Team Hoyt

Superman Hall of Heroes inductees, Rick and Dick Hoyt, have been an inspiration to fellow runners and the physically disabled for decades. Dick and his son Rick, who is a spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy, compete  in athletic events to promote awareness of the physically challenged and prove anything is possible.

Rick Hoyt uses a wheelchair, but that has not stopped him from living a very full and amazing life.  He, along with his dad, Dick, formed “Team Hoyt” and they have competed in more than 1,100 athletic events in the last 34 years.  They have run in 70 marathons, 31 of them being the Boston Marathon.  On April 21, 2014, Rick and Dick Hoyt ran their final Boston Marathon together. They have also competed in 252 triathlons, six of them being Ironman distance events.

Dick, 73, is a retired Lt. Colonel, having served in the military for 35 years.  Rick, 51, is a graduate of Boston University with a degree in Special Education.  Rick was born in 1962 as a spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy who is unable to speak and walk, 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 travels the country giving 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. 

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