BOSTON – Rick Hoyt, a Boston Marathon icon who raced in his wheelchair with his father for decades, died Monday at age 61 after suffering health complications.
“It is with deep sadness that the Hoyt family announces the passing of our beloved brother and uncle, Rick Hoyt,” the Hoyt Foundation said in a statement. “Rick died of complications with his respiratory system.”
Rick, along with his father Dick, participated in countless road races and triathlons over the years. The couple completed 32 Boston Marathons together as Dick pushed his son along the 26.2-mile route from Hopkinton to Boston.
The father-son duo Team Hoyt ran their first Boston Marathon in 1980, quickly becoming fan favorites for their inspiring determination and spirit. The pair’s last race was in 2014.
Rick, who retired from racing in 2021, was also a pioneer in education. His mother, Judy Hoyt, changed the laws that allowed her son to be educated alongside his non-disabled peers.
“His family is heartbroken and asking for time to grieve and will share details as they become available,” the Hoyt Foundation added.
The Foundation noted that a decision on whether to delay Saturday’s Dick Hoyt Memorial “Yes You Can” road race will be made at a later date.
Dick died in March 2021 at the age of 80.
Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara ran the 127th Boston Marathon in April on behalf of the Hoyt Foundation.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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