Six-time Olympic cycling champion, Sir Chris Hoy, has shared that his cancer diagnosis is terminal. In a recent interview with The Sunday Times, the 48-year-old Scottish athlete revealed that doctors have given him an estimated two to four years to live.
Hoy first disclosed his battle with cancer earlier this year but had not previously discussed the full extent of his illness. He has now revealed that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, which has since spread to his bones, reaching stage four. Tumors have been discovered in several areas, including his shoulder, pelvis, hip, spine, and rib.
Reflecting on his diagnosis, Hoy expressed a sense of acceptance, saying, “As unnatural as it feels, this is nature. We were all born, and we all die. I remind myself that I’m fortunate there’s medicine to extend my time.”
Hoy’s cancer was initially detected last year after a routine scan for shoulder pain, which he thought was caused by lifting weights, revealed a tumor. He received the devastating news while with his wife, Sarra Hoy. The couple has two young children, Callum and Chloe, who were nine and six at the time of his diagnosis. Adding to the family’s challenges, Sarra was also diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a degenerative condition, just before Hoy’s cancer was discovered.
Sir Chris Hoy is one of Britain’s most decorated Olympians, having won six gold medals between 2004 and 2012, second only to Sir Jason Kenny. He retired from cycling in 2013 and has since been a prominent figure in BBC Sport’s cycling coverage, as well as a children’s book author.
Hoy’s incredible cycling career began when he was inspired by BMX scenes in the film E.T.. He went on to win Olympic gold in Athens in 2004, three more golds in Beijing in 2008, and two additional golds in London in 2012. His success and prestige were further recognized when he was chosen as the flag bearer for Team GB during the closing ceremony of the 2008 Olympics and again during the opening ceremony in 2012.
In 2014, a velodrome in Glasgow was named in his honor, cementing his legacy in the sport. This week, despite his ongoing health battles, Hoy has been co-presenting the World Track Championships on BBC Two with Jill Douglas.
Sir Chris Hoy’s story is one of resilience, strength, and an unbreakable spirit in the face of his terminal illness. His courage, both on and off the track, continues to inspire many around the world.
