Edinburgh honours Olympian Hoy

Published on Tuesday 30 June 2009 20:05

TRIPLE Beijing Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy was honoured by his home city yesterday.

Sir Chris, 33, is to receive the Edinburgh Award – following on from previous winners Harry Potter author JK Rowling and crime writer Ian Rankin.

The award was set up in 2007 to recognise outstanding achievements and contribution to the city.

A panel chaired by Edinburgh's Lord Provost George Grubb unanimously voted Sir Chris the 2009 winner.

The award was presented at a ceremony in Edinburgh.

Sir Chris will also have his handprints immortalised in Caithness stone in the City Chambers quadrangle.

The cyclist, who now lives in Greater Manchester, said he was delighted and "deeply honoured" by the award.

"I was born and brought up in Edinburgh and the support I received in all areas of my life there – at school and university and with my cycling – is an integral part of my success," he said.

"I'm very proud to be from Edinburgh and I hope to move back there one day."