Karen Michelsen

Completed twenty-five marathons and two ultra marathons in thirteen countries. During the 2003 SARS crisis in Toronto, Karen decided she wanted to run several marathons in different countries if allowed to travel again. At the time, she was working in the Intensive Care Unit at St. Michael's Hospital caring for the most critically ill patients who had SARS. During these subsequent running adventures, Karen has had the opportunity to climb mountains and bridges, participate in triathlons, bike, and kayak races, and experience the unique customs of different cultures. She has written several running articles for the Running Room magazine, done a variety of volunteer work at racing events and been a pacer both in Canada and the USA. The North Pole is a place she has always wanted to visit and Karen is looking forward to this unique experience.