Ultramarathon-running vet awarded MBE
Jasmin Paris, a veterinary surgeon and ultramarathon runner, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for services to fell and long-distance running.
Earlier this year, Dr Paris hit the headlines when she became the first woman ever to complete the Barkley Marathons in Tennessee.
She finished the 100-mile race, which has a 60-hour time limit, with just 99 seconds to spare. Only 20 people have finished the race within the time limit since the annual event was launched in 1986.
In her career as an endurance runner, the 40-year-old veterinary has also achieved numerous other feats, including setting records in the 66-mile Bob Graham Round, the 58-mile Ramsay Round, and the 268-mile Spine Race along the Pennine Way.
When she’s not running, Dr Paris works as a small animal veterinary surgeon and senior lecturer at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh.
Lisa Boden, dean of veterinary medicine and head of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said: “Jasmin’s courage and determination are an inspiration to all. We are incredibly fortunate to have her as a colleague.”
The King’s Birthday Honours also saw David McKeown awarded an OBE for services to the veterinary profession.
The veterinary surgeon, based in Northern Ireland, has worked in the veterinary sector for more than 50 years. In 2022, he received a Chiron Award from the British Veterinary Association for his work supporting veterinary professionals with their wellbeing and mental health.
Image © University of Edinburgh