Remembering Dick Hoyt

Distinguished Boston Marathoner, Father, Pioneer, and Icon

Dick Hoyt personified what it meant to be a Boston Marathoner, showing determination, passion, and love every Patriots' Day for more than three decades. He was not only a fan favorite who inspired thousands but also a loyal friend and father who took pride in spending quality time with his son Rick while running from Hopkinton to Boston.

As Team Hoyt, Dick Hoyt and his son Rick quickly became Boston Marathon legends after their first run in 1980. With Dick pushing Rick in a custom racing chair, they completed 32 Boston Marathons together, including a final finish in 2014. The pair’s bond and presence throughout the course became synonymous with the Boston Marathon. Team Hoyt’s 1,000th race together came at the 2009 Boston Marathon, and in 2015 Dick served as Grand Marshal of the race in recognition of his impact on the event and Para Athlete community.

Dick Hoyt was one of a kind. We sincerely miss Dick, and keep his many family and friends in our thoughts and prayers.

—The Boston Athletic Association