14 Apr 2010 No Comments
Boston Marathon Spotlight: John Wallaces II and III for Team Hoyt
We all know that New England tends to bring unpredictable weather, especially on Marathon Monday. So far the weather experts are predicting 59 and partly cloudy, but keep in mind that in 2007, it was a chilly 37 degrees with rain and snow. Thankfully, John Wallace III is no stranger to running in different weather conditions. In 2004, he ran across the country from Westport, WA to Tybee Island, GA. He ran the 3,800 miles in 124 days, leaving Washington on his dad’s birthday, September 26, and arriving in Georgia on his mom’s birthday, January 27. You might think that John has spent enough time on the roads for one lifetime, but he has plans to hit the roads again this fall. This time, he will be trying to break the Guinness World Record held by Frank Giannino, and to do so, he will need to run from LA to New York City in 44 days, 11 hours and 13 minutes.
Before he embarks on that journey, John will be participating in his 11th marathon and his first Boston Marathon. Not only will he be running for the amazing Team Hoyt Foundation, but he will also get to run alongside his dad, (who, by the way, he inspired to do a cross country run of his own, from Lake Superior in Marquette, Michigan, to The Gulf of Mexico in Biloxi, Mississippi). We got some insight from John and John’s dad (John Wallace II) about this inspiring experience.
Why are you running and raising money for Team Hoyt?
John II: I have run in many races and raised money on my own for charity. I believe that raising money and running brings awareness to the charity itself, and this awareness is sometimes just as valuable as donations. Running for Team Hoyt is a fantastic opportunity to raise money and run along side the inspirational Dick and Rick Hoyt.
John III: This will be my 11th marathon run but none have been so prestigious and none have ever been for a cause. It’s time to give back because running has given me so much. Team Hoyt has graciously accepted me (and my dad) on to the 2010 team to raise funds and awareness for the Hoyt Foundation and their mission “to integrate disabled people into everyday life by educating the able-bodied about challenges faced by a disabled person”. Team Hoyt’s message is, “Yes You Can!” and I can help spread this message by running and fundraising.
What is your best training tip?
John II: Train for the race you are doing, don’t worry about other peoples race or goals. Keep your focus on crossing over the finish line. I learned that hydration and eating healthy are important, but having the right shoes for your feet is without a doubt the most essential tip.
John III, out of the 11 marathons you have run, which one is your favorite?
John III: Finishing the Richmond, VA Marathon with my wife
What is the best thing about being on Team Hoyt?
John II: Being able to meet Dick and Rick Hoyt and raise money for their cause will be one of the best things that has ever happened to me. Because they have inspired me and so many others, this will be a truly remarkable first Boston Marathon experience.
What’s on your ipod?
John II: Aerosmith, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, U2, and Metallica
John Wallace II and III will be doing what Dick and Rick Hoyt do at every race, conquering the roads together and raising money for a great cause. The Hoyt Foundation is dedicated to building the individual character, self-confidence, and self-esteem of America’s disabled young people through inclusion in all facets of daily life, including family and community activities, especially sports, at home, in schools, and in the workplace. The team is truly an inspirational powerhouse in the running community, and their signature message, “Yes, you can!” helps empower everyone.
To help John II and John III reach their fundraising goal, visit their FirstGiving page.
Good luck and see you on Monday!
