Words: Chris Sidwells
Pictures: Andy Jones
The announcement by Sir Chris Hoy of his terminal cancer diagnosis has rocked cycling and the wider sports world to its foundation. The love we have for him, for his strength of character, dignity and presence in this world is immense. And that’s before we even mention his talent.
How he thrilled us at the Beijing and London Olympics, and with his many world titles, winning with honour and athletic ability backed by extreme dedication and discipline. How he wore all those titles with appreciation, gratitude and modesty.
I first met Sir Chris in of all places for a track sprinter, Alpe d’Huez at the end of an edition of the Etape du Tour. He was taking part as a group with British Cycling staff, including Sir David Brailsford, but finished alone and well ahead of them. “Of course I had to win,” he told me, half joking but still revealing the competitive spirit every champion must have, no matter how kind and supportive of others they are.
A few years later we wrote a book together, How to Ride a Bike - from starting out to peak performance. It was an absolute honour, Chris’s intelligence, his knowledge of his profession and his warmth and openness left a lasting impression. Whenever I was with him he seemed to fill the room, he has that kind of presence.
Sir Chris Hoy is very special, a force of nature, a force for good, and the best of who we can be in this world. His dignity in talking so openly about where he is now is profound. His positivity is a lesson for us all. I have nothing but admiration for him, and find myself lost for words to add to that.
1 comment
Nice words Chris,he’s a special guy for sure,a hero for all to look to for example. His wife’s diagnosis of aggressive MS is, at this time ,a cruelty that makes one wonder about life and justice. For her to have to cope with that and Chris’ inevitable decline left Rosemary and I shocked and very sad. We wish them both well, it may be there will be new treatment or remission, we certainly hope so.