Ultra marathoner Ed Ettinghausen has more US and world records than any other runner on the planet. “I’ve done 51 100-mile races and am going for a new record this year,” the 61 year old Murrieta resident says. Unlike marathons which are 26.2 mile races, ultra marathons are grueling 100 mile races run over a 24 hour period.
Ettinghausen has run more hundred+ mile races than anyone else – 247 to be exact. And the 6’2,” 186 lb father and grandfather of four has done so dressed as a court jester. “I started that just to break up the monotony and have some fun. I started wearing different hats that fit my personality and have been wearing the jester suit for the last year and a half. I want people to feel like I’m approachable.”
Ettinghausen, who ran his first 100 mile race at age 46, has been a competitive runner since high school. “What I love about running is that it’s a sport that anybody can do at any level. It doesn’t cost more than a decent pair of shoes. And you don’t need a team – you can do it by yourself.”
“I beat guys half my age,” Ettinghausen says. “I’m in uncharted territory – I’d love to be able to continue running and race.” Remembering a favorite quote, he says, “Someday I will not be able to do this…but today is not that day.”
"I'm in uncharted territory. Someday I will not be able to do this...but today is not that day."
- Ed Etthinghausen
To stay in peak shape, Ettinghausen works out twice a week at Progressive Health & Performance in Murrieta, where he focuses on strength, core and stability. "My recovery is much better and faster since I started working out at PHP," he says. "Their trainers all have degrees in health science. I fully trust them - they know what they're doing." For more information, visit https://progressivehp.com.