Together- You Can Do Anything!
Dick Hoyt is one-half of the inspiring “Team Hoyt”, a father-son duo who have advocated for people living with disabilities and encouraged the belief that “yes, you can,” through their participation in numerous athletic events around the world. Since 1977, Dick has competed with his son, Rick, in over 1100 race events, including marathons, duathlons, and triathlons.
Dick and Rick’s athletic endeavors have earned them inductions into the Ford Ironman World Championship Hall of Fame and the Marine Corps Marathon Hall of Fame, and in 2013 they received the ESPY Jimmy V Award for Perseverance.
Rick was born in 1962 as a spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy and as a non-speaking person – but despite these disabilities, Rick’s mind and spirit have always been strong. His family supported his quest for independence and inclusion in community, sports, education and the workplace, culminating with his graduation from Boston University.
Dick, 76 years young, is a retired Lt. Colonel, having served in the Air National Guard for over 35 years. He is a father to three sons and grandfather to four grandsons.
Now an inspirational speaker, Dick travels the country doing corporate and community presentations, educating the public about disability awareness and promoting the Team Hoyt motto, “Yes You Can”. Through his presentation, Dick shares his lifelong commitment to changing attitudes and educating others on the world of disabilities. He and his family have seen an impact from their efforts in the area of public attitude toward people with disabilities.
One of our local businesses, Southbridge Tool & Manufacturing developed a new running chair with superior comfort, performance and reliability for Dick and Rick to continue their passion for running. The results were so impressive that they endorse the chair by calling it “The Team Hoyt Running Chair”. Team Running Chairs are manufactured for physically challenged individuals who wish to participate in 5k, 10k, ½ marathons, full marathons, triathlons, etc. The Center of Hope work closely with Team Hoyt Running Chairs. Some of our small businesses provide specialty graphics for Running Chairs wheel covers and chair decals, assist with shipping the Signature chairs and printing event flyers.
We are greatly appreciative that Team Hoyt has given us the opportunity to contribute to their cause and their continual support of us with their generous donations from the Hoyt Foundation.
