WCCO Spotlight: Senior Grand Masters Runner, Mark Hulsey Prepares with Mo Cooper for Boston Marathon
Why It Matters
The partnership demonstrates that with tailored support, athletes with disabilities can compete at the highest levels, prompting broader industry focus on inclusive training and sponsorship opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- •Mo Cooper, with cerebral palsy, qualifies for Boston Marathon
- •Partner Mark Hulsey helped beat Grandma’s Marathon qualifying time
- •Team Triumph Minnesota facilitated their training and support network
- •Community and caregivers organized a personalized send‑off for Mo
- •Their joint finish highlights inclusion in elite long‑distance racing
Summary
The WCCO Spotlight segment follows Minnesota runners Mo Cooper, a man with cerebral palsy, and his training partner Mark Hulsey as they gear up for the 2026 Boston Marathon, a race they plan to finish side‑by‑side.
The duo met through the nonprofit My Team Triumph Minnesota, which pairs athletes with disabilities with experienced runners. After qualifying at Grandma’s Marathon—finishing 32 minutes faster than the 3‑hour‑50‑minute cutoff—they earned a coveted Boston entry, underscoring the power of structured support and disciplined preparation.
Memorable moments include Mo’s declaration, “I think I could run like Flash,” and Mark’s comment about caring for Mo and sharing the experience. Mo’s mother is highlighted as his “number one fan,” while caregivers at MER staged a customized send‑off that reflected Mo’s love of the Flash character.
Their story illustrates how inclusive training programs and community backing can propel athletes with disabilities onto the world’s most prestigious stages, challenging stereotypes and expanding the narrative of elite endurance sport.
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