Sir Chris Hoy becomes Air Cadets ambassador
The Royal Air Force Air Cadets organisation has announced that Olympic gold medallist Sir Chris Hoy has agreed to become their ambassador.
![Sir Chris Hoy in action [Picture: Bryn Lennon/Getty Images]](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a617584e5274a0a1b10ca3f/s300_Sir_Chris_Hoy_in_actiong.jpg)
Sir Chris Hoy in action
Sir Chris has close family ties to the RAF, has flown in a Typhoon aircraft at RAF Leuchars, and has already demonstrated a very keen interest in the Air Cadets organisation - a modern, dynamic, air-minded youth organisation which offers fun and challenging opportunities.
With an excellent reputation as a hardworking, high-achieving sportsman and an outstanding team player, Sir Chris is seen as an ideal ambassador for the Corps, complementing the cadets’ core values of teamwork and excellence.
His pedigree as one of the most successful, iconic British Olympians makes him the ideal role model for young people and the adult volunteers who support them.
In accepting this prestigious appointment, Sir Chris will assume the ambassador rank of Honorary Group Captain, and, having recently announced his retirement from professional cycling, he will hopefully find time to spend with cadets and volunteers at major events and competitions.
Sir Chris Hoy took a trip in a Typhoon on a visit to RAF Leuchars last year [Picture: Senior Aircraftman Ash Reynolds, Crown copyright]
Speaking about the appointment, Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty, said:
We are thrilled that Sir Chris has accepted our invitation to join the Corps as an Honorary Group Captain and we can’t wait to see him in uniform and supporting some of the many exciting cadet activities on offer.
We know that cadets and volunteers alike will welcome this appointment as something truly special for the Corps and we look forward to working with Sir Chris over the coming years to promote the cadet experience.
Sir Chris responded by saying:
I am thrilled to be invited to be an ambassador for the Air Cadets organisation. I am really impressed by the wide range of activities on offer to the cadets and by the commitment of the adult volunteers who support these young people in achieving their potential and becoming good citizens.
I particularly like the emphasis on sport and competition across the Corps and I look forward to attending events as and when my schedule permits. If I can’t be there in person, I will be there in spirit, and I send my very best wishes to everyone in the Corps.