#6 Team Hoyt

Team Hoyt is a father and son team that runs. When Rick Hoyt was born his umbilical cord wrapped around his neck. With the absences of oxygen, Rick was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. However, that did not stop Rick. Rick was determined to do everything a normal kid could. This mindset came from Dick Hoyt. Dick treated his son no differently than if he was normal. One of Ricks top achievements is graduating from Boston University. With a special speaking chair, Rick was able to graduate with a degree in special education.       

Dick Hoyt is the greatest father in the world. At the age of 36, Dick and Rick ran in their first race (1977). The race was for lacrosse players that were paralyzed. After running the race Rick said, “Dad, when I am running, it feels like I’m not handicapped.” Ever since that day Dick made it his job to get in shape. Dick knew that he had to be in great shape to push his son in races. Furthermore, Dick did not just stop with running. Instead, he expanded his body to swimming and biking.

With body in shape, Dick and Rick competed in many athletic events. Some of their greatest achievements is 257 triathlons, 72 marathons, and 6 ironmans. They have participated in the Boston marathon 32 times. These are just some of their achievements. All calculated together, team Hoyt have been in 1130 endurance events. In 1992, team Hoyt biked the US. They biked 3735 miles in 45 days. Some might think how is this possible? Well they have special gear to carry Rick. Equipped with a specials boats, bicycle seats, and wheelchair, is how they participated in these events.  In April 21, 2014 team Hoyt ran their last race. Of courses, this last race was the Boston marathon. One might remember the Boston marathon bombing. Yes, team Hoyt was in that race.

I think it is crazy how in shape Dick Hoyt must be. At an older age, Dick is stronger than me. I can barely run a mile. Dick can run miles carrying someone else. The most impressive part of a race is swimming. Dick swims pulling a boat that holds his son. That takes some serious endurance and strength. Dick pushes through the pain because he knows that his son loves racing. The world’s greatest dad puts his son first and his body last. Team Hoyt has inspired thousands of people. For more information, go to their Team Hoyt website.