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: 2026-08-22

Location: 5300 N Park Dr, Merchantville, NJ

URL: Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k

Swag and Awards

• T-Shirt: Participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt.
• Finisher Medals: All finishers will receive a medal.
• Overall Awards: Awards will be given to the top overall finishers.
• Age Group Awards: Special recognition for age group categories.

Ed's Story

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.

Perseverance Through 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.

A Life-Altering Diagnosis

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.