Ted Corbitt, who was called the father of American ultradistance running, passed away on December 12, aged 88. Over the years Ted's pioneering work in participating in and helping to organise races was a crucial factor in the current popularity of ultra distance running.

Ted ran over 200 marathons and ultramarathons, holding many ultra records during the 60's and seventies. Even in his eighties he was still competing - he completed 300 miles at the Sri Chinmoy Self-Transcendence 6-day race aged 80, and at the age of 84 completed 69 miles in a 24-hour race. Ted was one of the founders of the New York Road Runner's Club and it's first President, and one of the main organizers of the first NYC Marathon in all five boroughs. He was inducted into the Ultrarunning Hall of Fame a few years ago.

Ted was always available to share his advice with others and preferred to do his work and let others take the limelight. Many in the ultrarunning community are today recalling fond memories of the time they had with him.

"Running is something you just do. You don’t need a goal. You don’t need a race. You don’t need the hype of a so-called fitness craze. All you need is a cheap pair of shoes and some time. The rest will follow.”

- Ted Corbitt

• Read New York Times article on Ted Corbitt's passing...
• Arpan DeAgelo from the Sri Chinmoy Marathon Team posts a tribute to Ted Corbitt on multidays.com...