SPORTS 'N SPOKES

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Angels on the Run

Volunteers of MyTeam Triumph help athletes achieve marathon status

With the holidays right around the corner it seemed fitting that we spent the weekend before Christmas with a group of angels during the 12k’s of Christmas 12k/6k run in Gilbert, Ariz.

And while angels and marathons don’t typically go hand-in-hand, these particular angels are not of the celestial type but rather a group of volunteers belonging to the organization MyTeam Triumph - Wings of Phoenix (MTT).

MTT was inspired by Team Hoyt, a father/son marathon running pair, and works to provide an athletic ride-along program catered to those with disabilities who would normally not be able to experience endurance events such as triathlons or road races.

The volunteers of MTT, also known as “angels,” use specially converted racing chairs and act as the legs and arms of their athlete to push, pull, swim, carry, or bike them through a variety of marathon-type events. The athlete, known as “Captains,” receive all the recognition of having completed the event.

There was plenty of holiday spirit during the pre-run event that included a Christmas bazaar, Santa’s pet village, and holiday choir. While rain clouds threatened above, the hot coco, coffee, and warm food vendors helped maintain Christmas spirit.  

As the start time grew closer, Captains and Angels were paired up and prepared for the coming challenge. And for the Captains, it would be an experience they would not soon forget as seen in their delighted expressions.

Here's a look at how it all got started. The father/son Team Hoyt.

 

For more information visit MyTeam Triumph online.

Check out photos of the event on our Facebook page.

 

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