norway’s Jakob Ingebrigtsen, who ran a sub-four-minute mile at 16 years and 250 days. Continuing his impressive form, Sam set a new world age-15 best in the 1500 meters with a time of 3:40.12 at the Maurie Plant Meet in Melbourne on March 29.

The Arcadia Invitational’s 3200-meter race has been a platform for outstanding performances. In April 2023, Simeon Birnbaum set a meet record with a time of 8:34.10. The following year, 37 boys achieved sub-9-minute times in the 3200 meters, highlighting the event’s competitive depth.

As Sam prepares to compete against top high school athletes in this challenging race, his recent accomplishments suggest he is poised to make a significant impact. Whether aiming for a personal best or seeking to challenge meet records, Sam’s 16th birthday race at Arcadia promises to be a memorable milestone in his burgeoning.