Women Powered by Withings
As we approach the 50th Boston 10K for Women, our sponsor Withings will recognize 10 amazing athletes that reflect the courage, determination, and passion of our running community. We hope this ongoing blog series will introduce some new and familiar faces, and inspire you on your 10K journey.
Brianna Van Orden never thought of herself as a runner.
Growing up in a rural town in Vernon, New Jersey, her days were filled with tennis and martial arts—not long-distance miles. But when she moved to Boston for Northeastern University’s demanding Doctor of Pharmacy program, everything changed. Surrounded by a new city and a new routine, many of the hobbies that once grounded her faded away.
She knew she needed something—an outlet to move, to breathe, to reconnect with herself.
So one day, she laced up the only sneakers she had (later realizing they were meant for yoga), put on running clothes, and headed out along the Charles River. The run wasn’t perfect—she started too fast, didn’t know how to fuel properly, and her ankles paid the price—but she did something she never believed she could: she ran four miles.
That moment changed everything.
Running became her way to explore Boston, clear her mind, and push past the limits she once placed on herself. Just two months later, with minimal training, Brianna completed her first race—the Boston 10K for Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
She didn’t stop there.
Inspired, she signed up for the Boston 10K for Women—and this time, she brought her family with her. Eight strong women crossed the finish line together, turning her personal journey into a shared celebration of strength and possibility.
Now, Brianna continues to inspire others by sharing her story, encouraging anyone who feels unsure or afraid to take that first step. This October, she returns to the Boston 10K for Women—running to prove that you don’t have to start as a runner to become one.
