Sir Chris Hoy has inspired a generation to don their cycling helmet and hit the street on two wheels but is he soon to do the same for motorsports? This week the legend of the velodrome announced his aspirations to compete in the world famous 24 hour race, Le Mans, as part of team Nissan.
With 11 major world titles under his belt (or should we say, rather tight lycra cycle shorts!) including a record–breaking 6 Olympic Golds, the sporting hero is now turning his sights to motorsports glory and has already been enjoying a track race or two. Like most Olympians, competitiveness is in Hoy’s blood and now it seems hobby racing is not enough. He has signed up as a brand ambassador for Nissan, manufacturer of Qashqai, winner of this year’s What Car? Car of the Year, in a deal that will see him compete in major motoring events.
Of course, other than both requiring nerves of steel and a serious degree of fitness, cycling and motor-racing are very distinct so Nissan have confirmed that their new ambassador will be receiving the best in training with their Advanced Driver Programme aiming to progress his motorsports skill to that of an expert in a very short period of time. If anyone is capable of this, it has to been this sporting legend.
One of the first major appointments in his racing calendar is the British GT Championship taking place at Easter at Cheshire’s Oulton Park circuit. A strong performance on track here would certainly boost confidence that Hoy could be representing Nissan in the ultimate endurance test – Le Mans 2016.
Official automotive partner of the British Olympic Association and the British Paralympic Association, Nissan is confident in their signing who will also, as part of the deal be supporting athletes on the Road to Rio. In an official statement they said “Sir Chris has already shown that he is a very capable driver”.
Two wheels or four, Sir Chris Hoy is an inspiration to many and his enthusiasm and involvement is certain to introduce a new audience to the world of motorsports. Nice one Nissan!
