Sir Chris Hoy launches scholarship for student athletes

A scholarship for young athletes who are also in university has been launched by Sir Chris Hoy to help them develop their “exceptional talent” in sport and academia.

The six-time Olympic champion launched the Sir Chris Hoy Sports Scholarship Fund alongside the University of Edinburgh.

The funding will support students at the university who are training and competing while studying for their degree.

Twenty students are receiving the funding this year in a bid to help them overcome financial challenges posed by intensive training and competing.

This year’s scholars include Alyson Bell and Phoebe Gill, who are training in athletics, cyclist Amelia Tyler, diver Noah Penman, swimmer Ciara Schlosshan, and mountain biker Emily Carrick-Anderson.

They receive financial support similar to a bursary, as well as access to the sporting facilities, training, nutrition support and physiotherapy.

Sir Chris studied applied sports sciences in 1999 at the University of Edinburgh and went on to gain 11 world championship titles and seven Olympic medals, including six golds.

Mr Penman said: “Sir Chris Hoy was a hero of mine growing up and I feel honoured to be awarded this support.

“The scholarship is a gamechanger for me, and will let me free up time to train, invest in new kit, and help me to continue to compete internationally at the highest standard.”

Sir Chris said: “I hope the scholarship will give young students the opportunity to give their all in pursuing their dreams in sport and education.

“The financial support and practical support they receive at the university is important to make their sporting dreams a reality.

“For any athlete, your sporting career will end at some point, so gaining an education at the same time is such an important thing to do.

“I am excited to see what amazing things this first cohort of scholars will go on to do.”

Sir Chris revealed last year that he has been diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer, which has spread to his bones.

Earlier this month he helped raise more than £2m for cancer charities with his ‘Tour de 4’ fundraising bike ride in Glasgow.

Prof Sir Peter Mathieson, principal and vice-chancellor of the university, said: “Sir Chris is an inspiration to all of us at the university and we are proud that he is part of our alumni community.

“This investment in our athletes ensures that the university can continue to nurture their exceptional talent.”