Erica McKenzie donned her OSU triathlon uniform to join nearly 1,000 other athletes racing the Persona Half Ironman in Oliver, Canada, on Sunday, June 6. McKenzie was vying for one of the 35 qualifying slots available for Ironman Canada, which will be held on August 29. After surviving the 1.2-mile swim, McKenzie completed the 57-mile bike course at over 21 mph and subsequently posted the 10th fastest half-marathon time of the nearly 450 strong female field to successfully qualify for an Ironman Canada slot. In addition to Ironman Canada, McKenzie will also participate in Ironman Coeur D’Alene in Idaho on June 27; on both occasions she will be vying for one of the elusive qualifying slots for the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. David Dickson, McKenzie’s partner and an OSU PhD student in engineering, raced with her and was also in OSU uniform.
Dr. McKenzie has been doing triathlons for 10 years and has served as faculty advisor for the OSU Triathlon Club since 2006. She enjoys assisting and advising OSU students, staff and faculty interested in the sport. She makes the most of her limited training time through the services of a dedicated coach. More information about the OSU Triathlon Club and McKenzie’s role in the club can be found here. The Triathlon Club currently has close to 100 members, including some veterinary students and the Department of Animal Sciences Dr. Giovanna Rosenlicht, the wife of Dr. Kevin Marley, CVM research assistant.
Dr. Erica McKenzie represents OSU in the Oliver Half Ironman in Canada
