<![CDATA[605 Running Co. - Blog 605]]>Mon, 04 May 2026 09:41:22 -0500Weebly<![CDATA[Resolved: Let’s Race a 5K — Supporting Student Voice at Washington High School]]>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:28:21 GMThttps://www.run605.com/blog-605/resolved-lets-race-a-5k-supporting-student-voice-at-washington-high-schoolBy: Greg Koch
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There are some events that just hit a little closer to home.

When Heather Reed—teacher at Washington High School and member of the 605 Run Collective—shared her vision for a new 5K supporting the WHS Speech & Debate program, it didn’t take much convincing. As a Washington alum and former debate letter winner myself, this one feels personal.

This event isn’t just about logging miles. It’s about backing something that matters.

Introducing: Resolved: Let’s Race a 5K
Hosted by the Washington Debate Team in partnership with 605 Running Company, this first annual event brings the community together in support of student voice, education, and leadership development.

Whether you’re a runner, walker, or prefer to participate virtually, this is designed to be accessible to everyone. No intimidation. No barriers. Just a shared purpose and a starting line.

Why Speech & Debate Matters
Speech and debate programs do more than prepare students for competition—they prepare them for life.

Students learn how to:
  • Think critically
  • Communicate clearly
  • Engage with complex issues
  • Understand perspectives beyond their own

In a world that often rewards the loudest voice, these students are learning how to build the most thoughtful one.

They’re developing the confidence to speak up, the discipline to listen, and the skills to lead.

More Than a Race
This event connects more than just runners. It brings together:
  • The Sioux Falls community
  • The broader speech and debate network
  • Local runners and supporters
  • Washington High School’s Warrior Nation

All united around one simple belief: student voices matter.

Every registration helps ensure that students continue to have access to programs that foster civic engagement, respectful dialogue, and meaningful growth.

Let’s Show Up
If you’re looking for a race with purpose, this is it.

Whether you’re chasing a PR, walking with friends, or supporting from afar, your participation directly impacts the next generation of leaders coming out of Washington High School.

That’s worth showing up for.

Register here:
https://runsignup.com/Race/SD/SiouxFalls/ResolvedLetSRunA5k

Let’s support youth voice, education, and leadership—one step at a time.
]]><![CDATA[Spring Is Here—and So Is the Sioux Falls Running Season]]>Sun, 22 Mar 2026 16:55:57 GMThttps://www.run605.com/blog-605/spring-is-here-and-so-is-the-sioux-falls-running-seasonPicture
There’s something about spring in Sioux Falls that feels like a reset.

The snow melts, the days get longer, race calendars start filling up, and suddenly the whole community comes back to life. Group runs get bigger. New runners show up. Familiar faces return. Momentum builds.

That’s what we love most about this time of year.

At 605 Running Company, we’re proud to be part of that momentum. Our involvement looks a little different from event to event. In some cases we help fundraise. In others we provide timing support, help produce the event, or collaborate behind the scenes. No matter the role, we are always open to partnership when it helps strengthen the local running community.

This spring is full of opportunities to plug in, get involved, and race local.

Why Racing Local Matters
There are a lot of opportunities to race, and that is a good thing. But local races do more than give us a start line.

They support local nonprofits. They create opportunities for local businesses. They build energy that stays in Sioux Falls. When you sign up for a local event, you are doing more than registering for a race. You are helping strengthen a network of runners, organizers, volunteers, businesses, and causes that make this community better.

That is the running ecosystem.

And it matters.

To date, 605 Running Company has supported 11 different local initiatives through gifts, gift certificates and cards, cash donations, and prizes totaling more than $15,000 in the first quarter of the year alone. That kind of impact only happens when people choose to show up for one another and invest in what is being built here at home.

More Than Just Race Day
Races are just one part of what makes spring so exciting.

We also have a full schedule of weekly group runs, in-store clinics with local professionals, training programs, our spring track program, individual coaching, digital education opportunities, and collaborative experiences designed to help more people connect with movement and community.

You do not have to be chasing a personal record to be part of this. You just have to show up.

Race Local This Spring
We’re excited about the races, programs, and partnerships ahead, and we’d love to see strong local participation across the board. Whether you’re signing up for your first event, supporting a cause you care about, or just looking for a reason to stay active this season, there are so many good ways to get involved.

Check out some of the local events coming up this spring:
And if you want to keep up with the best in local races, events, and community opportunities, our News & Events section at 605 Running Company is always one of the best places to start.
]]><![CDATA[NEWS RELEASE FROM: THE SIOUX FALLS ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE EXTRAVAGANZA COMMITTEE]]>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:56:41 GMThttps://www.run605.com/blog-605/news-release-from-the-sioux-falls-st-patricks-day-parade-extravaganza-committee​CONTACT:
Cory Myers
sigepcory@gmail.com
605-261-7896

Retired Firefighter and Parade Stalwart Kelly Grogan is Third in Family to be Named Grand Marshal of Sioux Falls St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The Grogan surname is well-known both in the Sioux Falls’ Irish community and the city at large. A St. Patrick’s Day Parade fixture going all the way back to the beginning of the event, the Grogan family has a long history of leadership at the event. So it’s no surprise that Kelly Grogan has been named as this year’s Grand Marshal of the Sioux Falls St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Kelly, a long-time firefighter with the Sioux Falls Fire and Rescue before retiring in 2014, is the third Grogan to receive the honor of being grand marshal, following his mother Cleopha Grogan in 2001, and older brother Hugh Grogan in 2019. Growing up, Kelly says his mother instilled the importance of the parade into the entire family.

“Mom was the one that kept us on the straight and narrow and made sure we knew it was our responsibility to be part of the parade,” Kelly said.  “It was important to follow our ancestry and family history, and to keep that Irish pride.”

The 46th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Saturday, March 14, in downtown Sioux Falls. In the spirit of founder Sylvia Henkin, it is often called “The People’s Parade,” meaning it is free and open to the public. Anyone can enter a float or walk in the parade as long as they are registered or part of a registered group and are wearing an official St. Patrick’s Day Parade button.

This year, the parade also has a presenting “Emerald City” sponsor, Central Bank. Thanks to their generosity, the falls at Falls Park will be lit green from March 13th through the 17th to celebrate the holiday.

"Community and family connection are at the core of the St. Patrick's Day Parade, and that spirit aligns naturally with Central Bank's commitment to the markets we serve," said Nick Brown, Regional President and incoming Chief Executive Officer of Central Bank. "We're proud to partner in elevating this experience for Sioux Falls families while also contributing to the meaningful nonprofit work the parade supports. It's an opportunity to celebrate together and give back at the same time."

Parade participation buttons cost $3 and are available in advance at The Blarney Stone Pub, 605 Running Company, and The Cookie Jar. Buttons may also be purchased on March 14 before the parade starts.

Ryan Murphy, chair of the St. Patrick’s Day Extravaganza Committee, praised Kelly and the Grogan family’s dedication to the parade.

The Grogan family is such a stalwart of our parade, and such an important family in our town when it comes to Irish history,” Murphy said. “And when you look at Kelly specifically, all the different ways he’s helped the Sioux Falls community through his career and giving back, he’s a wonderful selection for grand marshal.”

Kelly was nominated for grand marshal by family members and friends, and the parade committee reviews nominees, and selected Grogan.

Born and raised here in Sioux Falls’ North End, Kelly is part of a large Irish family of 11 children born to Walter Brendan Grogan and Cleopha Isabella (Malloy) Grogan. The middle kid of the bunch, Kelly remembers fondly growing up with his brothers and sisters, as well as all the other families in the neighborhood.

“There were advantages to being the middle child,” Kelly says. “Whenever the older kids got to do something, I was one of the older kids. And when the younger kids got to do something, well I was a younger kid. I tried to use that to get out of chores, too.”

Kelly and his wife Tania de Oliveira Grogan are part-owners of the family-owned restaurant Roots of Brazil, and have three children; Kaila Gillespie, Jamie Grogan, and Melissa Grogan-Honkomp. Add in the grandchildren (Simone, Shayla, Lucas, Sophia, Izzie, Aubrey, and Irelynn), siblings, nieces, nephews, and in some cases great-grandchildren, and the immediate Grogan family clan has grown to more than 125. And they still make it an effort to gather every year, enter a float, and walk in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

“It used to be the oldest leading the way, but now we’re getting up in years, and it’s the youngest of our family that are taking the lead,” Kelly said.

In an additional nod to that family connection, Kelly has invited his brothers to join him in many of his grand marshal duties this year, including the painting of the shamrock and walking alongside him at the head of the parade. There is one thing they aren’t invited to, though.

“Only one of us can speak at the ceremony,” Kelly laughed. “They’d all want a piece of that!”

And the family just might have a special float planned to commemorate Kelly’s grand marshal honor.

“This year we’re going to go big,” Gillespie said. “The theme will honor our family’s Irish heritage and pay respects to firemen.”

The parade, which brings together the regional community in celebration, typically features around 100 entries. Placement in the parade is on a first-come, first-served basis and at the discretion of parade officials. Each entry must incorporate an Irish theme. The website also includes detailed participation rules.

Parade Buttons & Community Partnership
This year, St. Francis House, a nonprofit serving the homeless, will receive a portion of button sales. Each year, the committee partners with a nonprofit to support their mission. A fun fact: St. Francis House was founded March 17, 1987, and was christened by then-Father James Doyle, who later became Monsignor James Doyle and served as the parade’s Grand Marshal in 1999.

Parade Day Events & Route Information
  • The traditional painting of the shamrock takes place at 11 a.m. March 14 in front of The First National Bank at 9th St. and S. Phillips Ave. This event is open to the public. Phillips Avenue will be closed between 9th and 10th Streets at 10:45 a.m.
  • The parade starts at 2 p.m. at S. Phillips Ave. and 13th St., ending near W. 2nd St. Streets adjacent to the route close at 1:30 p.m., and parking on Phillips Avenue is restricted starting late Saturday morning. Parade staging begins at 12:30 p.m. on 1st Avenue,  between W. 11th and 14th Streets.

Sponsors & Special Events
Including our Emerald City Presenting Sponsor, Central Bank, the parade is made possible through generous contributions from sponsors: Avera Health, Burwell Enterprises, Central Bank, Fiegan Construction, First Premier Bank, Jack Rose Social Club, Security National Bank, Xcel Energy, Lloyd Companies,  Maguire, Dakota Beverage, Hagen, Wilka & Archer Law, The First National Bank in Sioux Falls, First Interstate Bank, Minervas, State Farm - Tate Teveldal, and Sir Lines-A-Lot.

Additional parade day festivities include:
  • The "Paint Sioux Falls Green!" initiative will light up the Big Sioux River, Arc of Dreams, and St. Joseph’s Cathedral, among others, in green on Parade Day & St. Patrick’s Day.
  • Lucky 7’s Run Series: The 1-mile, 5-mile, and 5K runs kick off on parade day, with the 1-mile race beginning at 1:55 p.m. on S. Phillips Ave. at 12th Street. Race details and registration are available at https://runsignup.com/Race/SD/SiouxFalls/Lucky7sShuffle.
  • The “Vanguard Squadron,” an ethanol-powered stunt plane team, will perform a flyby at the start of the parade (weather permitting).
For more information on the parade and festivities, and to register ~ St. Patrick's Day Parade - Downtown Sioux Falls

​PHOTOS INCLUDED:
Kelly Grogan head shot
Four Grogan brothers, from left, Wally, Hugh, Brian, Kelly.
Grogan family with one of their parade floats
Grogan11. From left: Hugh, Sheila, Shannon, Molly, Patty, Kelly, Brian, Erin, Laurie, Wally, and Colleen
Kelly Grogan immediate family in front of Roots of Brazil
]]><![CDATA[Why Group Runs Matter More Than We Sometimes Realize]]>Tue, 23 Dec 2025 14:42:36 GMThttps://www.run605.com/blog-605/why-group-runs-matter-more-than-we-sometimes-realize
By: Greg Koch

I love a group run. I’ve been leading them for more than 11 years here in Sioux Falls, and some of my closest friendships and favorite memories trace back to those shared miles. Countless runs to Falls Park and back from our shop have shaped not just my personal journey, but the principles that guide our business today. That isn’t lip service — it’s reality. Running, and especially running together, has deepened my understanding of what truly makes our store special.

Over the years, I've also enjoyed watching runners gather all across Sioux Falls. Small packs meeting at trailheads, sidewalks, coffee shops, and parking lots. That’s a beautiful thing — people finding movement, rhythm, and connection on their own terms.
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At the same time, something broader has been happening. We’re increasingly operating in silos. It’s harder than it used to be to bring groups together in shared spaces, even when connection is something we all want more of.

With Christmas here, I’ve been thinking a lot about the moments that make the season so special to me:
  • The joy of school recitals filled with family and friends.
  • Warm meals shared around a table.
  • Cruising around town and viewing light decorations across the city.
  • Thoughtful gifts exchanged with people we love.
  • Card games with aunts and uncles, sleeping Papa's in Lay-Z-Boy chairs with football on TV, all happening with a warm fire in the fireplace, and fresh baked goodness flowing from the kitchen.    

These moments remind us that being together matters — that shared experiences shape us in ways nothing else can.

When a group run goes right, it captures that same spirit — and it does it year-round.

A great group run isn’t about pace or distance. It isn’t about having the “perfect” workout. It’s about showing up. It’s about choosing to be part of something shared, even when it feels easier to stay comfortable and do your own thing.

Most people who hesitate to join a group run are worried about the same things:
  • Am I too slow?
  • Am I too fast?
  • Will I fit in?

​What’s rarely realized is how many others are feeling the exact same way.

Running is simply the vessel.

It’s the thing that brings us together, lowers barriers, and reminds us of the best parts of the human experience. When people with different backgrounds, abilities, goals, and stories move side by side — even for 30 minutes — something shifts.
  • Conversations happen.
  • Confidence grows.
  • Community takes shape.

That’s the magic.

And it doesn’t happen without people choosing to show up.

Every time someone joins a group run, they help make the space more welcoming for the next person who’s nervous, unsure, or standing on the fence. They help turn an individual activity into a shared experience. They help bring our four pillars — movement, coaching, events, and community — to life in a very real way.

Group runs aren’t about having your best run of the week.

They’re about being part of something bigger than yourself.

Runners never regret going on a run once it’s over. And more often than not, the runs we remember most aren’t the fast ones — they’re the ones we shared.

At 605 Running Company, we believe running is at its best when it brings people together. We’re grateful for every person who chooses to show up, run alongside others, and help build the kind of community that reminds us why we started doing this in the first place.
]]><![CDATA[605 Running Company Heads to The Running Event 2025]]>Wed, 26 Nov 2025 16:16:25 GMThttps://www.run605.com/blog-605/605-running-company-heads-to-the-running-event-2025Picture
By: Greg Koch

Next week, Derrick Ettel (VP of Operations) and I will be traveling to San Antonio, Texas to attend The Running Event (TRE)—one of the largest and most influential gatherings in the run specialty industry. TRE brings together running stores, brand partners, innovators, and educators from across the country for several days of learning, networking, and industry-shaping conversation.

Learn more about the event here: https://www.therunningevent.com/

This trip is a critical opportunity for us to explore new ideas, strengthen our partnerships, and bring back valuable knowledge that will benefit our customers and our team. For the third year in a row, 605 Running Company will also be honored as one of the Best Running Stores in the country—a recognition we do not take lightly, and one that is only possible because of the amazing community that supports us.

On a personal note, I’m especially excited that Derrick will be joining me this year. For the past two years I’ve attended TRE solo, and being able to share this experience with someone who is such a key leader in our company means a great deal to me. This trip reflects the incredible trust and value he brings to our organization.

Store Operations During TRE WeekBecause both Derrick and I will be away, our operations will look a little different the week of December 1–5, 2025.

📍 Downtown Store (11am–4pm)
  • Open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
  • Staffed by Ben Devlin, who is adjusting his full-time schedule at the Old Courthouse Museum to keep things running for us.
    This is a huge help, and we’re incredibly grateful for his commitment to 605 Running Company.

📍 The Bridges Location
  • Closed December 1–5, 2025

📦 Online Store & Order Fulfillment
  • Ben will also be fulfilling online orders daily:
    shop.run605.com

As a small team, balancing this important industry opportunity while continuing to serve our community is always a challenge. Daily retail sales keep our business moving, and we are fortunate to have a loyal teammate like Ben who is willing to step up to make this possible.

TRE Week Local Business Challenge + Daily GiveawayWhile we’re away, we’re shining a spotlight on some of our favorite local small businesses—and giving you the chance to win!

Each day, we’ll raffle off a $25 digital 605 Running Company gift certificate. To enter:
  1. Visit the featured business of the day
  2. Make a purchase
  3. Take a photo and tag:
    • @run605
    • The partner business
    • Use the hashtag #run605

Daily Partner Lineup
​
Monday: Breadsmith
https://www.breadsmith.com/sioux-falls/

Tuesday: The Spice & Tea Exchange
https://www.spiceandtea.com/a/store-locator/Sioux-Falls.html

Wednesday: The Breaks Coffee Roasting Co.
https://www.thebreakscoffeeroasting.com/

Thursday: Fernson Downtown
https://www.fernson.com/downtown

Friday: The Cookie Jar Eatery
https://www.cookiejarsd.com/

Let’s take this opportunity to support local shops, enjoy some great products, and maybe win a little 605 store credit while you’re at it!

Online Savings Coming SoonWe’ll also be launching special online promotions during TRE week—these will be announced right after the holiday weekend.
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