Twenty prisoners at Maghaberry Prison have gone the distance – literally – completing a full marathon within the prison grounds to raise money for a children’s cancer charity.
The group of inmates, ranging in age from 21 to 70, ran the equivalent of the Belfast City Marathon — all 26.2 miles — on the same day as the official event, 4 May. Their unique effort took place entirely inside the walls of the high-security facility.
Joining them were two teams of prison staff, including Deputy Governor Claire Graham, all pounding the pavement in support of the Cancer Fund for Children.
“This is the third Belfast Marathon held in Maghaberry Prison. We started this in 2023, and it’s been an annual event for the staff and prisoners ever since,” explained Governor Tracy Megrath.
The initiative has become a regular fixture, with inmates following a structured programme that kicked off in January. It’s not just about running — participants have been learning about health, nutrition, and fitness in the run-up to race day.
To ensure authenticity, marathon organisers approved a designated 26.2-mile route within the prison. It may not have had the city crowds, but it was every bit as demanding.
Already, several hundred pounds have been raised through staff and prisoner donations. Organisers expect the final total to exceed £1,000.
Ms Megrath emphasised the rehabilitation value of the initiative. “The Prison Service challenges and supports all those who are sent to us by the courts, and through various rehabilitation projects and purposeful activity, we promote a sense of achievement and prepare them for their return to their community.”
The Cancer Fund for Children praised the effort, highlighting the impact the funds would have.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Northern Ireland Prison Service at Maghaberry Prison for taking on this challenge to support families affected by cancer. Every week in Northern Ireland, three more children and young people are diagnosed with cancer, and many others are living with the impact of a parent’s diagnosis.
The funds raised will help us provide vital support in the hospital, in the community, and at our therapeutic centre, Daisy Lodge – ensuring young people don’t have to face cancer alone,” said Cormac McMullan, Community Fundraising and Engagement lead for the charity.
The event wasn’t just about charity — it was about change. For the inmates involved, it offered a renewed sense of purpose, a break from routine, and the satisfaction of doing something meaningful.
Small steps. Big impact. As prison initiatives go, this one’s not just running laps — it’s changing lives.
With grit, determination, and community spirit, prisoners and staff at Maghaberry have once again shown that rehabilitation can take many forms — even the form of a marathon. Through sweat and solidarity, they’ve raised not only funds but also awareness, proving that every step counts when it’s taken for a good cause.
