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Race profile

Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k

Overview

5K

Aug 22, 2026 • 8:30 AM EDTMerchantville, New Jersey, US

On our calendar since Jan 2026

Perks & Swag
Swag included

The read

Run Vibes summary

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Original listingRegistration & details — Full description from sourceExpand the official listing text (unchanged)

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. 

Swag/Awards

  • T Shirt
  • Finisher medals 
  • Overall and Age Group awards 

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.

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 lifes greatest challenges.

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