Kristy Forsberg
For Kristy Forsberg Aune, being told she “runs like a girl” has always come as a compliment. A graduate of Lincoln High School’s Class of 1982, Aune made a name for herself as an athlete, setting two school records and serving as captain of both the cross country and track teams. Her other interests included high school musicals and church youth activities.
Aune continued to excel as a runner at the University of North Dakota when she joined the cross-country and track teams. It wasn’t long before she was recognized as a talented athlete, breaking many school and conference records. A four-year letter winner, Aune’s running career was highly decorated. She received many awards, including “Hardest Worker,” “Most Valuable,” and “Most Dedicated.” In both 1985 and 1986, Aune qualified for the NCAA National Cross Country Championships. Then, in 1987, she qualified for the National Track and Field Championships. These accomplishments are even more impressive when taking into account that the majority of Aune’s training was done without the benefit of a competitive team surrounding her. As a senior, she was voted UND’s Female Student Athlete of the Year.
After college, Aune continued her running while she was a Special Education teacher in the Twin Cities. She resigned from her teaching position in 1992 in order to devote herself to being a wife and mother. Aune also uses her teaching talents by working with preschoolers and leading Junior High Youth Group at her church.
Kristy Forsberg Aune is praised for her personality, character, morals, academic ability, and, of course, athletic talent. One coach said of her, “Every coach clearly remembers a select few because they deserve to be remembered.” For all of her coaches, Aune belongs in that group.