Local Entrepreneur, Community Leader & PR Pro Makes Her Professional Running Debut at 42

Local entrepreneur. PR expert. Lifelong runner. Now, professional athlete.

Melissa Perlman, founder and president of BlueIvy Communications, made her professional marathon debut in the Women’s Elite Division at the 2025 Boston Marathon—at age 42. On April 21, she lined up alongside Olympians and world record holders, officially stepping into the world of pro running.

“Walking on a dream,” Melissa said of the experience.

That dream became reality thanks to years of training and determination.

How She Got There

Melissa qualified for Boston after running one of the fastest marathon times in the country in 2024. Her journey began back in the late 1990s, when she became a state champion track and cross-country athlete at Spanish River High School. After taking a break from competition in college, she reignited her love for running in her 30s.

Her first marathon came in 2018. From there, she kept pushing. With each race, she improved. By 2024, she earned a top finish at the Chicago Marathon—securing her spot at Boston.

In the days leading up to the race, she was featured in The Palm Beach Post, Runner’s World, and The Boca Tribune, where she shared her personal mission.

“I was running with my heart and with a mission—to show that it’s never too late to chase bold goals,” she said.

A Leader Beyond the Track

Melissa isn’t just making headlines on race day. She’s also a respected local business leader and a dedicated community supporter.

Since founding BlueIvy Communications in 2011, Melissa has grown the agency into one of South Florida’s top PR firms. Her team is known for its authentic storytelling, strong media relationships, and passion for helping nonprofits, small businesses, and national brands.

She previously served as President of the Gold Coast PR Council, where she now sits on the board. She’s also active in Maccabi USA, an organization that promotes Jewish pride through sports. Plus, BlueIvy is a proud member of the Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce.

What’s Next for Melissa?

Melissa isn’t done yet. Her Boston Marathon debut marked a major milestone—but she’s already thinking ahead. With new races and bigger goals on the horizon, she plans to keep training, racing, and inspiring others.

At the same time, she continues to lead a thriving agency and give back to the Delray Beach community. Her story proves that passion and persistence can carry you far—no matter when or where you start.

Follow Melissa’s journey at @melsrunsfast and connect with her team at BlueIvy Communications.

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📸 See Palm Beach Post Article
📰 Featured in “Runner’s World” and “The Boca Tribune”
👟 Sponsored by @PUMARunning

More Than a Runner

Outside of racing, Melissa is a respected business leader and community builder. Since founding BlueIvy Communications in 2011, she’s helped grow the agency into one of South Florida’s top PR firms, known for authentic storytelling, strategic media outreach, and supporting nonprofits, small businesses, and national brands alike.

Melissa is the former President of the Gold Coast PR Council and currently serves on its board. She is also actively involved in Maccabi USA, an organization that builds Jewish pride through sports. BlueIvy is also a proud member of the Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce.

What’s Next?

Melissa’s story is far from over. Her Boston Marathon debut is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with persistence, purpose, and a whole lot of passion. She’s not just running races—she’s setting the pace for a vibrant, connected, and empowered Delray Beach. She’s already eyeing future races and new goals—while continuing to lead a thriving business and give back to her community.

We’re incredibly proud to see a Delray Beach leader go the distance on one of the biggest stages in the world. She’s proving that with heart, hustle, and a little hometown support—anything is possible.

Follow Melissa’s journey at @melsrunsfast and stay connected with BlueIvy Communications for what’s next.

📷 Photo credit: @guilloatue

🗞️ Media contact: BlueIvy.co