Kari-Jean McKenzie

Hometown : Richmond, B.C.
Birthdate : 10/11/1982
Height : 5’10”
Weight : 145lbs

Kari-Jean McKenzie started kayaking at age 15 through her high school’s dragon boat program. Her father, Don McKenzie, coached her during her early years and remains the team doctor for the Canadian Canoe/Kayak Team. Kari quickly acquired a love for the water and has since gone on to win a silver medal at the 2003 Pan American Games and compete in three World Championships.

During college, McKenzie ran varsity track, placing 4th at the NAIA championships in 2005 and earning the title of Academic All-Canadian and American Scholar athlete. She also rowed crew, winning the Head of the Gorge and Berkeley-Stanford-UBC dual regatta in 2006.

As the valedictorian of her high school, Kari-Jean learned to balance the demands of elite athletics and academics at an early age. During the past six years, she has managed to compete internationally while earning a Masters degree in Epidemiology from Stanford University and an undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of British Columbia. Kari-Jean is starting medical school next year in pursuit of her goal of becoming a pediatrician.

During her spare time, Kari volunteers with the Boys and Girls Club of America as an academic tutor, enjoys hiking, camping and playing the piano.