Rick Hoyt, a beloved Boston Marathoner who became an inspiration for others with disabilities as he competed in his wheelchair, pushed by his father, passed away on Monday morning at the age of 61, know his cause of death and obituary
The Hoyt Foundation, in a statement released on Monday, announced that Rick died due to complications with his respiratory system. His death came as a surprise to his family, as he had just appeared at events days prior.
Boston marathon icon Rick Hoyt cause of death, obituary, bio, age, family, father, mother, siblings, disability story
Rick Hoyt had cerebral palsy, which left him as a quadriplegic, but it never stopped him from pursuing his passions and breaking barriers. His disability did not affect his intelligence or wit, and his father, Dick Hoyt, played a crucial role in helping him participate in various activities. Dick often referred to himself as the “motor,” while Rick was the heart of their team.
We are saddened to hear one of our legends and friends, Rick Hoyt, has passed away. It is a loss for the entire triathlon and running community, but we are comforted by knowing Team Hoyt is together once again. pic.twitter.com/pGDlQFBZ72
— IRONMAN Triathlon (@IRONMANtri) May 23, 2023
The father and son duo gained immense recognition for their participation in the Boston Marathon, completing the race more than 30 times. They became fixtures at the marathon’s finish line, where people eagerly awaited their arrival. Their inspiring journey began in 1977 when Rick expressed his desire to participate in a 5-mile fundraising run for a paralyzed athlete. Dick pushed Rick Hoyt in his wheelchair for the entire race, and this marked the beginning of Team Hoyt.
As Rick grew older and was the right age for school, Judy, Rick’s mother, spent hours facilitating learning for her son, preparing him. He had two brothers, Russ and Rob. Hoyt, 61, died due to complications with his respiratory system, according to a family statement posted on The Hoyt Foundation’s Facebook page.
From Milestones to Movements: Team Rick Hoyt’s journey of inclusion
Their first race paved the way for over a thousand races, including marathons and Ironmans. In 2009, they achieved a significant milestone by completing their one-thousandth race at the Boston Marathon.
The impact of their story led them to establish The Hoyt Foundation in 1989, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. The foundation supports inclusion efforts for families raising children with disabilities and aims to create a more inclusive world in sports, homes, schools, and workplaces.
The Hoyts’ presence in the Boston Marathon became legendary, with their unwavering determination inspiring countless individuals. In recognition of their remarkable achievements, a statue depicting the father and son was erected near the marathon’s starting line in Hopkinton in 2013. Despite the tragic events of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, which prevented them from finishing that year’s race, they returned in 2014 to complete it.
Their involvement extended beyond the Boston Marathon, as they participated in more than 1,000 other races, including duathlons and triathlons. In 1992, they completed a 3,735-mile run and bike journey across the United States in just 45 days, showcasing their incredible endurance and dedication.
Rick Hoyt’s enduring legacy in the Boston marathon community
The news of Rick Hoyt’s passing elicited an outpouring of tributes from all corners. The Boston Athletic Association expressed its condolences to the Hoyt family and acknowledged Rick as a Boston Marathon icon. They emphasized that Rick would always be remembered as a Boston Marathon finisher and highlighted the Rick & Dick Hoyt Award, which honors individuals who exhibit the spirit of Team Hoyt through advocacy and inclusion.
Our hearts and prayers are with the Hoyt family. Rick passed away in his sleep this morning at the age of 61. We were just all together on Thursday. This family is truly special. #WBZ pic.twitter.com/ztWf4qXLk9
— STEVE BURTON (@STEVEBURTONWBZ) May 22, 2023
Former Boston Mayor Marty Walsh took to Twitter to pay tribute to Rick, describing him as an “icon and inspiration” who overcame obstacles that others deemed insurmountable. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey also shared a statement, referring to Rick and Dick as “true icons of the Boston Marathon” who inspired people far beyond Massachusetts’ borders.
The Boston sports community, including the Bruins and Red Sox, also expressed their condolences and shared memories of the Hoyts. The Red Sox referred to Rick as an inspiration and a true marathon icon, while the Bruins extended their sympathies to the Hoyt family. The Patriots also acknowledged Rick’s passing and joined in mourning the loss of the Boston Marathon icon.