NEED TO KNOW
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Les Jones is a medical malpractice lawyer in Memphis, Tenn.
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The 66-year-old has been running since high school as a means to reduce stress
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A few years ago, Jones discovered he had been living with an undetected heart condition that could potentially end his beloved hobby
For more than two decades, a 66-year-old ultra-runner has pushed his limits by completing multiple 100-mile races each year.
Despite facing serious health challenges, Les Jones continues to chase the trails as a powerful reminder that passion and determination can carry us far.
Jones – a medical malpractice lawyer in Memphis, Tenn. – started running track and cross-country at the early age of 15 and now runs six to seven days a week.
Les Jones
Les Jones uses running as a stress reliever.
What began as a way to relieve stress as a teen became a lifelong passion for long-distance running. The practicing attorney admits that many of his best ideas — whether for trials, opening statements, or closing arguments — have come to him while running.
However, a few years ago, during a routine physical, Jones’ primary care doctor found something unusual in his chest X-ray. An electrocardiogram (EKG) and CT scan of his heart revealed that the lifelong runner had an enlarged aorta and an undetected aortic aneurysm.
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Les Jones
Les Jones enjoys running with friends.
“Once we figured out that I had an aortic aneurysm, my wife said: ‘Look, you’re not running any more 100-mile races until somebody tells you it’s okay,’” Jones tells PEOPLE exclusively.
Wondering how the diagnosis would impact his passion, Jones decided to seek special care at the Cleveland Clinic, where he met Dr. Tamanna K. Singh, M.D., F.A.C.C. “She was just phenomenal and in my eyes we hit it off,” he says.
According to Dr. Singh, “Aortic aneurysms can be hereditary or acquired over time from other issues that contribute to weakening or progressive dilatation of the aorta.” Certain variables can contribute to this, including high blood pressure, aging, and sometimes sports that require heavy lifting.
Given that Jones is a runner, Dr. Singh wasn’t as worried about the possibility of an aortic enlargement, like she might be for a powerlifter, for instance. “Individuals who are predominantly doing endurance training and racing typically do not see these incredibly high transient blood pressures and thus the stress on the aorta is less,” she tells PEOPLE.
Les Jones
Les Jones running in the mountains.
Despite his diagnosis, Jones’ commitment to high-volume endurance training and dedication to surveillance imaging has helped keep his condition in check.
“His aorta has not grown in size over the last three years, which is great news,” Dr. Singh explains. “[Jones] is also incredibly committed to staying healthy and active, controlling his diet, blood pressure – it’s his intentions and commitment to health as he challenges himself with movement that makes him unique.”
With Dr. Singh’s guidance and approval, Jones has been able to continue running despite his condition. In May 2025, Jones attempted the daunting Cocodona 250, a 250-mile ultramarathon in Arizona, with his doctor’s approval, of course.
However, he had to stop after around 40 miles due to back and calf issues. Luckily, his aortic aneurysm has yet to hinder him from completing a race. “I will run as long as my body will let me,” Jones shares. “Movement is medicine.”
His dedication has inspired his family, most notably during a 100-mile Rabbit Run in September 2024, where he crossed the finish line with his 18-year-old son, Townes.
Les Jones
Les Jones and his son after a race.
At his age, Jones thoroughly believes exercise is essential to living a full, healthy life — not just physically, but mentally. When setbacks come, he looks for ways to adapt rather than just giving up.
Staying active, he says, is key to happiness and resilience. He also stresses the importance of having a doctor who supports that mindset, especially when medical issues require ongoing monitoring.
Years ago, a physician told him to scale back, but he’s since logged many more miles — and hasn’t looked back.
Read the original article on People
