The 1000 Mile Club held this year’s first track event on San Quentin Rehabilitation Center’s Lower Yard as its three-mile track meet started with over 100 persons walking a lap for those who could not run.

Volunteer Tim Fitzpatrick said he felt the energy of the event that took place on February 27. “This is probably our biggest run ever,” said Fitzpatrick. “We have over 90 runners and the running at San Quentin is at an all-time high compared to the last 27 years.”

Third-year club member Bradley Ware sauntered around the track with no agenda in regard to his own performance. “I just want to improve on my time or my length of miles completed, because improvement is relative to where you started,” said Ware. “Not everyone is José, Hugo, or Markelle.”

Ware said he respected 1000 Mile Club legends, current residents José Fajardo and Hugo Dimas, as well as former record holder Markelle “The Gazelle” Taylor.

“Today, they put the fun back in the event,” said resident Lee Covarrubias. “Running can be hard, but I get more out of it within this group, who has become like a second family to me.”

Fitzpatrick added, “Thirty-five people work out every Monday night because our club is more than running; it’s gathering, fitness, and a team that leads to camaraderie within all people.”

On February 27, there were more people competing than ever before.