Hoy launches scholarship

CAPITAL cycling ace Chris Hoy has stepped up the search for his successor with the launch of a scholarship programme that will offer two young riders a chance to spend time at the world track school in Aigle, Switzerland.

The 32-year-old, who has four Olympic gold medals to his name, is expected to reveal the first two recipients in the coming weeks. He has secured financial backing to cover the costs of living and training at the venue where Hoy's fellow Olympic medallists Ross Edgar and Victoria Pendleton honed their skills.

Hoy said of the venture: "I am extremely proud to launch this new project that will put something back into the sport that has given me so much. I am excited about finding talented riders, investing in them and developing future Olympic stars. I hope this scholarship will, over the years, encourage ongoing participation and development of riders."

The fund's patron will be former Scotland rugby captain Gavin Hastings, who was Hoy's own childhood sporting hero.

Hastings said: "As a fellow Scot, I am honoured to be involved in The Chris Hoy Scholarship. In time we hope that by spotting talent and supporting aspiring cyclists, we will find a successor to this great athlete."