Sir Chris Hoy reveals details of 'shock' cancer diagnosis in heartbreaking report

Sir Chris Hoy was diagnosed with cancer in an emotional statement on Friday evening last year.

The six-time Olympic track cycling champion, 47, explained she wanted to keep her diagnosis private for her young family, but „felt her hand was forced”. He said the news came as a complete shock after experiencing no physical symptoms of the disease.

His full statement, shared on his Instagram feed, read: „I have a little news. I was diagnosed with cancer last year, which was a huge shock, until then there were no symptoms. I am currently. Undergoing treatment, including chemotherapy, which fortunately is going well.

„I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the medical professionals for their wonderful help and care. I had hoped to keep this information private for the sake of my young family, but sadly our hand was forced.

„While I am grateful for any support, I want to deal with this personally. My heart goes out to the many who are facing similar challenges right now. I am hopeful, positive and surrounded by love. I am truly grateful. As you can imagine, the past few months have been incredibly difficult.

„However, I feel great at the moment – I continue to work, ride my bike and live my life normally. It's an exciting year, not with the Paris Olympics in July. I can't wait to get stuck in, enjoy and share with you all.”

Chris won his first gold medal in Athens in 2004, where he also set a world record in the kilometer time trial. He went on to win five more gold medals in subsequent Olympics.

He is blessed with two children, Callum and Chloe, who he shares with his loving wife Sarah.

In 2009, Chris was knighted for services to sport. He is a proud ambassador for the Scottish Association for Mental Health, where he and his wife do their best to raise awareness of the challenges facing parents with premature babies, having experienced it twice with both their children.