By Vicki Bradley, Contributing Writer
Hopkinton – Federal, state and local officials joined John Hancock Financial representatives today at the Center School in Hopkinton to unveil the life-size statue honoring famed father and son, Dick and Rick Hoyt. The statue was commissioned by John Hancock and donated to the town of Hopkinton.
The Hoyts are known for their annual participation in the Boston Marathon, among many other athletic endeavors. This year marks their 31st year participating in the marathon. Dick Hoyt has pushed his son, Rick, who is a quadriplegic and has cerebral palsy, through the finish line at Boston thirty times. They are known as “Team Hoyt”, and they have become a local symbol of strength and inspiration in overcoming obstacles and adversity.
The bronze statue, created by sculptor Mike Tabor, is titled “Yes You Can!” The motivational title was chosen to inspire residents, visitors and marathon participants to persevere and pursue their dreams.
“The Hoyts inspire me and make me interested in the things they do,” said Christina Galego, a first-grade student at Center School who wrote a letter of admiration to give to the Hoyts.
The statue has been permanently installed on the front lawn of the Center School. The placement is fitting as it is near the Boston Marathon starting line, and where wheelchair athletes prepare for the race. According to John Mosher, the vice chair of the Hopkinton Board of Selectmen, there was “no better placement than Center School as it is a reminder of the bond between parent and child.”
State Rep. Carolyn Dykema, D-Holliston, and U.S. Rep. Joseph P. Kennedy III, 4th District, were also in attendance at the ceremony, and honored the Hoyts for their remarkable athletic achievements, as well as their commitment to helping others.