Over the last 37 years, the father-son duo of Team Hoyt has competed in more than 1,100 races and Ironman triathlons. They’ve done it in spite of the fact, or perhaps because of the fact, that the son was diagnosed with cerebral palsy shortly after birth and can’t talk, walk or use his arms or legs.
In all of the races, they’ve been powered by love and they physical strength of Dick Hoyt, now 74 years old. After completing the 2014 Boston Marathon, the team officially retired from competing in marathons and triathlons.
Dick Hoyt talks to Growing Bolder Radio about their races, which have included 70 marathons and six Ironman triathlons, and how he was driven to keep competing because of the sense of freedom and joy the races gave his son. And even though, Team Hoyt may be retired from marathons, Rick will keep going thanks to other volunteers who will be pushing him.
Plus, Dick also talks about how doctors once told him he needed to institutionalize his son. He refused and wait until you hear about Rick’s life of independence and accomplishment today.
Click here to visit TeamHoyt.com to learn more about Dick and Rick and to find out where you can see them racing next.