Hometown: Topeka
Sport: Athletics (Track & Field)
Marquel has been involved with Special Olympics for more than four years, competing in multiple sports and proudly representing the Topeka Stars. For him, Special Olympics has been life-changing. It’s opened doors to travel, meet incredible people, and take part in major events like the Big 12 Basketball Tournament and Kansas City Chiefs games.
“Special Olympics has changed my life in many ways,” Marquel said. “I’ve been able to travel to different states, meet famous people, and represent Kansas. It’s helped me grow as an athlete and as a person.”
A talented multi-sport athlete, Marquel’s love for athletics runs deep. In high school, he was a standout competitor at Washburn Rural High School, where he competed in football, diving, and track and field. His favorite event, the 110m hurdles, led him to a Kansas 6A State Championship his senior year, an achievement he remains incredibly proud of.
Marquel’s journey hasn’t come without challenges. Adjusting to new levels of competition can be difficult, but he approaches every opportunity with positivity and determination. “I’m proud that people see me as a caring, nice, and personable guy,” he said. “I always try to bring good energy to everything I do.”
When he’s not training, Marquel works at Petland in Topeka, where he has been employed for four years as a Kennel Technician. He loves cleaning kennels, training puppies, and connecting with the animals. “I absolutely love my job,” he said. “And they love me too.”
Preparing for the 2026 USA Games, Marquel is focused on staying strong and sharp. He trains at his local gym several times a week and plans to work with coaches as the weather warms up to refine his form and speed. His goal is clear: to give his best and bring home gold.
This will be his second time competing at a USA Games. He won gold in the 2022 USA Games in Orlando. His goal is to one day compete in a World Games do he can race against athletes from across the world.
“Running track is my favorite sport,” Marquel said. “Getting to represent Kansas at the USA Games means everything to me. I’m ready to work hard and make my team proud.”
