Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k

Race Overview

Join us for this new 5k to honor the memory of Ed Espenshade. Ed was an influential member of the South Jersey racing scene for many years.

Event Details

Date: August 22, 2026

Location: 5300 N Park Dr, Merchantville, NJ

Race URL: Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k

Swag and Awards

• T-Shirt: Participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt.
• Finisher Medals: All finishers will be awarded medals.
• Overall Awards: Prizes for top finishers.
• Age Group Awards: Awards will also be given for various age categories.

About Ed Espenshade

While growing up in Mount Holly, New Jersey, Ed Espenshade played catch with his dad, attended Phillies and Sixers games, and dreamed of being an athlete. But soon after he acquired a paper route as a twelfth birthday present, Ed was hit by a car while attempting to cross a road. After blood was drawn during an examination in the emergency room, Ed received shocking news: he had diabetes.

Overcoming Challenges

As his path took an unexpected turn, Ed describes how he became more determined than ever to pursue his athletic goals. After an unsuccessful attempt at soccer, Ed eventually found his home as a cross country runner in high school and college. It seemed that Ed was defying all odds as he continued to run hundreds of road races that included four marathons. But everything changed in 2003 when Ed found himself face down on the street during a training run and soon received another stunning diagnosis: he had a rare nonmalignant brain tumor. As he details his continuing journey with two serious health conditions, Ed shines a light on the importance of keeping hope, faith, and perseverance alive in the face of life's greatest challenges.

Charitable Contribution

Part of the proceeds will be donated to Type 1 Diabetes research.