Matt Brown And Running Partner Win Fight To Run NYC Marathon

BOSTON (CBS) – Matt Brown got his wish Thursday.

He will take part in the New York City Marathon.

Brown, who was paralyzed in 2010 while playing hockey for Norwood High School, has teamed up with his hometown friend and veteran Lucas Carr to run several marathons and half-marathons. Two years ago, they ran the Boston Marathon.

But when Brown and Carr applied to run in this fall's New York City Marathon, they were denied, because the only people allowed were those who could power themselves.

Brown and Carr have a specially designed three-wheel chair that Lucas pushes, while Matt provides moral and verbal support.

Brown refused to give up and launched a campaign to fight the decision.

The race organizers, the New York Road Runners, said on Tuesday they would take another look at the situation.

Brown's father Michael told WBZ-TV in an email Thursday afternoon the NYRR "have changed their stance and will allow Matt and Luke to participate in the upcoming NYC Marathon!"

A NYRR spokesperson sent WBZ-TV the following statement Thursday:

"We work very hard to accommodate participants overcoming great odds to compete in the ING New York City Marathon, and NYRR is allowing Mr. Carr and Matt Brown in the race this year given our special efforts to recognize and show solidarity with Boston. We are working on details on how best to accommodate them and ensure the safest and best race for all of the more than 45,000 participants."

The New York Marathon will be held Sunday, November 3.