Meet our runners
Andrew McAllister & Ross Ormond
OCCUPATION:
Insurance Agent/Executive
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
We want to help represent Team Hoyt and have y’all be a part of the first ever Six Star Finisher Duo Team and show the world that inclusion is real and that athletes of all abilities can compete in major marathon racing. We have been racing in one of your amazing Blade chairs since 2017. We currently are doing well with our mission to be the first Six Star Finisher Duo Team in the world. Aside from Tokyo, Boston will be the only race left as we are set to run Berlin.
RACES COMPLETED:
San Antonio x3 - 4:09, 3:45, 3:43
Chicago - 3:21:33
NYC - 3:43:39
London - 3:21:37
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/champion/ross-ormond-926602
Bill & Chrissy Davidson
The Honorary Team Hoyt Duo
OCCUPATION:
Assistant Field Hockey Coach
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
In 2011, my dad had a massive stroke that was followed by two emergency brain surgeries removing a piece of his skull and then removing dead brain tissue. He then had a third to replace a piece of his skull removed to allow for brain swelling. He truly defied all the odds and survived. It will be 13 years in April since his stroke. One day, I thought, "I wonder if I could push my dad in a wheelchair and run together?". I asked him if he would want to run with me and be a team. I felt, if he can choose to fight every day, I can push him for 4 to 5 hours so he can walk across that finish line. He is an inspiring man and I love being able to share his journey. From that day on, we decided we wanted to try to do Boston together.
RACES COMPLETED:
San Diego Marathon 2016: 4 hours 19 minutes 29 seconds
Philadelphia Marathon 2016: 3 hours 44 minutes 49 seconds
* Pittsburgh Marathon 2018: 4 hours 57 minutes 05 seconds (With my dad) *
* Pittsburgh Marathon 2019: 5 hours 36 minutes 36 seconds (With my dad) *
* Pittsburgh Marathon 2023: 4 hours 52 minutes 36 seconds (With my dad) *
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/champion/christyn-davidson-890076
Kathy Logan
OCCUPATION:
Library Technician
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
I knew I wanted to run on a team that involved children, preferably with disabilities. I researched the charities through their websites. When I read the Hoyt Foundation mission - I looked no further. I knew that was the one!!! The way this charity began is such a heart warming family story. I believe in the Hoyt Foundation mission of full inclusion for disabled young people in all facets of life. This is shown by my involvement in all areas of disabilities most of my life.
RACES COMPLETED:
2022 - Kauai 7:00:00
New York City 6:32:53
2023 - London - 6:57:25
Chicago
Marine Corp
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/project/kathy-logan-raising-funds-for-the-hoyt-foundation-inc
Kai Terada-Herzer
OCCUPATION:
Investment Associate
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
I ran for Team Hoyt in 2022 and it was an amazing experience. I initially applied to run for Team Hoyt because I empathized with their mission to build the individual character, confidence, and self-esteem of disabled young people through inclusion in all aspects of daily life. My father is disabled and while he cannot run, I wanted to run for him and for everyone else who can't.
RACES COMPLETED:
2022 Boston Marathon: 3:32:30
2023 Boston Marathon: 2:58:15
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/project/kai-raising-funds-for-the-hoyt-foundation-inc-66801
Lyndsay Kuder
OCCUPATION:
Mental Health Counselor
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
Team Hoyt is not only a meaningful, inspiring charity to run for, but a blast of a team to run with. I got to know the Hoyt family when Nate ran for Team Hoyt in the 2022 Boston Marathon. The Hoyt family's competitive spirit matched my own competitive drive and I knew I had to run for Team Hoyt in Boston 2023 so that Nate's marathon medal would not be the only one hanging in the house. But running for Team Hoyt was so much more than a simple battle between me and my husband. It was both a humbling and inspiring experience. One that I would love to experience again, this time alongside Nate. Running together to raise awareness and funds for people with disabilities would be an experience to top all others.
RACES COMPLETED:
Boston Marathon 2023
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/project/kudersrunboston
Nate Kuder
OCCUPATION:
CFO Boston Public Schools
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
I shared the story of how I first heard about Team Hoyt with you when I first applied to join the 2022 Marathon team . I didn’t know the family then and didn’t yet know how much I would love being a part of this team and getting to know this family. I feel especially lucky that I got to know Rick, to meet the legend, but to really get to see his personality shine through. It makes me so happy that he did the “More Cowbell” skit with us and that we laughed together about it at the BAA 5K. Since this is the first marathon after his passing, I feel even more motivated to run for Team Hoyt and to honor his legacy. To be able to do this with Lyndsay (and, of course, Rey), will make this one of the most memorable experiences of my life.
RACES COMPLETED:
Boston Marathon 2022
Chicago Marathon 2023
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/project/kudersrunboston
Blake Molina
OCCUPATION:
Client Executive
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
In April of 2023, I pushed a wheelchair athlete in the Nashville Marathon through Kyle Pease Foundation. I was touched by the impact my team of 3 runners had on this individual with a disability as well as the impact it had on me. I have always loved distance running since I stopped playing organized sports in college. The sense of purpose for my running has been taken to a new level knowing that I can make this kind of impact. Running for more than just myself makes a lot of sense to me.
RACES COMPLETED:
Atlanta Marathon in 2016 4:30
New York City Marathon in 2019 3:49
Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon in 2021 4
Mississippi Gulf Coast Marathon in 2022 4
Nashville Marathon in 2023 6 hours (pushed athlete, Natalie Gomez, with team of 3 men ages 60 and 30.
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/project/blake-molina-raising-funds-for-the-hoyt-foundation-inc
Shawn Hoyt
OCCUPATION:
Lawyer
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
I have followed Dick and Rick Hoyt's inspiring achievements ever since I moved to Boston in the early 90s. I attended a few of the runs organized by Team Hoyt and met Dick, Rick, and members of the family. I am also good friends with Becca Pizzi who runs for Team Hoyt. I am an active ambassador with Team Hoyt and have run several races already as an ambassador. I am inspired every time by the outpouring of love and support for the Hoyt family at these events. I am also eager to get more involved by running with rider athletes to carry on the legacy of Dick and Rick Hoyt.
RACES COMPLETED:
Boston Marathon 2001 – 3:26
All of my prior marathons were in the 1980s and 1990s and were between 2:54 and 3:43
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/project/shawn-hoyt-raising-funds-for-the-hoyt-foundation-inc
Troy Hoyt
OCCUPATION:
Grounds Crew
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
I want to run for Team Hoyt to keep the tradition going! And so there’s still a Hoyt running in the race! This year is extra special to our family as it is the 10 year anniversary of the last time my Grandfather and Uncle ran Boston together.
RACES COMPLETED:
Boston Marathon 2021, 2022, 2023
Best Finish – 3:51
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/project/troy-raising-funds-for-the-hoyt-foundation-inc-66582
Zdeno Chara
OCCUPATION:
Former NHL Hockey Player
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
Dick and Rick have inspired me for many years. When I was captain of the Boston Bruins and we were playing for the Stanley Cup in 2011 I showed a video of Team Hoyt to my teammates prior to game 7. I truly believe the YES YOU CAN message from Dick and Rick carried us to that win and to be coming the Stanley Cup Champions. Now I get to give back by running for this amazing organization.
RACES COMPLETED:
Boston Marathon 2023
New York City Marathon 2023
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/project/zdeno-raising-funds-for-the-hoyt-foundation-inc-68634
Michael Houllahan
OCCUPATION:
Wealth Management Transformation Associate
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
As I think about the challenge of a marathon, few stories resonate as much as Dick and Rick Hoyt. Faced with an uncertain future and little hope, both were able to persevere, shatter expectations, and create an impact on the Boston community that will be remembered forever. Dick and Rick's story is one that I would be honored to share as I fundraise for the cause, and something that would be inspired to run faster for. I've heard countless stories like Dick and Rick's, where individuals were born with little hope when faced with disability, yet persevered through uncertainty. I sail every week (weather permitting in Boston) with Special Olympics Massachusetts, and I feel that completing the Boston Marathon with a Team Hoyt bib on would be an even bigger step showing my friends, families, and colleagues how important it is to advocate for those that may not have a voice to do it for themselves.
RACES COMPLETED:
First Boston Marathon
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
Nicole Woodbury
OCCUPATION:
Physical Therapist Assistant
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
Our oldest son was born in December 2016 and in April of 2018 he was diagnosed with a rare form of congenital muscular dystrophy. Our worlds were turned upside down. As of today his prognosis is unknown. Philip is developmentally delayed, nonverbal and has mobility issues, although he is able to walk. Since we received his diagnosis 5 years ago, we have been fighting and advocating for him. We are huge advocates of inclusion. My husband and I fought to have him included in a regular preschool classroom so that he could thrive and learn from his typical peers. We also recently started a young athletes program through the Special Olympics in our area so our son had a team to participate with. Inclusion of kids and adults with disabilities is now one of our biggest priorities and something we are extremely passionate about.
RACES COMPLETED:
First Boston Marathon
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/champion/nicole-woodbury-882135
Chris Tanaka
OCCUPATION:
News Anchor/Reporter
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
Growing up, I watched highlights of Dick and Rick every year on Marathon Monday. We didn't get Patriots Day off in New Hampshire, so it was always part of the race recap on WBZ News. They were as much a fabric of the race as the champions' laurels. I remember them being so heroic, so inspirational. So far away and untouchable. Fast forward a few decades, and I'm back in Boston working for the station I watched as a kid, WBZ...it's surreal. Unfortunately, I made my introduction to the Hoyt family on the day Rick died. Just days later, I was able to participate in the inaugural Dick Hoyt Memorial Yes You Can Run Together 5 miler and share a hug with Russ afterwards. My reverence and respect for this family, it's mission and how deeply interwoven it is to the community and race is beyond words.
RACES COMPLETED:
Cleveland Marathon 2018 and 2019. Times were approximately 4:40 and 4:45
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/project/chris-tanaka-raising-funds-for-the-hoyt-foundation-inc
Chris Byrne
OCCUPATION:
Police Sergeant
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
My Uncle, John Thompson completed the Boston Marathon twice in the wheelchair division. He was paralyzed in a motorcycle accident in his 20's and spent the majority of his life in a wheelchair. I spent a lot of my childhood associated with persons with disabilities; as John was the President of the New England Handicapped Skiing Association (NEHSA). I also volunteered every year at Special Olympics. I would like to raise money for this charity; as it pertains to supporting those with disabilities. Furthermore, I have grown up watching Mr. Hoyt and his son in the marathon each year.
RACES COMPLETED:
First Boston Marathon
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/project/christopher-andrew-raising-funds-for-the-hoyt-foundation-inc
Alyssa Vereneau
OCCUPATION:
Physical Therapist
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
Running the Boston Marathon for team Hoyt in 2022 was one of the best experiences of my life. I love that they are a family-run charity, so you know that the cause we are raising money for means even more to them. I still keep in touch with the family and wear my singlet from 2022 in races! Always representing Team Hoyt!
RACES COMPLETED:
2017 Hartford Marathon: 4:13
2018 Hartford Marathon: 4:01
2019 Hartford Marathon: 3:57
2021 Hartford Marathon: 3:51
2022 Boston Marathon: 4:04:04
2022 NYC Marathon: 4:05
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/champion/alyssa-vereneau-500299
Nicole Comeau
OCCUPATION:
Manger of Operations, Cardiovascular Medicine
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
I first had the honor of meeting Dick and Rick Hoyt at my first Feaster Five race back in the
early 90’s. I was overwhelmed with the love and commitment that they had, not only for each other, but for the sport and the community. I cheered them on at many Boston
Marathons after that and always tried to follow their accomplishments over the years.
They truly inspire me.
The Hoyt’s story is remarkable. To have the opportunity to represent this charity and to help carry on the legacy the Hoyt’s have created is an honor.
RACES COMPLETED:
First Boston Marathon
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/champion/nicole-comeau-937741
Sid & Alee Starkman
OCCUPATIONS:
Facial Plastic Surgeon
Registered Nurse
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
As a Facial Plastic Surgeon, a large amount of my practice and training involved working with pediatric patients born with facial deformities
associated with congenital diseases. Being able to support an organization like Team Hoyt that focuses on inclusion for young people with disabilities would be an inspirational way to participate in Boston Marathon. My husband Sid Starkman is on Team Hoyt. And
I love the cause of supporting children with disabilities! I want to raise awareness and give to the team.
RACES COMPLETED:
Sid - 10+ marathons in Tucson, Arizona R+R, San Diego, Las Vegas, Nashville, Seattle.
Alee - San Diego Marathon in June 2023. 3 hours 23 minutes
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/champion/sid-starkman-881746
Caitlin Forrest
OCCUPATION:
Director of Stewardship (Fundraising)
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
Growing up, I watched my grandfather Pat Forrest support Team Hoyt and the US Special Olympics. I walked, jog, and ran the Forrest Memorial Road Race benefitting the Special Olympics every year for 20 years, and every time I was always inspired by those with disabilities who joined in the run and smiled the whole way. It was amazing even a few times to run that race with Rick and Dick Hoyt themselves. Team Hoyt has always been a part of the Forrest Family and it would be a great honor for me to run my first Boston marathon with Team Hoyt. Hearing of Rick's passing this year, I knew I had to start training with the hopes of joining Team Hoyt in Boston next year in his honor. I am grateful to join the team to run in their memory and for my grandfather, who has also run Boston several times.
RACES COMPLETED:
First Boston Marathon
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/champion/caity4hoyts
Becca Pizzi
OCCUPATION:
Marathon Runner, triathlete
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
I would do anything for Team Hoyt. Dick and Rick are life long fiends and I now support the family in their efforts to carry on the legacy that Dick, Judy and Rick created.
RACES COMPLETED:
World record holder and 2-time champion of the 7 7 7 World Marathon Challenge
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/campaign/teamhoyt2024
Philip Dumontet
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/campaign/teamhoyt2024
Eleanor Jennings
OCCUPATION:
Program Manager – Summit Partners
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
I feel passionate about raising money to support inclusion of all kinds. The meaningful inclusion and assistance of individuals with disabilities is of great importance to me as I have multiple family members with diverse disabilities. During my high school and college years, I dedicated my time to volunteer at a children's clinic that provided care and assistance to children dealing with a wide range of physical and mental disabilities. This personal connection, coupled with my firsthand experience witnessing the positive impact of organizations like Team Hoyt, fuels my passion for raising funds and community awareness.
RACES COMPLETED:
First Boston Marathon
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/champion/elle-jennings-888472
Andrea McCollem
OCCUPATION:
Paraprofessional Melrose Public Schools
RUNNING FOR TEAM HOYT BECAUSE:
Team Hoyt has the most inspiring message for not only disabled youth but for individuals of all abilities and ages – “Yes you can”. This is a phrase that I have begun to use almost every day with my children, the students I work with, and even friends and family that need an extra boost of confidence.
I believe so strongly in inclusion and the mission of Team Hoyt to build character, confidence, self-esteem, and equal opportunity for America’s disabled youth.
RACES COMPLETED:
Boston Marathon
October 2021 – 4:26:04
April 2022 – 4:22:18
FUNDRAISING PAGE:
https://www.givengain.com/ap/andrea-mccollem-raising-funds-for-the-hoyt-foundation-inc-52616/#timeline
