From Prison Yard to Marathon: Rahsaan Thomas’s Unbelievable Journey

From Inmate to Marathoner The Inspiring Journey of Rahsaan Thomas

From behind bars to the NYC Marathon Rahsaan Thomas’s remarkable journey.

Imagine running a marathon, not through bustling city streets or scenic landscapes, but within the confined walls of San Quentin Prison. No skyscrapers to marvel at, no adoring fans cheering you on. Just 105 laps in a prison yard, dodging rogue geese and flying basketballs. That’s the marathon Rahsaan Thomas completed, with all the pit stains and cinderblock legs to prove it.

When Thomas crossed the finish line, he couldn’t help but exclaim, “Woo! For all the people who come in last, this is for you.” Sure, he may have snagged the last place, but damn, he finished a marathon. In September’s mind-blowing documentary, “26.2 to Life,” which captures the grueling San Quentin Prison Marathon, Thomas shares his story of triumph.

But let’s not forget, Thomas’s journey to marathon fame wasn’t a straightforward one. In 2000, he was sentenced to 55 years and six months to life for second-degree murder and other charges. During his time behind bars, Thomas co-hosted a podcast nominated for a Pulitzer Prize, wrote for The Marshall Project, and founded Empowerment Avenue, a collective that uses journalism and art to tackle trauma and intergenerational incarceration.

In an epic twist of fate, California Governor Gavin Newsom commuted Thomas’s sentence in January 2022. After a widely publicized delay, he finally walked out of San Quentin Prison in February 2023, ready to embrace a new chapter in his life.

So, what does a man who became a marathoner in prison do when he leaves prison? Well, he runs the New York City Marathon, of course! Rahsaan Thomas traded the prison yard for the bustling streets of NYC, and in an exclusive interview, he spills all the details.

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But before we dive into the interview, let’s talk about the important stuff—Thomas’s post-marathon meal. While he hasn’t fully decided, he knows it needs to be high in protein and low in carbs. After all, his body converts muscle and energy faster than it does fat. So, chicken parm might have to wait for another day.

Now, let’s get down to business. Since his release in February, Thomas has been feeling incredibly grateful. Yes, parole came as a shock, but who wouldn’t be overjoyed to be home 33 years earlier than expected? He’s soaking up life’s simple pleasures, from attending basketball and baseball games to building up his savings like there’s no tomorrow. It’s safe to say Rahsaan Thomas is living his best life.

But, as the documentary highlighted, leaving jail with a murder conviction was unimaginable 20 years ago. Society’s perception of crime and punishment has evolved, and Thomas believes we’ve come a long way. He emphasizes the need to address the underlying causes of criminal behavior, rather than merely locking people up. He’s all about making real change and not just sitting in a cell, racking up society’s expenses.

When Thomas hits the New York City Marathon pavement, he won’t be your average runner. His anonymity comes as a relief. While he regrets his past actions, he’s not ashamed of them. He knows that given his upbringing and experiences, he’s made choices that others might have made too. What he’s truly looking forward to is the energy and support of the running community. The love and cheers from strangers will provide the motivation he needs to cross that finish line before the sunset.

As for that internal monologue when he hits mile 20? Thomas passionately exclaims, “I made it through the Bronx, baby! Let’s go!” The sheer joy and determination in his voice are contagious.

But running isn’t just punishment for Thomas—it’s also penance and redemption. He willingly embraces the pain, knowing it’s a small price to pay for the attention he can bring to important causes. He believes in holding himself accountable for his actions and wants to pay his debt to society in a meaningful way. By spreading a philosophy of inclusion and showcasing the incredible work of those who have walked the same path, he hopes to create a world where love and compassion prevail.

Rahsaan Thomas’s journey from the prison yard to the marathon is one for the books. His resilience, determination, and zest for life are truly inspiring. So, let’s all cheer him on as he takes on the New York City Marathon, proving that no hurdle is too high to overcome.

Hey Fashionistas!

What do you think of Rahsaan Thomas’s incredible journey from prison to marathon runner? Can you imagine running a marathon in a prison yard? Are you feeling inspired by his story of redemption and triumph? Share your thoughts and cheer Rahsaan on in the comments below!

And don’t forget to tune in for the New York City Marathon to catch a glimpse of Thomas as he runs towards victory. Let’s show him some love and support as he continues to break barriers and inspire us all.