Augustana University Athletics

Augustana has had a strong tradition of outstanding cross country runners. Hiedi Reed Johnson was one of the best. After a great career at Canton, SD High School, Hiedi joined the Vikings and began setting records. During her career she held five school records, was a three-time All-American in cross country and earned similar distinction for her track exploits in 1993. She won North Central Conference championships in 1993 and 1996. She was chosen NCAA North Region cross country runner of the year in 1996. She was the first Augustana woman to win NCC and North Region titles. In 1993 and again in 1996 she finished sixth at the NCAA Division II national cross country championships. She was the first NCC entrant to cross the finish line in both years. Hiedi was a double winner at the NCC outdoor track championships in 1997 capturing the 5,000 and 10,000.

An outstanding student as well, Hiedi was named Academic All-NCC in 1997. She capped her career by winning the Ruth Marske Award for significant contributions to team and community while showing courage in overcoming adversity. Her coach, Rob Kinnunen, was memorable. She said,"Coach Kinnunen taught me everything I knew at the time about running. He kept me motivated and encouraged me to keep going when I was injured." In addition to coaching, Rob was also a great travel agent. Hiedi says,"My sophomore year of cross country both the male and female teams made the nationals. We had a great time competing in California. Then on the way home, we were stranded in the Denver airport for at least 24 hours. Coach Kinnunen worked very hard to get us all home for Thanksgiving vacation."

As far as running goes,Hiedi said,"The OutdoorTrack Nationals my senior year were rewarding. I ran two of the best races of my career. On the first night of competition, I placed 5th in the 3k, running a personal best. Then, I came back the second night and placed 2nd in the 10k. I ran the race very conservatively and in the final lap I was able to pass a few runners and move into second place. My final lap was one of my fastest. I remember thinking that someone was going to catch me, so I ran my heart out."