Johnny Morris (Ryan) lives at home with his mother and his physically abusive stepfather. His only outlets are girlfriend Trish and running. His friend and mentor, Victor, a champion runner, helps him train for his first marathon. Industrialist Phillip Prichard discovers Johnny and takes him under his wing. Prichard forces Johnny to give up Trish and Victor. In return Johnny will receive money and fame. But Johnny must choose whether money is worth giving up everything meaningful in his life.