Nottingham runner Luke Duffy heads into 2019 with a ‘chip on his shoulder’ after a tricky track season.

The Mapperley Park resident’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric – bagging Commonwealth Youth Games bronze last year to announce himself on the international stage over 1500m.

Duffy then did the East Midlands proud over the summer when he outpaced the nation and raced to glory down the Mall, winning the U17 Virgin Money Giving London Mini Marathon in 14:24.

In a year that also saw him become national indoor champion, it’s a sign of how high the 18-year-old sets his standards that he feels he’s got plenty to prove next season.

“It’s been a turbulent year, I have to say,” said Duffy.

“I got loads of followers and support off the back of some of my wins, like British three-mile champion and of course the marathon.

“But the track season didn’t go quite how I wanted and some injury problems hampered me moving from winter training onto the track.

“I think I go into next year with a chip on my shoulder and something to prove, knowing I’ve got previous achievements to draw on and push into the future.

“The massive goal for next year is the European Junior Championships in Sweden but that’s six months away.

“You can’t just focus on that, you need to plan everything meticulously in terms of when you peak and I’ll be out to defend my title at the national indoors.”

For Duffy, it all comes down to Bedford in June when selection for Sweden is finalist and the youngster knows he needs to be at his speediest and steeliest for that particular meet.

His cause is also being helped by The Nottingham Building Society, who are teaming up with charity SportsAid to support 50 local athletes as they try to find their ‘time to shine’, with each receiving £750 of funding.

Duffy was one of 15 SportsAid-supported stars to attend a fun-filled Christmas celebration at The Nottingham’s city HQ, helping celebrate and bring the ongoing partnership to life.

Four top ice hockey aces from The Nottingham Panthers were in attendance to offer their advice to the upcoming athletes, while among activities was a Kit Challenge and Wheel of Fortune with prizes.

Duffy is delighted to continue to receive the support of the charity and also to share wisdom with like-minded teenagers, as well as professional athletes.

“It was a really good evening and a nice way to mark the end of the year,” he said.

“There were some great discussion had among groups of us, on how we manage academic work and sport and things about your social life.

“In a sport where funding is slightly tighter, SportsAid’s support is great and it’s amazing knowing the work I’ve been doing is being appreciated by such a great organisation.”

Nottingham Building Society and Harrison Murray teamed up with SportsAid in 2013 to help future sports stars get their time to shine. Visit thenottingham.com to find out more.