In its 20th year, San Quentin Rehabilitation Center’s 1000 Mile Running Club has entered a new era by passing the baton to resident Greg Stephens as new club president.

When SQ News chased Stephens down to talk about his new role as leader of the two-decade-old organization, he said a person can find a lot more than leg cramps and aching muscles out on the track.

“This club is a place where people become part of a community,” Stephens said. “Everybody is welcome to join us; all you need to become a member is the desire to run.”

TJM: When did you first get involved with San Quentin’s 1000 Mile Running Club, and what led you to become president?

GS: During the Covid quarantine of 2022, I noticed a flyer promoting the 1000 Mile Running Club. Whenever I was allowed to go to the Lower Yard, I used the opportunity to run. It gave me a sense of balance and it felt good to exercise. When the quarantine was over, I started running with the club. My passion for running grew, and I started training for upcoming events. I was hooked. For me, running is a meditative experience and I always look forward to getting out on the track and getting into the zone. It’s a place where I can find peace.

TJM: And how did you become the club’s president?

GS: I became president when former president Tommy Wickerd paroled. I started out by setting up running events. Wickerd took me under his wing and showed me how things are done, so when he went home, I took on the responsibilities. 

TJM: What are some of the responsibilities that come with being the club leader?

GS: I am responsible for overseeing and helping the running community in any way possible. I make sure practice and events are successful and positive for everybody. I work closely with the outside coaches on scheduling. I post promotional flyers, hang our banner, set up cones and water stations for the events. I also set up the electronic timer and pass out transponders that track the runners’ lap times.  My biggest responsibility of being club president is to encourage and support every runner out here in achieving the goals they set for themselves.

TJM: Can you share some insight on what you think draws the runners out onto the track?

GS: The positive energy displayed out here by the running community is contagious. Everybody is welcome to join us out here on the track. We support all runners no matter what their fitness level. We don’t care about age, race, gender, or religious beliefs. This club is a safe place to be part of the community. A person only has to have the desire to run. Running gives me a purpose; I have done a lot of self-reflection while spinning laps. There’s a lot of camaraderie within the running community and I think that’s what attracts people most.

TJM: Can you talk a little more about the outside volunteer coaches and how they help the club?

GS: Over the last 20 years, there have been countless coaches and volunteers that are passionate about helping the running community. Their tireless efforts continue to display the compassion they feel toward helping runners achieve their goals. We’re so lucky to have coaches Tim and Diana Fitzpatrick, along with Jim Maloney and so many others who share their knowledge and continued support. The coaches teach running techniques, track runners’ progress, and help them work through injuries. The club wouldn’t be what it is today without the outside volunteers.

TJM: Can you talk about what the future looks like for the club and do you plan to implement any changes?

GS: The future of the club looks limitless. We have grown tremendously since I started with it in 2022. The amount of support we have is amazing. People have taken notice and followed suit by getting running clubs going in other institutions. As for any changes, I just want to keep what we have thriving.

TJM: Any last words?

GS: Thank you to everybody who supports the 1000 Mile Club. Let’s Go!