Inspiring Story: Dick and Rick Hoyt

"Team Hoyt"

Rick Hoyt was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth. He can't do things, he can't talk. Yet his mother Judy would spend hours and hours everyday to teach Rick alphabet. At the age of 11, Rick was fitted to a computer that allowed him to communicate.

Rick wanted so much to run in a marathon after he saw an article, so his father Dick Hoyt would train everyday. He was not a runner, but yet he still wanted to fulfill Rick's dream.

 They started in 1977, and after their first race Rick said, "Dad, when I'm running, it feels like I'm not handicapped." They would participate in all sort of event, from marathon to triathlon. Dick would pulls Rick in a special boat as they swim, carries him in a special seat in front of a bicycle, and pushes him in a special wheelchair as they run.



As of July 2010, they have participated and completed 1032 events. Included among those 238 Triathlon. Dick is aged 70 and Rick 49.

~ Don't Give Up On Your Dream ~