Forerunner #25:
Carolyn Senty
At the urging of friends, Carolyn skied her first Birkebeiner on her Bonna wood skis in 1978, wearing home-sewn knickers, wool socks, and a wool ski sweater. She was hooked, and has made the trip north from Madison every February since then. Better equipment (Epoke fiberglass striders, lighter Rossignol classic skis, and eventually a series of skate skis), some ski lessons, improved fitness, and a growing circle of like-minded friends kept her going. She completed her 35th Birkie in 2015, earning some age group awards over the years. She’s backed off to the Korte the past three years to let her friends catch up! (Well, aging knees and feet might have something to do with it, too!)
The Hayward / Cable area continued to be a popular destination for skiing, as well as mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking. After retiring in 2004 from her 33 year health care career at UW Hospital, she was able to spend more time at her second home in Seeley. And in July 2018, after almost 50 years in Madison, she sold her home there and has become a full time northwoods resident.
She believes in the spirit of the Birkie for a healthy lifestyle. Ski Run Bike Live! And is happy to be able to support the endowment for this world class event.