A New Chapter: 100% Local Ownership of 605 Running Company

By: Greg Koch
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After ten incredible years of business partnership, I’m excited (and a bit nervous) to share some major news: I’m now the sole owner of 605 Running Company. It’s a milestone that brings a mix of emotions—excitement for the future, and bittersweet feelings as I say goodbye to the Watley Family as business partners.

For years, the Watleys have been more than just business partners; they’ve been mentors, friends, and an invaluable support system. Very early in my time with 605 Running Company, Logan Watley taught me what a truly healthy running community looks like. He didn’t just talk about it—he lived it. In fact, Logan paced me through my very first marathon, wrecking his foot in the process, just to help me cross the finish line. That experience solidified not only my appreciation for running but also for the type of leadership Logan brought to this company.

Logan and his family didn’t stop at the business side of things—they embraced my family as their own. He opened his home to us, introduced me to his race team, and continuously demonstrated what it means to care deeply about the people and the ecosystem that supports a community. More than anyone, he has shown me how to coach and train others, offering grace, understanding, and the flexibility that allowed me to grow into a leadership role in this community. Everything I’ve ever written about training staff or supporting runners, I’ve learned from Logan's example.

I’ll never forget another once-in-a-lifetime memory—traveling with Grant Watley to participate in the Houston Marathon. In a now-familiar act of generosity, Paul Watley (the guy that hired me in the first place) opened his home to us, shuttled us around Texas, and made sure we met legendary runners like Kara Goucher and Meb Keflezighi. It’s moments like these, filled with kindness and unforgettable experiences, that remind me how lucky I’ve been to work with such an incredible family. Their vision for what 605 Running Company could be, and their love for the sport, is something I’ll always cherish and carry forward.

There’s one more story that holds a special place in my heart. Loy Watley—known to some as Gramps—was one of the first outside of our immediate family to hold my daughter, Violet. She was just six weeks old, and I’ll never forget the smile and warmth he shared with her in that moment. Those first few weeks of parenthood were incredibly bumpy, as any new parent can relate, but seeing Gramps’ trusted hands holding my little girl brought a sense of grace and peace that I desperately needed. His presence allowed me to re-calibrate and focus, helping me see what my role within the company could look like as a newly minted father. That moment will stay with me forever.

Taking on sole ownership of 605 Running Company is a new adventure—one that’s full of possibilities, but not without its challenges. Without the purchasing power and flexibility we once had with multiple partners, things will inevitably shift. However, I firmly believe in the strength of our community and the passion we all share for running.

What this transition means is that 605 Running Company is now 100% locally owned and operated. We are more invested than ever in building a vibrant running ecosystem right here in Sioux Falls. Our vision is clear: to make Sioux Falls a top-tier destination where runners want to live, work, and play. But to realize this, we’ll need the continued support of the community—your support.

As I step fully into my role as the leader of this company, I’m aware of the road ahead. The holiday season and the first quarter of 2025 will be critical times for us. Earlier this year, I shared the hard truth that we were considering the possibility of closing our doors. That wasn’t an idle threat—it was something we seriously had to think about. However, this change in ownership presents a new path forward, and I believe that with your help, we can make it through.

What we offer hasn’t changed. We’re still your go-to spot for running shoes, apparel, coaching, race timing, and event management. But now, more than ever, we depend on local support to sustain our retail operations. By choosing to shop with us, by partnering your organizations with our events, you’re not just supporting a business—you’re investing in the future of the Sioux Falls running community.

I’m excited about what’s ahead, and I hope you are too. 605 Running Company has been an important part of this community for years, and I’m confident that together, we can continue to grow, thrive, and make Sioux Falls a true runner’s paradise.

Thank you for your support, your loyalty, and for being a part of this journey with me. Here’s to many more miles ahead!
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See you out there,
Greg Koch
President, 605 Running Company

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