Silvia A. Martz
The incomparable Silvia A. Martz is being inducted into the Hawaii Running Hall of Fame as a Contributor. Many knew Silvia by her nickname “SAM” (which stands for the initials in her name). SAM was probably considered the mother of the running community in the 1970’s and 1980’s. Her level of support for the running community goes “above and beyond” what many would consider to be outstanding achievements in volunteerism. As a long-time member of the Mid-Pacific Road Runners Club, she worked at every MPRRC race and most major races on Oahu, seeing to it that the finish line was set up and operating flawlessly. Due to this knowledge, SAM also conducted clinics on how to run and manage the finish line and was responsible for encouraging and motivating countless people to become involved in volunteering for races.
SAM also managed the Honolulu Marathon Association office for more than 20 years and was the custodian of important documents and files for the USA Track and Field Hawaii Association. She was so well-regarded by runners that after her death, the Mid-Pacific Road Runners Club named a 5K race in her honor (“SAM’s 5K Memorial Run”) and erected a plaque on the pole across the finish line of the marathon course, which reads, “In Remembrance of Silvia ‘SAM’ MARTZ Who Worked the Finish Line of Countless Runs and Races June 28, 1992”. The plaque is periodically refreshed with fresh lei. The Honolulu Marathon Association dedicated the 25th running of the Honolulu marathon in her honor.
SAM also ran in many road races and was admired and beloved for the encouragement she gave to amateur runners; often being the only one cheering on the last stragglers as they crossed the finish line. SAM’s leadership in helping to set up and direct races inspired others to pursue roles as volunteer leaders in the running community. Her dedication to volunteering serves as a model and a reminder that it would not be possible to provide races and other athletic events without the support of volunteers like SAM.
SAM died in 1992 at the age of 69. She is survived by two daughters, Suzan Holmquist and Cynthia Martz, one son, Jasun Martz, five grandchildren, and four great grandchildren, plus her “hanai” son, Jonathan Hake, also a longtime runner in MPRRC events.
