Sport Newcastle-supported duo Luke Pichler and Lucy Dodd are targeting major gains in 2026 as two of the North East’s most exciting talents juggle studies with sporting success.

A Level student Luke heads to the US later this year after winning a place on the prestigious track and field athletics programme at the University of Texas at San Antonio.

And badminton star Lucy is working around the clock to overcome a persistent foot injury after bagging a bronze medal in the women’s doubles at this year’s BUCS Championship — the top level for student sport.

Budding decathlete Luke put the revision on hold to clinch gold in both the discus and pole vault at May’s North East Athletics Championships.

And the North Tyneside-based athlete added a silver to his medal haul after finishing runner-up in the 110m hurdles.

“I managed to get a PB in the discus in some terrible weather,” he told Sport Newcastle. “It was tough to compete in those conditions but I was really happy with how the weekend went. I’m looking forward to the outdoor season.”

A Levels meant Luke was forced to turn down an invitation to represent England in Spain later this month but by mid June it will be all systems go for one of the UK’s most exciting multi-discipline prospects.

Meanwhile fellow Platinum Athlete Lucy is building on a strong comeback at the 2026 English National Badminton Championships.

Her first event since suffering a foot injury was pain free and positive — but the problem resurfaced following an encouraging run at the BUCS Championships.

“Injury is part and parcel of sport and it’s just one of those things,” she said. “I’m working with a physio, feeling stronger and back on court again.

“It’s exam time at university now anyway so I’m going to focus on my studies for a few weeks and hopefully return better and stronger.”

Sport Newcastle supports North East-based athletes at every level — for more information click here.