12 Days of 5Ks Spotlight: Emily Wanless

By: Greg Koch

Early this morning, I had the privilege of running with Dr. Emily Wanless as part of my 12 Days of 5Ks series. Emily is not only a professor at Augustana University but also a cornerstone of the 605 Running Company community. Since day one, Emily and her husband Ryan have supported us in countless ways, sharing their energy, enthusiasm, time, talents, dollars, and wisdom as we’ve built a thriving running ecosystem here in Sioux Falls.

Emily’s running journey is truly inspiring. Whether it’s racing alongside a donkey, traversing the mountains of France, or supporting others at iconic races like the Black Hills 100 or Hitchcock, she brings a spirit of fun and adventure to every experience. From pace teams to finish lines to aid stations, Emily’s presence is felt far and wide in the running world—and always in the most positive way.

Holiday Traditions and Reflections
For Emily, the holiday season is all about family, friends, and cherished traditions. This year, she’s celebrating with her family in Idaho, where her Christmas Eve includes a cooking competition, snowy dog romps, and orange cinnamon rolls on the way to a private mountain ski day.

“It’s all about games, stockings, music, and lots of laughter,” she says.

Connecting with 605 Running Company
When Emily first joined a 605 Saturday morning group run, she didn’t think group running was for her.

“I ran alone in the dark and didn’t consider myself a ‘real’ runner,” she admitted.

But after that first run, everything changed.

“I had a fun conversation with a few people, and when I came back the next week, it was like picking up right where we left off. That connection turned into community, and suddenly I was setting race goals, attending events, and making lifelong friends.”

Her story is a testament to what we’ve always hoped 605 Running Company would be—a place where anyone can find belonging and joy in running.

Favorite Memories and Future Goals
One of Emily’s favorite memories is running the Susan G. Komen breast cancer race with her husband Ryan, who was pushing Sunny—a breast cancer warrior—in an adaptive chair that the two of them worked to bring to 605 Running Company. 

“Hearing Sunny encourage Ryan to push faster and feeling the energy of the crowd made it a truly special day,” she recalls.

I had the privilege of joining them on this race and recall flying down the streets of Downtown at a near 20-minute 5k time to the delight of Sunny!

As for 2025, Emily is aiming for a 100-mile qualifier in her pursuit of a Hardrock 100 entry. She’s also looking forward to the inaugural Tuthell 50K here in Sioux Falls, an event that will grow our ultrarunning community while raising funds for local nonprofits.

Winter Running Inspiration
Running in the colder months doesn’t slow Emily down. Although she and I did agree that we don't mind the treadmill nearly as much these days. She embraces winter with problem-solving—dialing in the right gear, exploring fresh gravel routes, and finding joy in the stillness of snowy days.

Her tip for others?

“Run with friends whenever possible. Wind at your back is always better with company!”

Season’s Greetings to the 605 Community
As I reflect on Emily’s journey, I’m reminded of the incredible people who make our 605 Running Company community so special. During these 12 days, I may not be able to run with everyone, but I couldn’t be prouder of the incredible community we’ve built together. 10-years in business has afforded me an opportunity to meet some incredible people that wouldn't be in my life without running.

Emily’s message captures it perfectly:

“Cheers, y’all. We truly are a lucky, lucky bunch!”

Let’s keep that spirit alive this holiday season.

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