Joe Hyder

Joe Hyder graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1973 where he was valedictorian of his class. At the age of 26, Joe began competing in running events such as the Boston Marathon. Joe ran in this event 5 times from 1985-1989. Joe also competed in the Marine Corp Marathon as well as many other local events. In 2006, his boys Cross Country team won a State Championship. In 2006, his boys Cross Country team won a State Championship. In 1990, Joe became the Head Girls Track & Field coach. Joe continuously had many girls and teams competing at the state level for over 25 years. The fall of 2017 Joe was at Montreat Track facility preparing to mark the cross country course. He was feeling tired and sluggish which is uncharacteristic for him. Joe decided to go to the doctor and after many visits and not getting better they finally diagnosed him with a disease called Polymyositis. This disease caused Joe to have to thing and lung issues. He has battled this disease for over 4 years and has had difficulty walking and has been practically bed ridden for 2 years. Joe has made tremendous strides in battling this disease ach day seems to be feeling better.