Britain's most successful Olympian, Chris Hoy, on Thursday announced his retirement from cycling with immediate effect, prompting glowing tributes from leading figures in the sport. British Cycling performance director Dave Brailsford, who oversaw the 37-year-old Scot's transformation from BMX rider to a ruthless track sprinter who won six Olympic golds, as an icon.
"I can't speak highly enough of Chris and his career," said Brailsford, who, like Hoy, was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II following the British team's exploits in London. "Chris' application, athleticism and dedication are second to none and I've said it many times, but he is a true Olympic champion who embodies all of the Olympic values."
Hoy made his announcement - which had been widely expected - at Murrayfield stadium in his native Edinburgh. "I'm officially announcing my retirement from international cycling," he told a press conference. "It's a decision which I didn't take lightly. It's something I thought about hard with the help of my family and my coaches." Hoy overtook rower Steve Redgrave as Britain's most successful Olympian at last year's Games in London, when he claimed gold medals in the team sprint and the keirin. He had hoped to continue competing until next year's Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where the cycling event will be held at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, but said he was no longer capable of competing at the highest level. Hoy is an ambassador for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and has also announced plans to launch his own brand of bicycles.