We want to give a warm welcome to the newest member of the 605 Running Company team!

Jess Walhof has been a dedicated member of the Sioux Falls running community for a number of years, especially when it comes to hitting the trails. Jess specializes in trail running and can give you recommendations and advice on which ultras and trail races are sure to give you a challenge.

Many know this but we wanted to dig deeper, so we asked Jess a few questions to help us get to know her. Below you will find her answers.

Where would you recommend to run in Sioux Falls?
Good Earth State Park has over 10 miles worth of trails with scenic river views and rolling hills just graded enough to challenge you or you can opt for some pleasant flat routes. It’s a great place to get out in nature and just be.
 
What is your favorite thing about running?
I love getting out in nature on the trails, and even more so when I can do it with my friends! I also like the opportunity to test myself, whether in speed or distance, and explore my limits.
 
Do you have a favorite hobby outside of running?
Somewhere in the past couple years while in some meditative state while running, I started creating something that resembles poetry. I began scribbling those ideas and thoughts down and sharing them on social media. I found myself with excess extra time the past few months and gathered all of those small works and published a book, “Wandering Wonderings: Poetic Ponderings Transcribed on the Trail.”
 
What is something you are most excited to do this year?
I am hoping to do another round with the Black Hills 100 this summer!
 
What is your favorite post-race food?
If it’s been a hot race (which it usually is), I crave something cold, sweet, and refreshing like a mountain dew and/or popsicle – I have become famous for sharing post-group run popsicles in the parking lot at Good Earth State Park in the summer!
 
What is your favorite running quote?
“When you realize failing doesn’t make you a failure, you give yourself permission to try all sorts of things.”
“The thing about a long, grueling journey is that it strips away who you’re not and allows you to discover what’s left – or who’s left. One damn good reason to pursue endurance – and choose suffering – is to get to know yourself inside and out. When you reach that moment where you gave more than you thought you had and accomplished more than you thought you could, it’s clear who you are.”
-          Jennifer Pharr Davis, “The Pursuit of Endurance”
 
About the Hoka Skyflow:
As an avid trail runner, I’ve struggled for years to find a road shoe to fall in love with, but the HOKA Skyflow might be a perfect match! The structure promises for a smooth ride with just enough cushion to give absorb impact and spring forward. I’m looking forward to logging some longer runs in this shoe when I’m unable to get to the trails!

By: Tait Hermanson, Fit Advisor
Asics continues to surprise me the last few months. From the Glideride Max to the
Novablast 5, Asics has included its new FF Blast Max that is superbly comfortable and more
plush in more and more shoes. The Asics Gel Nimbus 27 is a different story however, it
continues to be a flagship shoe with little changes. Containing the same FF Blast + with the
same rubber, and an improved upper, fans of the Nimbus 26 will be happy to know it hasn’t
changed too much.
I believe this shoe has a perfect spot in Asics lineup in 2025. Max cushioned shoes
continue to get more plush and add even more foam. The Gel Nimbus 27 however is a bit more
stable and on the firmer end. I also feel it is perfect for heel strikers as the Gel makes for a
perfect heel to toe transition. Plus the upper of the Nimbus reminds me of the stealthfit from
Brooks, the tongue is stretchy and provides a snug and comfortable fit.
For those that enjoy a higher cushioned shoe, but not too much plush, the Nimbus 27 is
the perfect shoe! Stop into either of our stores and try on the Nimbus 27 for yourself!

By: Greg Koch
​
As the owner, I’m entering this new year energized and excited for what’s ahead. After a year of transformation and growth, we’ve emerged stronger than ever—and I can’t wait to share what’s in store.

One of the most exciting developments will be the debut of a new brand coming in 2025 that will represent the very best in running and fitness. This collaboration has been years in the making and will complement our commitment to quality and performance, and I know you’re going to love them. For now, it’s a secret—but trust me, this one is HUGE.

We’re also reimagining our coaching services to better support every runner in our community. This decision wasn’t made lightly. In 2024, we experienced a leadership transition in our coaching program that required us to take a step back and evaluate how we could best serve our athletes moving forward. While change can be difficult, it also opens the door to new opportunities.

I have spent the past months listening to feedback from our coaches, auditing our program, and identifying ways to improve. That process has resulted in a renewed focus on inclusivity, growth, and expanded services. You’ll see a program that is focused on "we, not me" going forward. From personalized coaching programs to new classes, clinics, and group workouts, we’re building a coaching ecosystem designed to help runners thrive. This evolution reflects our ongoing commitment to creating meaningful spaces for runners to learn, grow, and connect.

In addition to these exciting changes, we remain deeply committed to hosting races, events, and group runs that bring our community together. We’re doing this with the 605 Run Crew—a nexus of all our business ventures. Whether you’re training for your next race, setting a personal goal, or just looking for a welcoming group to run with, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Thank you for being part of the 605 Running Company family. Your support fuels our passion, and I’m thrilled to keep growing, innovating, and building something truly special in 2025. Let’s make this year one to remember!