Dick Hoyt, Iconic Fixture Of Boston Marathon, Dead At 80

By Jason Hall

March 17, 2021

Dick Hoyt, heralded for pushing his son, Rick, during the Boston Marathon for decades, died Wednesday (March 17) at the age of 80.

Hoyt, who dealt with recent health issues, passed away in his sleep, CBS Boston reports.

The Hoyts were become a fixture of the Boston Marathon after first competing in 1981, when Dick first pushed his son Rick, who was born a spastic quadriplegic with cerebral palsy, in the annual race. The duo had previously competed together in marathons nationwide beginning in 1977.

"Dick Hoyt was one-of-a-kind. We will sincerely miss Dick, and are keeping his many family and friends in our thoughts and prayers," said the BAA, which organizes the Boston Marathon, via NECN.

Dick Hoyt retired from running several years ago and was replaced Bryan Lyons, who died suddenly last year.

Dick and Rick Hoyt competed in more than 1,100 marathons and triathlons together prior to Dick's retirement. The duo first competed in a five-mile fundraising race in 1977, when Rick was 15, according to BAA's website.

After the race, Rick told his father, "Dad, when I'm running, it feels like I'm not handicapped."

Dick Hoyt intended to compete in his final Boston Marathon in 2013, but was unable to finish due to the deadly bombing near the finish line, so instead returned in 2014. He was honored as the Grand Marshal of the 2015 race after his retirement.

Photo: Getty Images

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.