To intervene as overbearing parents, or let a generational talent chase what's possible at 16-years-old?
To intervene as overbearing parents, or let a generational talent chase what's possible at 16-years-old?
26 January 2026
That's the dilemma facing Ben and Jess Ruthe as their son Sam shakes up the middle distance running world.
The teenager now holds the world lead mile time for his age, and he's off to the United States this week with training partner and Olympian Sam Tanner for another series of races over the distance.
Ben Ruthe says he has faith in coach Craig Kirkwood's programme.
Ruthe senior's previously indicated education will remains Sam's priority in 2026 - he's about to start year 12 at Tauranga Boys College.
© 2026 Newstalk ZB, NZCity