Sir Chris Hoy's brave plans as Team GB Olympics star shares cancer diagnosis
Former Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy is not letting his cancer diagnosis stop him from planning to attend the 2024 games in Paris.
The retired cyclist, 47, revealed he has begun treatment - including chemotherapy - after being diagnosed with cancer last year. However, he has praised those around him for the levels of support they have been offering.
Hoy won gold medals at the 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics. The London edition in 2012 saw him end up with a pair of golds, in the keirin and the team sprint.
His exploits in the Beijing games in 2008 earned him the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, which he followed up with a Lifetime Achievement award at the same ceremony in 2014. The Scot has also worked as a TV pundit for the Olympics in the past, and remains determined to continue down that path in 2024 after sharing the support he has received.
"For the sake of my young family, I had hoped to keep this information private but regrettably our hand has been forced," Hoy wrote on social media, explaining he is continuing to live his life as normal. "Whilst I'm thankful for any support, I'd like to deal with this privately," he continued.
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"I'm optimistic, positive and surrounded by love for which I'm truly grateful. As you might imagine, the last few months have been incredibly difficult. However, I currently feel fine.
"It's an exciting year of work ahead, not least with the Paris Olympics in July. I can't wait to get stuck in, have fun and share it with you all."
Share your messages of support for Sir Chris Hoy in the comments section
Gary Lineker is among those to share messages of support (Getty Images)A number of messages of support for Hoy have begun pouring in following his announcement. These have come from inside and outside the sporting world, with first minister Humza Yousaf sending his well-wishes. "My very best wishes for a speedy and full recovery to the sporting legend that is Sir @chrishoy," Yousaf wrote. "I hope appeals for privacy for him and his family are heeded at what must be a difficult time for them all."
"Awful news," wrote Match of the Day host and former England striker Gary Lineker. "Wishing @chrishoy a full recovery. Such a lovely guy." Former Scotland international footballer Charlie Adam was another to share a message of support. "Sad news, wishing @chrishoy my best wishes in his recovery," the Fleetwood Town manager wrote.
Hoy retired from cycling in 2013 with six Olympic gold medals, a record bested only by his former team-mate Jason Kenny. British cycling also shared a message of support following Hoy's announcement, saying: "Everyone at British Cycling sends their love and best wishes to you and your family, Chris. You got this."
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