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CONTACT: Cory Myers [email protected] 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
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:
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
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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. 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:
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:
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.
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.  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)
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:
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.  By: Greg Koch
Running a small business will show you things you never expect — water main breaks, global pandemics, and even the night I was woken up at 2 a.m. because a drunk driver crashed through the front of our building. I’ve weathered a lot with 605 Running Company. But moving from a strong ownership group to becoming the sole entrepreneur behind this store brought a level of responsibility unlike anything I’d experienced before. It pushed me to grow in ways only full ownership can. Honesty can be uncomfortable. Not everyone wants to hear it, and some don’t believe it when they do. But transparency matters — especially during a time of year when small businesses rely heavily on community support. The Work You Don’t See Small-business ownership involves countless decisions most people never see. Behind every product on our shelves is a calculation about cash flow, vendor terms, and inventory risk. When we run out of a nutrition flavor, a sock style, or a shoe colorway, it’s almost never a lack of effort — and never a lack of care. Often, it’s simply cash flow. Small businesses don’t have the automatic replenishment systems big-box stores do. There are incredible niche brands in the running world — emerging shoe brands, nutrition companies, headlights, hydration gear, unique apparel. I’d love to carry them all. But responsible buying means focusing on turn rates, margins, product demand, and the realities of cost. We choose carefully so we can offer what runners truly need while keeping the business healthy. These decisions aren’t personal. They’re thoughtful and data-driven. The Good That Happens Here Even with the challenges, there is so much good happening at 605 Running Company. In the past year, we’ve contributed over $30,000 in donations and over 200 volunteer hours to organizations across the region. These acts of service weren’t made during easy times — they were made because giving back is who we are. From small-town races to youth programs to community events across the 605, we’ve continued to show up. Why Small Business Saturday Matters As we approach Small Business Saturday, I want to share one simple truth: Small businesses don’t survive on one big weekend -- they survive because people choose local consistently. Every visit matters. Every purchase matters. Every conversation matters. Your support keeps this store alive, creates jobs, and fuels a running community I’m incredibly proud of. Thank you for supporting local. Thank you for supporting this store. And thank you for choosing 605 Running Company as part of your running journey. Small Business Saturday is a reminder that your choices shape your community — and I’m grateful for every single one of them. If you’d like to read my longer personal reflection on leadership and small-business ownership, you can find the full article on my LinkedIn. Click here more >>>>  By: Greg Koch
This weekend, thousands of runners will lace up for one of the most iconic events in the world — the TCS New York City Marathon. The course winds through all five boroughs, showcasing not only the city’s energy and resilience but also the unique power of the running community. As someone who recently visited New York City for the first time with my family, I’ve been reflecting on just how special that community really is. A Family Adventure in the Big Apple My wife, Chelsea, and I had never been to New York before, and seeing the city through our six-year-old daughter’s eyes made the trip even more memorable. She’s been fascinated with the Statue of Liberty ever since learning about it at school, and every morning we play on the large map painted on her school’s playground, talking about the places we want to visit someday. New York has always been at the top of her list. We took full advantage of our CityPASS and explored as much as we could — from the Museum of Natural History and The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum to the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock. And as a huge Ninja Turtles fan, my daughter was absolutely thrilled to “spot” those radical dudes all over the city. It was the kind of family trip we’ll be talking about for years. The Spirit of Running in NYC Even though we weren’t there for a race, I couldn’t help but be drawn to Central Park and the countless runners who filled it — morning, noon, and night. What stood out to me most wasn’t just the volume of runners, but their resilience. During our visit, a classic Nor’easter rolled through — wind, rain, and cool temperatures. Yet there they were: runners of all kinds, embracing the challenge, running anyway. There’s something about New York that amplifies the running spirit. The city never stops moving, and neither do its runners. That energy is contagious. Bringing That Energy Home Back here in Sioux Falls, we’re lucky to have our own incredible running playgrounds — from the River Greenway Recreation Trail that loops through the city to Good Earth State Park, Great Bear Ski Valley, and Tuthill Park. No matter the season, our community shows up. As we head into the colder months, I want to encourage everyone to take a page from New York’s playbook: keep showing up. The weather might turn rough, but with the right layers, a good attitude, and maybe a few friends by your side, running outside year-round here is absolutely possible. At 605 Running Company, we’re committed to supporting runners of all levels — especially through our group runs, which are open to everyone. Meeting up with others can make all the difference in staying consistent and keeping the joy alive, especially when motivation dips. As I get older, I’ve learned that anything that makes running easier — and more fun — is worth embracing. Inspiration from an Iconic Running City So this weekend, as the New York City Marathon unfolds, take some time to watch, cheer, and be inspired. Think about what a “running ecosystem” means to you — how runners, businesses, volunteers, and supporters create something bigger than any single run. I’m proud of the work we do here in Sioux Falls to grow and support that same spirit. Visiting one of the world’s great running cities gave me fresh appreciation for what’s possible when a community runs together — in any weather, at any pace, with open hearts. |
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