09/17/2026
Join us on Saturday 9/19/2026 4-9 pm in Downtown Salinas, CA as we celebrate honoring of Salinas Rotary Past President Sam Linder. The heart behind Relay For Life of the Salinas Valley.
Sam Linder is the reason Relay For Life of the Salinas Valley is here today.
More than 29 years ago, Sam moved to Salinas from Vancouver, Washington — where he had already become familiar with Relay For Life. Recognizing what it could mean for this community, he partnered with the local American Cancer Society chapter to establish the very first Salinas Relay.
He recruited a dedicated group of community members to bring the event to life — many of whom are still involved today. The following year, Sam stepped into the role of co-chair, a position he held for many years. Under his leadership, Relay grew tremendously — eventually raising more than $1 million at a single Relay event.
What began with just 30 teams in the first year has grown into the Relay we know today — #1 in California last year and #2 in the country.
Even after stepping away from day-to-day leadership, Sam remained deeply involved through the steering committee and in a mentoring role — sharing his knowledge, encouraging new committee members, and staying engaged at the state and national levels.
After years of dedicating himself to the fight against cancer, Sam faced the disease personally when he was diagnosed with skin cancer. Fortunately, it was detected and treated quickly. His diagnosis gave Relay For Life an even deeper meaning. He was no longer participating only as a member of the Sam Linder Honda team — he was also walking as a cancer survivor.
Sadly, we lost our dear friend, leader, and mentor a few months ago. In his memory, we are honored to continue the tradition Sam began all those years ago. His vision, leadership, generosity, and passion helped build something that has touched countless lives.
With gratitude and admiration, we dedicate this year's Relay For Life of the Salinas Valley to Sam Linder — our founder, mentor, leader, and cancer survivor.
Thank you, Sam, for believing in our community and for giving us a legacy that continues to shine.
May your memory be eternal.
