Inspiration

We’ve all seen these guys by now.  It may be old news, but I still feel inspired, (and yes, choked up) each and every time I watch a video or an interview, or read an article about this incredible father/son team- Team Hoyt.  Dick Hoyt runs marathons and triathlons with his son, Rick, who suffers from cerebral palsy.  Since Dick and his wife Judy were fist told that their son should be institutionalized because he stood no chance of living a normal life, lacking the ability to walk and talk, they were determined to make his life worth living.  In 1977, Rick told his dad that he wanted to participate in a 5 mile race that was to benefit a lacrosse player who had been paralyzed in an accident.  Dick had no experience with long distance running, but agreed to push his son’s wheel chair so that he could participate.  After the race, Rick told his father,  ”Dad, when I’m running, it feels like I’m not handicapped.” From that day forward, Dick and Rick have been an example of true dedication, determination, and love.  In the last 30 years, they’ve completed nearly 1,000 races together, including 6 ironmen competitions- the ultimate physical test for top triathletes.  Since the first time I saw them participating in a triathlon on TV, they’ve been a source of inspiration for me.  Those dark, cold mornings when the act of getting out of bed seems miserable, and running sounds torturous, thinking of these guys is enough to push through the early morning grogginess, put on my sneakers, and go.

Click image link to visit Team Hoyt’s website