Help Markelle Run the Cork City Marathon

Hi, my name is Markelle Taylor, and I'm fundraising so that I can go to Ireland to run the Cork City Marathon on Sunday, June 4.

For 18 years, I was incarcerated in the California prison system with a life sentence. To combat despair, I started running with the San Quentin 1,000 Mile Club under the inspiring coach Frank Ruona and volunteers from the Tamalpa Running Club, including coach Claire O'Brien. I ran 4 marathons and set a San Quentin record of 3 hours 16 minutes.

In 2019, I was parolled from San Quentin. Since then, I have competed in marathons in Boston, New York, Los Angeles, Humboldt and Chicago to inspire people who are facing adversities, whether they are lifers in prison, or prisoners in their own minds. Running changed my life, and I am passionate about helping others to change theirs. Wherever I go, I tell my story and work with organizations to achieve change, including the Marshall Project, and the Skid Row Running Club. I believe in redemption...one step at a time.

The Cork City Marathon will be my first international race and it will be an opportunity to see my coach, Claire O'Brien, her husband, and their baby Patrick. The funds will be used for my flight to Ireland, transportation, lodging, race entry fees, and to cover lost wages from my job as a cashier at United Market in San Rafael. I deeply appreciate your support.

Claire and me after a Tamalpa race