CELEBRATED Scottish cyclist Graeme Obree will receive an Honorary Doctorate from University of the West of Scotland.
Obree, nicknamed ‘The Flying Scotsman’, will be given the award at the UWS graduation ceremony on Thursday in Hamilton.
The cyclist first captured the public imagination when he broke the hour record in 1993 on "Old Faithful", a bike famously made from old washing machine parts.
He went on to become a double world individual pursuit champion and claimed the hour record a second time in 1994.
In addition to his athletic exploits he is almost equally well known for his innovative, and sometimes controversial, bicycle designs and riding positions which aided his cycling accomplishments on the global stage.
But the celebrated sportsman has suffered from mental health issues.
Throughout his career he has regularly contributed to TV and radio, often discussing issues in relation to cycling and mental health.
Mr Obree, who was inducted into the Scottish Sports Hall of Fame in 2010, said: "The vision I had and what I achieved has no practical worth today other than to inspire others not to give up when they might, and to follow a passion when they might not.
"This award helps that happen.”
Professor Craig Mahoney, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of University of the West of Scotland, said: “Graeme embodies the University’s aspirations for its students, showing that grit, determination and hard work can lead to success and we are delighted to award him with an Honorary Doctorate. His sporting achievements in the face of adversity, and his willingness to share his difficulties for the benefit of others, are an inspiration to us all and he is a fitting recipient of this award.”
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