SNS GroupThe Scottish sporting world has been playing tribute to the Queen following the announcement of her death.
The monarch passed away peacefully at Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire on Thursday surrounded by family.
Sporting organisations and athletes joined those across the country in sending messages of condolence and remembrance.
Six-time Olympic champion cyclist Sir Chris Hoy led the tributes, saying: “I share the sadness and sorrow of all Britons and many others around the world in mourning the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“I had the pleasure of meeting Her Majesty on a number of occasions and always admired her tremendous dedication and absolute commitment to her role, as well as the generosity and compassion she offered to all those she met.
“Her Majesty the Queen devoted her life to our country, guiding us through so many historically significant moments with great leadership.”
Scotland record goal-scoring men’s footballer Sir Kenny Dalglish tweeted a picture of himself with the Queen along with the simple message: “Rest in Peace Your Majesty”.
World champion boxer Hannah Rankin tweeted “Rest in Peace Your Majesty”, while former champion athlete Liz McColgan said: “So sad. What a great woman and leader. RIP”.
Scottish Football Association president Rod Petrie said: “On behalf of the Scottish football family, I send my condolences to the Royal Family following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“We will join the nation in a period of mourning and reflect on the indomitable spirit that characterised Her Majesty’s long reign and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.
“Her Majesty’s love and affinity for Scotland is well-known and long-established and we at the Scottish FA are deeply saddened by the passing of our Patron.”
Individual Premiership clubs all published their own messages of condolence on social media.
Scottish Rugby issued a statement saying that the organisation was “deeply saddened” by the news. It said: “The Queen’s dedication and service to public life was without equal during her 70-year reign and our sport was honoured to host Her Majesty on several occasions.
“On behalf of the rugby community in Scotland we send sincere condolences to the Royal Family at this time.”
Dominic McKay, chairman of European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) said: “It is with great sadness that all of us at EPCR have learned of the passing of HRH Queen Elizabeth II. We stand with our leagues, unions, clubs and beyond to honour Her Majesty and her inspirational life.
“Queen Elizabeth II was a monarch who embodied steadfastness, dignity and faithful public service and was greatly admired, respected and loved by people around the world.”
Cricket Scotland tweeted “Rest in peace HRH Queen Elizabeth II”.
Netball Scotland also paid tribute to the monarch, saying: “On behalf of the netball community in Scotland, Netball Scotland expresses our deep sadness at the passing of Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II. Our condolences go to the Royal Family. May she rest in peace.”
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