Loren Kambestad grew up in Bristol, SD. When he graduated from high school in 1970, he would be the South Dakota state record holder in the mile (4:13.7), 2 mile (9:11.5), and 3 mile (14:13.6). His time in the 3 mile run that year was ranked 3rd in the nation for high school athletes.

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 After graduating from Norther State University in Aberdeen, Loren pursued his passion for teaching and coaching. He moved to Rapid City with his wife Bobbie and children Lora and Marshall in 1987. Loren taught at Valley View, Canyon Lake, Garfield, South Canyon, and Meadowbrook where he was affectionately known as "Mr. K".

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Loren started the Rapid City Elementary School Cross Country series along with many morning running clubs throughout Rapid City. After his passing in 2018, a group of teachers and coaches decided to carry on his legacy and what he started for youth running in Rapid City. We are continuing the race series that Loren started in 1994 through the Loren Kambestad Memorial Youth Cross Country Series! 

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