Coach Derrick Ettel

Derrick found his passion for running in his mid-twenties, long after many athletes finish their high school or collegiate careers. What started as a personal challenge quickly became a lasting pursuit, eventually leading him to 605 Running Company and a deep involvement in the running community as both an athlete and coach.

Because Derrick discovered the sport later in life, he understands what it means to start from scratch. He enjoys working with runners at every stage, from first-time runners preparing for their first race to experienced athletes looking to take the next step in performance. His approach focuses on meeting athletes where they are, building consistency, and helping runners develop confidence through smart, sustainable training.

Alongside coaching recreational runners, Derrick also serves as the Head Coach of Zenith Endurance, where he works with post-collegiate athletes pursuing high-level competition. That experience gives him a unique perspective when designing training plans, allowing athletes of all levels to benefit from principles used in elite development while keeping the process accessible and realistic.

Under Derricks guidance, athletes have qualified for the Boston Marathon, won local races, set personal bests across a range of distances, and completed race distances they once thought were out of reach.

His goal is simple: help runners stay healthy, enjoy the process, and discover what theyre truly capable of.

Certifications:
Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), Level II Coach
American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED Certified

Experience:
Head Coach, Zenith Endurance
Coached numerous athletes to first-time Boston Marathon qualifiers
Experience leading middle and high school cross country camps

Athletic Highlights:
1st Overall Brookings Marathon (2022)
2nd Overall Las Vegas Rock n Roll Half Marathon (2023)
18th Overall Twin Cities Marathon (2021)