Big Sur Marathon Foundation

Jennifer Edwards is the Executive Director of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation (BSMF), bringing nearly two decades of experience in race management and community engagement to the organization. Before joining BSMF, she spent 15 years with Falmouth Road Race, Inc., where she played a pivotal role in shaping the strategic vision of one of the country’s most iconic road races.

With a deep passion for event management and community service, Jennifer has served on numerous boards and committees, including the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce, Falmouth’s Holidays by the Sea Jingle Jog, and the Falmouth Band Parents Association. She has also contributed to major endurance events through her work with DMSE Sports, Inc., including her role as Hydration Station Coordinator for the B.A.A. Boston Marathon.

Before transitioning to the running industry, Jennifer spent 15 years in healthcare and education, holding a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from UMass Amherst. Her experience in leadership, operations, and community-driven initiatives makes her a natural fit for BSMF, where she is dedicated to fostering memorable running experiences that promote health and benefit the local community.

Now based on the California coast, Jennifer is excited to bring her expertise to one of the most breathtaking marathons in the world, ensuring its continued success and impact for years to come.

As the Community Engagement Manager for the Big Sur Marathon Foundation (BSMF), Bertrand Newson plays a key role in coordinating volunteer services for the Big Sur International Marathon and the Monterey Bay Half Marathon. He also oversees the Palo Corona Community Trail Cross Country season and supports the expansion of community programs and events.

A Seaside, CA native, Bertrand brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, volunteer coordination, and program development. He has been actively involved in fundraising and charity efforts through organizations like the Taji 100, 80/20 Endurance Foundation, and the Wounded Warrior Project.

Before joining BSMF, Bertrand spent decades in the hospitality industry as a General Manager at full-service hotels in the Bay Area. In 2011, he founded Too Legit Fitness, LLC, which has grown into a community of nearly 1,000 members, providing coaching and training for athletes of all levels.

With a strong background in community outreach and a passion for fitness, Bertrand is dedicated to furthering BSMF’s mission of creating exceptional events that promote health and benefit the local community. Other affiliations and leadership experience include Governance Board Member and Certified Running Coach with RRCA, certified official for USATF, an 80/20 certified running coach and a Brand Ambassador/Run Coach for lululemon.

Chris Balog has been an integral part of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation (BSMF) since its early days, contributing her expertise and dedication to the organization for nearly four decades. As Administrative Services Manager and the last continually active founder of the event, she plays a vital role in ensuring the seamless execution of BSMF’s world-renowned events, from overseeing logistics to supporting race operations and volunteer coordination.

Throughout her tenure, Chris has worn many hats within the organization, including serving as Assistant Race Director for several years. Her deep knowledge of race operations and unwavering commitment to the running community have been instrumental in shaping the success of the Big Sur International Marathon and its associated events. She moved to the area in 1979 after graduate school and currently resides in Pacific Grove with her family.

Becky Jones has been part of the Big Sur Marathon community for over 20 years, starting as a runner before becoming a dedicated volunteer along the iconic Highway 1 course. She quickly took on leadership roles, managing the Walk event and eventually joining the Big Sur Marathon Foundation Board of Directors.

Becky works closely with her invaluable team of volunteers to ensure every finisher receives their medallion at the Big Sur International Marathon and oversees smooth 3K registration at the Monterey Bay Half Marathon.

When she’s not on the course or behind the registration desk, Becky runs a successful local real estate brokerage, bringing the same dedication and passion to her business as she does to the running community.

David Rosenberg is a globally recognized leader in the attractions and hospitality industry, currently guiding SSA’s international growth and strategy efforts across 90+ attractions. He oversees SSA Ventures and leads the organization’s commitment to enhancing guest experiences and advancing conservation initiatives worldwide.

Prior to joining SSA, David served as Vice President of Guest Experience at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, where he was responsible for shaping all facets of the visitor journey. His career began at Walt Disney World in resort and casting operations, followed by executive leadership roles with Hyatt Hotels Corporation before he joined the Aquarium’s senior team in 2007.

David is a past Chairman of the Global Board of Directors for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), where he was honored with the Outstanding Service Award for his contributions to the global attractions industry. He has also served as Chair of the Aquarium Affairs Committee for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and as an accreditation inspector. A frequent keynote speaker and mentor, David collaborates with students and academic leaders at the University of Arizona and California State University Monterey Bay, where he chairs the Hospitality Academic Advisory Committee.

David is honored to serve on the Governance Board of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, where his passion for world-class guest experiences and community connection aligns perfectly with the Foundation’s mission.

Dino Pick is is a member of the Executive Board as Immediate Past Chair of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, bringing decades of leadership experience in both military and public service. A retired U.S. Army officer, he specialized in military intelligence and Middle East foreign affairs, serving in key advisory and operational roles.

Beyond his military career, Dino has dedicated himself to public service, holding municipal leadership roles in Monterey and Del Rey Oaks and currently serving as an elected official on the Monterey Peninsula Airport Board. A lifelong learner and linguist, he is a graduate of the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center and speaks multiple languages, including Arabic and Farsi.

When he’s not supporting the running community, Dino enjoys sailing and exploring the outdoors, embracing the natural beauty of the Central Coast.

Doug Oldfield, Vice Chair, has served as legal counsel for the Big Sur Marathon Foundation’s Governance Board since 2019 and is a member of the Executive, Finance, and Development and Allocations Committees. A dedicated runner, he has completed the Big Sur Marathon twice, along with countless 5Ks, 10Ks, and half marathons—building on his background as a high school distance runner and NCAA steeplechase competitor.

Doug has played a significant role in race organization and community events. Beginning in 2010, he was a founding board member and start director for the Run in the Name of Love Run/Walk event in Carmel, a charitable fundraiser sponsored by the Big Sur Marathon Foundation until its closure due to COVID-19. He also founded and co-directed the Run in the Forest 5K/10K, sponsored by Stevenson School in Pebble Beach, which is now in its 29th year.

Beyond his contributions to the running community, Doug has served in leadership roles for various nonprofit organizations. As President, Chair, and Executive Committee member of the Carmel Mission Foundation, he helped raise over $14 million to restore and preserve the historic Carmel Mission. He has also served as a director for multiple boards and foundations over the years.

A practicing attorney for over 40 years, Doug has also acted as a mediator and arbitrator for more than 30 years. Before law school, he was the Executive Director of the College Legal Clinic, Inc., a nonprofit that continues to operate today. Under his leadership, the clinic expanded to serve six colleges and universities, with three offices, 60 student interns, and 150 attorneys.

Doug and his wife, Fana, are lay ministers at the Carmelite Monastery in Carmel. They have two daughters and a grandson.

Hank Armstrong has been involved with the Big Sur International Marathon since 1986, when his wife, Julie, enlisted him to drive the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s collecting truck as the press truck for the inaugural race – a role he held for nearly 30 years. His dedication to the event led him to the Big Sur Marathon Foundation’s governance board at its inception in 2015, where he has since served as secretary and vice chair on the executive committee.

Hank currently chairs the Community Fitness Committee, helping to inspire a healthy community and the next generation of runners, and is a past chair of the Board Development Committee.

He retired as Vice President of Communications from the Monterey Bay Aquarium after a 34-year career that began before the Aquarium even opened.

Hugo Ferlito has been a dedicated member of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation Governance Board for decades and is the longest-serving member of the board. A retired dentist and lifelong athlete, he was also one of the “Grizzled Vets”– a select group of runners who have completed every Big Sur International Marathon since its inception in 1985 – for 33 years.

Hugo’s passion for running began after graduating from dental school in 1970, inspired by Frank Shorter’s 1972 Olympic gold medal victory. Since then, he has completed over 100 marathons, including the Boston Marathon, and has taken on even greater challenges, competing in three Ironman triathlons. He remains committed to an active lifestyle, balancing daily running, swimming, and strength training to maintain his fitness.

When he’s not training or racing, Hugo and his wife, Karen, enjoy traveling the world for races, with past destinations including Barcelona and Havana. He believes in staying active at any age and encourages others to “get to the starting line of whatever you are trying to do.”

Hugo lives in Carmel, CA, and continues to be an integral part of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, bringing his experience and enthusiasm to the organization year after year.

John Hiestand is a seasoned finance executive with extensive experience leading high-growth organizations across the fintech, insurance, and capital markets sectors. His career spans strategic roles in accounting, operations, governance, and financial planning, including work with both public and private companies preparing for IPOs and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. A CPA and CFA, John is known for his collaborative leadership style, sharp analytical mind, and steady ethical compass.

Since joining the Governance Board of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation in 2025, John has brought his financial expertise and commitment to organizational integrity to support the Foundation’s long-term sustainability and growth. A firm believer in the power of sport to unite and inspire, he’s proud to contribute to an organization that celebrates community, endurance, and the beauty of the California coast.

John Mutty is a career Naval officer and pilot whose love of running brought him to the Monterey Peninsula after retiring as a Navy Captain. His first experience with the Big Sur International Marathon in 1994 was so impactful that it influenced his decision to settle in the area.

Continuing his connection to the Navy, John became a professor at the Naval Postgraduate School, serving as the Conrad Chair of Financial Management and later as Faculty Chair.

John’s involvement with the Big Sur Marathon Foundation spans more than three decades. He has served as a member of the Board of Directors, Board Chair, and Course Director, and he and his wife, Linda, now serve as Co-Transportation Coordinators. A dedicated runner, John has completed the Big Sur Marathon 21 times, and his 31 years of service to BSMF have made him an integral part of the organization’s history.

Kirby Garry has been part of Cal State Monterey Bay Athletics for nearly two decades, serving as Athletic Director since 2013. Over the years, he’s helped shape Otter Athletics into a strong NCAA Division II program, leading with a focus on student-athlete well-being, leadership, and community engagement. His peers recognized his impact in 2024 when he was named NACDA’s Division II Athletic Director of the Year.

A South Dakota native, Kirby played college football at the University of North Dakota, where he was a team captain and All-Conference wide receiver, helping his team win multiple conference titles. He later earned his master’s degree in athletic administration from the University of South Dakota.

Now calling Pacific Grove home, Kirby enjoys staying active outdoors, especially walking along the scenic coast with his wife, Jody, and their two doodles, Rocky and Leo. He and Jody also stay busy keeping up with their four kids—Noah, Ben, Addy, and Grace.

Mandy Lebow has spent the past 17 years working in educational settings, bringing a wealth of experience in admissions, development, athletics, and community engagement. A proud alumna of Sacred Heart School and Notre Dame High School in Salinas, she has returned to both institutions in leadership roles, helping to shape the next generation of students.

From 2008 to 2012, Mandy served as the Director of Admissions at Notre Dame High School in Salinas, fostering a welcoming environment for prospective students. She then transitioned to Sacred Heart School as the Director of Development and Marketing from 2011 to 2016, strengthening community ties and enhancing the school’s visibility. Her passion for athletics led her back to Notre Dame High School, where she served as Athletic Director from 2016 to 2021 while coaching cross country and long-distance track for both Notre Dame and Palma for 12 years.

In 2021, Mandy took on a new challenge as the Senior Events and Office Specialist Manager at Blue Zones Project Monterey County, working to promote wellness initiatives throughout the community. She now serves as the Alumni and Events Manager at Palma School, where she also oversees grants and scholarships.

A lifelong advocate for fitness and youth engagement, Mandy was an avid runner with experience in 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and Spartan Races before transitioning to hiking. She has been married to Dennis for 30 years and is a devoted mother to her daughter, Kaela. Additionally, she serves on the Youth and Marketing Committee of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation, where she continues to share her enthusiasm for running and youth wellness.

Mimi Hahn retired as the Chief Marketing Officer for the Monterey Bay Aquarium at the end of 2022. She remains involved in the community as Chair of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation Governance Board and a member of the Montage Health Foundation Board of Trustees.

When not volunteering, Mimi enjoys gardening, baking, watercolor painting, running, biking and playing disc golf and pickleball. 

Sharen Carey has dedicated her career to healthcare and community service, spending decades ensuring access to medical care in Big Sur. A physician assistant and longtime Executive Director of the Big Sur Health Center, Sharen led the organization until her retirement in January 2025, leaving a lasting impact on the region she has called home since 1984.

Her path to healthcare began in medical research, working at the Salk Institute in San Diego before continuing her studies as a Medical Technologist at Children’s Hospital San Francisco. She later spent a year at the German Cancer Research Institute in Heidelberg before returning to the U.S. to work at UC San Diego. Eventually, she pursued her physician assistant degree at USC’s Medical School, setting the stage for her life’s work in patient care.

Sharen’s connection to the Big Sur Marathon Foundation started as a participant—she’s tackled everything from the 5K to the 21-miler—but in 2019, she joined the Board of Directors, where she now plays an integral role. She serves on the Board Governance and Personnel Committees and is the chair of the Strategic Planning Committee. Alongside her husband, Hal Latta, she proudly oversees the 21-miler, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience for participants.

Though she modestly claims she’s not much of a runner, her commitment to the Big Sur running community says otherwise.

Tina Lavorato has been a member of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation Board of Directors since 2023, bringing a deep commitment to community service and engagement. A lifelong resident of Salinas Valley, she has dedicated her career to education and outreach, helping to shape opportunities for local families.

Tina holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources from Golden Gate University and is a graduate of Leadership Salinas Valley. She is also an alumna of the Junior League of Monterey County, further reflecting her dedication to community involvement. She currently oversees Admissions at Sacred Heart School in Salinas, where she plays a key role in welcoming new students and their families.

Tina and her husband have raised two sons and take great pride in their service to the United States military. She is honored to serve on the Big Sur Marathon Foundation Board of Directors, supporting its mission of giving back to the local community through health, wellness, and running initiatives.

Winli McAnally is a leader in executive education and organizational development with a deep passion for both community service and running. She began volunteering with the Big Sur Marathon in 2008, taking on various roles—from the start team and finish area to developing volunteer coordination efforts for the Defense Language Institute. She now manages the Old Monterey Course for the Half Marathon and oversees Start Gear for the Marathon.

Since joining the Big Sur Marathon Foundation Board in 2016, Winli has served on multiple committees and played a key role in guiding the organization through significant transformations, including challenges posed by the pandemic and natural disasters.

Running has long been a source of therapy and balance for Winli, and her children grew up seeing service and running as integral parts of their family’s lifestyle, often volunteering alongside her from a young age. Blending her love for hiking and running, she discovered ultra trail running and has been hooked ever since.

Looking ahead, Winli envisions the Foundation continuing to innovate and expand its philanthropic efforts—fostering inclusivity, strengthening local partnerships, enhancing youth fitness programs, and growing volunteer opportunities to ensure its long-term sustainability.