The 2025 Carmel Marathon is set to take place today, April 19, 2025, starting at 8:00 AM and concluding around 3:00 PM. This annual event, which has become a staple in the community, will see road closures beginning before the race to ensure the safety of participants, spectators, and volunteers alike. The Carmel Police Department has issued guidance on alternative routes to help minimize congestion and delays during the marathon.
Among the many participants this year is Serena Van Orman, a passionate advocate for sexual assault survivors. For Van Orman, running has transformed into a powerful journey of healing and activism. She has been training rigorously for the marathon, which holds special significance for her as April is recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
"It just started to become something really positive in my life to have something to train for, and to keep pushing myself to do," Van Orman shared. As she prepares to hit the pavement, she carries not only her determination but also a poignant reminder of her cause—a 15-pound mattress pack strapped to her back. This unique addition is a nod to an activist piece created by a college student in 2014, which Van Orman has adopted to amplify her message.
"I can run with a mattress in support of sexual assault survivors," Van Orman explained. The mattress pack is adorned with stickers proclaiming, "I believe survivors," and features anonymous messages of encouragement from other survivors. One powerful message reads, "You got this! You are so much stronger than you know." This personal touch serves to remind Van Orman and her supporters that every story, every voice, and every act of support for survivors matters.
Van Orman has participated in the Carmel Marathon before, wearing the same mattress pack last year. Her involvement with Firefly Children & Family Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals overcome hardships and unhealthy behaviors, further fuels her commitment to advocacy. "I’m running to remind myself and others that every mile counts—just like every story, voice, and act of support for survivors matters," she stated on her fundraising page.
As the marathon unfolds, police officers will be stationed along the route to manage traffic and ensure a smooth experience for all involved. Travelers in the area are encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys. The Carmel Police Department's official Facebook page will provide ongoing updates about road closures and other relevant information.
With the marathon kicking off this morning, the excitement is palpable in the air. Runners like Van Orman are not just racing against the clock but are also running for a cause that resonates deeply within the community. The Carmel Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of strength, resilience, and the collective spirit of those who refuse to be defined by their pasts.
As spectators gather to cheer on participants, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Each runner brings their own story and motivation to the starting line, making the event a tapestry of personal triumphs and shared experiences. Van Orman’s journey, in particular, highlights the importance of awareness and support for sexual assault survivors, turning her marathon run into a powerful statement of solidarity.
In the coming hours, the streets of Carmel will be alive with the sounds of pounding feet and cheering crowds. The marathon is not only a test of physical endurance but also a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. As the race progresses, the community will come together to celebrate the strength and determination of all participants, particularly those like Van Orman who are running for a cause greater than themselves.
As the clock ticks down to the marathon's start, the excitement builds. Will Van Orman and her fellow runners cross the finish line with their heads held high, having not only completed the race but also raised awareness for an essential cause? One thing is certain: the 2025 Carmel Marathon promises to be a memorable event, showcasing the power of community, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of survivors.
