Although we're only two weeks into the track and field season, we have already seen major improvements in the 400m across the state.

For starters, Jack Stadlman last weekend shocked the nation with his outdoor U.S. number one in the 400m at the Saddle Up Invitational. The senior from Temecula Valley ran 45.69 in the 400m, which shaved 3.37 seconds off of his previous 400m time. 

We spoke with Satdlman after his remarkable race. Interestingly, his favorite event isn't even the 400m but the 200m. He participated in the CIF Section Finals last season in the 200m and only ran a few 400m races.

In our interview, Staldman gave us a bit of insight into his training and end-of-season goals.

Jack Stadlman is among the numerous boys and girls who have shown enormous improvement in the 400m this season. The most improved boys so far are Brian Bonner, with a PR of 4.62 seconds, and Zayla Ridley, with a PR of 7.15 seconds.

Take a look at the links below to see which California girls and boys have improved so far this season and who others are tracking compared to their 2024 bests.

*Editor's Note:  This list was compiled by comparing the top 200 performances from 2024 with those from 2025.