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Team Hoyt: The most inspirational father-son team you'll see

Posted: May 10th 2008 2:22PM by Kristen Seymour
Filed under: Fitness, Healthy Relationships, Motivation and Inspiration, Healthy Kids


Dick Hoyt, 67, and his son Rick, 46, have accomplished more than many of us could imagine. They've climbed mountains, completed 224 triathlons (including six Ironmans), 66 marathons, a 45-day cross-country bike ride, and more. Obviously, that's inspiring in and of itself.

What makes it AMAZING is that Rick is a quadriplegic and cannot walk or talk -- he was born with cerebral palsy, which kept him from ever being able to control his muscles and limbs, including his vocal chords.

Dick started participating in races and endurance events with his son when Rick was just 11, and the duo hasn't taken more than two weeks off since. Dick continues to train and compete because Rick gets so much joy out of it, and it makes him happy to see his son happy.

Gallery: Team Hoyt: Yes you can!

Team HoytIronman parade, Hawaii, 2005Winners!First running chair
Dick carries his 115-pound son on his back when he mountain climbs, pushes Rick in a wheelchair when he runs, pulls him in a dinghy when he swims, and puts Rick in a seat pod on the front of his bike when he rides. And, while Rick might not be able to use his vocal chords, the Boston University graduate certainly has a voice.

The father-son team travels as motivational speakers, inspiring people all over the country. Rick has spent his life destroying the stereotypes that come along with his disability, showing that "can't" is just a state of mind. The Team Hoyt motto is "Yes you can," and when they say it, I believe them completely.

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