Michael Martinez has been lifting the spirits of runners at the Big Sur Marathon for the past twenty years, continuing a beloved tradition started by his mentor, Jonathon Lee. Seated at a grand piano stationed at Bixby Bridge, Martinez plays for thousands of participants each year.
“I performed at Lover’s Point on Jonathan’s 51st birthday. We held a two-hour concert, and it was just a beautiful day at Lover’s Point in Pacific Grove—perfect weather,” Martinez recalled. “Sadly, just two weeks later, he passed away.”
Lee, who died from health complications related to diabetes, left a lasting musical legacy that Martinez proudly carries forward.
“He took seriously the idea of finding someone to continue his legacy and music,” Martinez explained. “He wished for me to carry it on at the marathon.”
At just 15 years old, Martinez stepped into the role at Bixby Bridge, honoring Lee’s memory with each note he plays.
Two decades later, Martinez has firmly established himself as the Big Sur Marathon’s “Piano Man,” always keeping alive the memory of the mentor and friend who entrusted him with this special tradition.
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