Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k logo
running

Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k

Date
August 22, 2026
Distance
5k

From the Organizer

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.

Distances & Pricing

5k8:30 AMRegister →

Race Location

About This Sport

From Endurance Grid's Founder

Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.

With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.

Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.

Running

From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k?
Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k is a running event held in Merchantville, NJ. Learn more about the different endurance sports here.
When and where is the Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k?
Saturday, August 22, 2026 in Merchantville, NJ at 5300 N Park Dr, Merchantville, NJ. Check the official event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
How do I register for the Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k?
Registration is handled through their official registration page. Confirm pricing, distances available, and sign up there.

Ed Espenshade Memorial 5k

Aug 22, 2026

Register →