John Hancock
Posted Apr 8, 2013
BOSTON, MA, April 8, 2013 – Dick and Rick Hoyt, the famed father and son marathoning team, were honored today by federal, state and local officials at the unveiling of a life-size bronze statue in their likeness. The “Yes You Can!” statue, created by sculptor Mike Tabor, was commissioned by John Hancock Financial and donated to the Town of Hopkinton. Joining John Hancock Executive Vice President James D. Gallagher and the Hoyts at the ceremony were Congressman Joseph P. Kennedy III, State Representative Carolyn Dykema, and John Mosher, Vice Chair, Hopkinton Board of Selectmen.
The statue was installed on the front lawn of the Center School, near the Boston Marathon starting line where Team Hoyt and other wheelchair athletes prepare before the Marathon. The Hopkinton Historical Commission, School Committee, and the Board of Selectman worked collaboratively to accept the gift from John Hancock.
“Dick and Rick Hoyt bring out the best in each other and encourage us to do the same, said Gallagher. “With this statue, John Hancock is proud to honor their remarkable legacy. It is our hope that by donating the statue to the Town of Hopkinton, it will serve as an inspiration for residents and visitors, including all Boston Marathon participants.”
“We are honored and humbled by this incredible gesture from John Hancock.,” said Dick Hoyt. “I’ve been saying this is like winning the Super Bowl for us, and we thank everyone who made it possible. This statue will symbolize the strength to overcome obstacles and adversity, and to persevere and pursue your dreams.”
“Dick and Rick Hoyt bring out the best in each other and encourage us to do the same. With this statue, John Hancock is proud to honor their remarkable legacy.”
“Dick and Rick Hoyt have spent over three decades proving there is little we cannot accomplish with teamwork, perseverance and compassion,” said Congressman Joe Kennedy. “Their athletic accomplishments, combined with their commitment to help those who are physically disabled, inspire each of us to challenge the accepted boundaries of our own experiences. I’d like to thank John Hancock and the Town of Hopkinton for making this fitting tribute possible.”
State Representative Carolyn Dykema added, “Dick and Rick Hoyt are a remarkable and inspiring team. I’m honored to join with John Hancock and the Town of Hopkinton to recognize their courage and their work to promote inclusion in both athletics and in all aspects of daily life.”
“All of us in Hopkinton have a special relationship with the Hoyts having seen them at the Marathon start for 30 years, and having had them visit our schools,” said Mr. Mosher. “We are grateful to John Hancock for making sure Team Hoyt’s inspiring message of “Yes You Can!” will forever be etched in our Town’s history.”
For over 30 years, Dick Hoyt has pushed or pulled Rick, who is a quadriplegic and has cerebral palsy, through the finish lines of more than 1,000 athletic events, including 30 Boston Marathons. 2013 will mark their 31st year. In addition to their athletic achievements, the Hoyts work tirelessly to help those who are physically disabled become active members of the community.