Richard Potts
Richard Potts is a former New Zealand middle-distance runner known for holding the 1500m school record since 1989. He achieved a remarkable time of 3m 59.8s during his competitive career and later represented New Zealand at the 1994 Commonwealth Games. Now 53, Potts actively coaches young athletes and reflects on the longevity of his record, which is currently at risk from emerging talent like Sam Ruthe.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Sam Ruthe broke the schools’ championships 1500m record held by Hawke’s Bay athlete Richard Potts since 1989.
Athletics marvel Sam Ruthe destined for black-singlet glory – Editorial
New Zealand· 2026-02-09
Richard Potts set the previous 1500m record in 1989 before it was broken by Sam Ruthe.
Athletics: Sam Ruthe sets new benchmark in 800m a day after breaking 1500m record at secondary schools championshipsNew Zealand· 2025-12-07
Potts’ record, set when running for St John’s College, Hastings, in 1989, stands at 3m 46.92s.
On The Up: NZ schools athletics champs records being broken even before the games beginNew Zealand· 2025-12-03
The senior boys 1500m record set by Hastings runner and coach Richard Potts in 1989.
Funds crisis for all-weather athletics track in HastingsNew Zealand· 2025-04-18
Potts jokes that if he’s to retain the record, he may need divine intervention.
Sam Ruthe puts Hawke’s Bay runner Richard Potts’ 1989 schools record at riskNew Zealand· 2025-03-21
Potts jokes that if he’s to retain the record, he may need divine intervention.
Sam Ruthe puts Hawke’s Bay runner Richard Potts’ 1989 schools record at riskNew Zealand· 2025-03-21