Chris Hoy, the legendary British track sprinter, has revealed he was diagnosed with cancer last year and is currently still undergoing treatment. While he wanted to deal with it privately, he said his hand has been forced to go public.
The Scot, one of British cycling's most prolific winners at the Olympics and World Championships, has said his diagnosis came as a complete shock as he had no symptoms.
Hoy (47), who won six Olympic titles and 11 Worlds golds, retired from cycling in 2013 after drawing equal with Bradley Wiggins and Jason Kenny as Britain's most successful ever Olympian after he claimed two golds, in the keirin and team sprint, at the London 2012 Games.
However, despite his diagnosis and his current treatment of chemotherapy, Hoy said he was looking forward to the future and having a role in the Paris Games this summer.
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"I have a bit of news. Last year I was diagnosed with cancer, which came as a huge shock, having had no symptoms up to that point," Hoy wrote on Instagram.
"I'm currently receiving treatment including chemotherapy, which thankfully is going really well. I'd like to extend my sincere gratitude to all the medical professionals for their amazing help and care.
"For the sake of my young family, I had hoped to keep this information private but regrettably our hand has been forced. While I'm thankful for any support, I'd like to deal with this privately. My heart goes out to the many others who are also going through similar challenges right now.
"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 - I am continuing to work, ride my bike and live my life as normal.
"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."
