Bjorn Johnson
Staff Writer
April 22, 2016
SENIOR SOFTBALL: Senior softball player's determined to play 'as long as the good Lord
lets me'
Tony Martin makes the hit during a GCSSA game at Western Gateway Park Tuesday evening.
Tony Martin runs a double during a GCSSA game at Western Gateway Park Tuesday evening.
Tony Martin coaches third base during a GCSSA game at Western Gateway Park Tuesday evening.
Tony Martin makes the hit during a GCSSA game at Western Gateway Park Tuesday evening.
Tony Martin makes the play at second base during a GCSSA game at Western Gateway Park Tuesday
evening.
Tony Martin makes the hit during a GCSSA game at Western Gateway Park Tuesday evening.
Tony Martin always tries his best.
In his 90 years, Martin said he has always been determined and dedicated to giving his all — and more.
As a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, or as a ballplayer in the Gold Country Senior Softball Association, Martin said he always gives it “200
percent.”
Martin has been playing in the GCSSA for nearly 30 years, starting in 1987. He played third base when he was into his 80s, determined to do his best —
regardless of position. He’s so determined in fact, he plans on playing, “as long as the good Lord lets me.”
Considering his health and determination, that could very well be quite awhile.
Naturally he has slowed down over the years, but as he embarks on his ninth decade he’s still taking the field, and producing. Last season, Martin
notched a .287 batting average and drove in 15 runs. This season, Martin plays for B&C True Value and notched an RBI and a run scored in their first
game.
“It’s under my skin, that I can’t play like I used to, but I still give it everything I have,” said Martin.
He added what he enjoys most about softball is trying to get the out, regardless of how difficult the play.
A bit about Tony
Martin, a Massachusetts native, served four years in the United States Navy. He served during World War II, where his ship earned four battle stars in
the Pacific.
Martin moved to the Bay Area after his four-year stint in the Navy. He said he chose the Bay Area to get away from the cold weather.
With a desire to live in the country, Martin moved to Nevada County with his wife in 1981 when he retired. After seeing an ad in the paper for a home in
Nevada County, he said he packed up and moved to Grass Valley.
Martin appreciates the outdoors, always has. He enjoys the challenges provided by the outdoors and by sports, and likes to exert himself. In his younger
years he enjoyed the snow and skiing in the Sierra.
He has been exercising his whole life, be it playing sports, or working as a letter carrier for the Postal Service. He said all the physical fitness is great for
his health and recommends to seniors they should get out and try some exercise for themselves.
As for Martin’s advice for younger people — always give your all in every endeavor. It will always help later in life. And, as he has said since the start,
you should always be determined to do your best.
Bjorn Johnson is a Bitney College Prep High School student and an intern with The Union.