In a powerful show of grit, growth, and redemption, 45 inmates at the Utah State Correctional Facility crossed a different kind of finish line completing the prison’s first-ever half marathon.

What began as one man’s idea, sparked by a prison documentary, has now grown into a full-fledged movement behind bars. The event was more than just 13.1 miles it was about reclaiming identity, fighting addiction, and proving that change is always possible.

From a Tiny TV to a Huge Dream

The heart of the program is Casey Vanderheuf, a former college athlete serving time for charges tied to substance abuse. His turning point came after watching the documentary 26.2 to Life on a small TV in his prison cell. The film chronicled the San Quentin Prison running club in California and it lit a fire in him.

“I felt connected to them,” he said after the race. “It feels great to come back to life.”

Vanderheuf proposed starting a running club inside Utah’s prison. Two years later, the dream became reality with the creation of “Fit From Within”, a club designed not just to promote physical health, but to support recovery and improve mental well-being for incarcerated individuals.

Running in Circles, Breaking the Cycle

Held in an outdoor exercise yard, the half marathon wasn’t your typical road race. Runners did 39 laps around a small field to hit 13.1 miles cheered on by fellow inmates, staffers, volunteers, and even state lawmakers.

Vanderheuf finished the race in 1 hour and 37 minutes, surpassing his personal goal. And while he was visibly exhausted, he walked a few laps after finishing, hyping up the runners still pushing through.

“This is a snapshot of what could await me,” he said, referring to his upcoming parole hearing and a possible shot at the Boston Marathon someday.

Community, Connection, and Change

The running club isn’t open to all inmates participation is a privilege earned through good behavior. Runners undergo a clearance process that takes weeks, and the events are carefully coordinated for safety. Still, interest is growing.

Even Rep. Katy Hall (R-Ogden) joined in. After seeing the same documentary that inspired Vanderheuf, she reached out to help — only to find the program already underway. Now, she runs and volunteers alongside the inmates, supporting legislation that allows private donations to fund gear like shoes and treadmills.

Signs of Hope

Organizers say the program is already showing results. According to Ellie Madenberg, a recreation therapist with the Department of Corrections, surveys from inmates reveal reduced levels of depression and anxiety after each run.

It’s not just about fitness it’s about mental and emotional recovery. And it’s working.

The Road Ahead

After races with names like “Love Yourself” and “March Madness,” the runners are already training for a 15-mile race next month, with eyes set on a full marathon in the future.

Even those who couldn’t run, like injured inmate Alex Mendoza, joined in as cheerleaders. “It brings everyone together,” he said. “It puts a smile on people’s faces. You don’t get to see that often.”

💬 Final Thoughts

In a place built around confinement, a simple act like running is creating something extraordinary hope. Programs like “Fit From Within” don’t just change routines. They change lives.

As Vanderheuf put it:

“I’m ready to go home and be a great dad and husband.”