A fund has been created by athlete Sir Chris Hoy along with The University of Edinburgh to support students training for elite sport at the same time as studying for a degree.
The Sir Chris Hoy Sports Scholarship Fund has been set up to assist 20 students deal with financial hurdles posed by training intensively for high level competition.
Sir Chris Hoy, said: “I hope the scholarship will give young students the opportunity to give their all in pursuing their dreams in sport and education. The financial support and practical support they receive at the University is important to make their sporting dreams a reality. For any athlete, your sporting career will end at some point, so gaining an education at the same time is such an important thing to do. I am excited to see what amazing things this first cohort of scholars will go on to do.”
Professor Sir Peter Mathieson, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Edinburgh, said: “Sir Chris is an inspiration to all of us at the University and we are proud that he is part of our alumni community. This investment in our athletes ensures that the University can continue to nurture their exceptional talent.”
Noah Penman is a 2025 Sir Chris Hoy Scholar, and represents Great Britain in Diving. He said: “Sir Chris Hoy was a hero of mine growing up and I feel honoured to be awarded this support. The scholarship is a gamechanger for me, and will let me free up time to train, invest in new kit, and help me to continue to compete internationally at the highest standard.”
This year’s successful applicants include Alyson Bell (Athletics), Amelia Tyler (Cycling), Ciara Schlosshan (Swimming), Emily Carrick-Anderson (Mountain Biking) and Phoebe Gill (Athletics). All will benefit from significant financial support, as well as access to world-class facilities, strength and conditioning, sports psychology, nutrition support and physiotherapy.
Sir Chris is a seven times Olympic medallist and one of the UK’s most decorated athletes and as a former Edinburgh University student knows the challenges. He graduated with a degree in Applied Sports Sciences in 1999 and is a key figure in the university’s Hall of Fame where rugby legend Gregor Townsend MBE, Olympic rowing champion, Baroness Katherine Grainger, and ultra-marathon runner, Jasmin Paris are also featured.
The fund is open for donations here.
