Getting to know... decathlete Luke Pichler

Multi-sport star Luke’s our latest Platinum Award winner and if you’re wondering just what he’s done to deserve our most prestigious package of support then here are the headlines:

·      In 2025 decathlete Luke won gold at the University of Birmingham Combined Events Festival with a new personal best.

·      That brilliant display in Brum was a new North East Under 20 record… for 18-year-old Luke!

·      A few weeks after making an impression in the Midlands, Luke was at it again — bettering his own record and finishing second in his age group at the England Athletics Combined Events Championship.

·      After a breakout year on the national stage it’s no surprise that his country came calling. After winning an England vest, Luke’s set his sights on running, jumping and throwing for GB as an 8,000-point decathlete!

So who is this generational talent? Here’s all you need to know:

·      Luke’s North Tyneside-based and a member of Blyth Running Club.

·      This summer he’ll sit his A Level exams in Geography, Psychology and PE.

·      Luke’s a Newcastle United fan and loves to relax on family walks with his dog.

·      He’s a big fan of indie rockers Radiohead and Tame Impala.

·      Luke’s favourite films are Back To The Future and Dune.

With 10 events to choose from which are Luke’s favourites:

·      He loves the 110m hurdles best of all and is ranked #1 in the event for his age group indoors and out.

·      Luke likes the pole vault — the hardest discipline to master but the most rewarding.

·      He’s trying to enjoy the 400m and the discus… watch this space.

And what do we have to say about Luke Pichler:

·      “He’s a dedicated athlete, who has amazing resilience and talent. Luke’s well supported by a committed coaching team at Blyth Running Club and is undoubtedly one of the best young athletes to emerge from the region in the last few years.” (Mike Booth, vice chair, Sport Newcastle)

 So there’s the lowdown on Luke! Our Platinum Award winners receive £1,500 annually for three years. We’ll keep you posted on their progress…