New Bedford Half Marathon

New Bedford Half Marathon. As of 3 p.m., more than 1,850 people were officially registered for the 13.1-mile race around the city, organized by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. Some runners who have earned a level of celebrity — locally, or even nationally — are certain to attract quite a few fans as they make their way along the course.

Team Hoyt, made up of 68-year-old Dick Hoyt and his son, Rick, whom Dick pushes in a wheelchair, have run the New Bedford Half at least 20 times. The Hoyts were at the YMCA on Saturday, selling and signing copies of their book, "It's Only a Mountain," and DVDs featuring the duo. They have been an inspiration to many. Since 1977, Dick has pushed Rick, born a quadriplegic with cerebral palsy, in hundreds of races, from 5Ks to Iron Man triathlons.

Another inspiring team is Mark and Jay Kruger, SouthCoast residents and former contestants of NBC's weight-loss competition TV show "The Biggest Loser." The brothers got into shape, losing at least 220 lbs. together and have kept up their healthy, active lifestyle since the show wrapped up last April. Today, they will attempt their longest race to date, along with their brother Scott, a New Bedford firefighter.