The Untold Story of Matthew “Mack” Robinson, a Legendary Athlete and Civil Rights Advocate…

When we think of the Robinson family, the first name that comes to mind is usually Jackie Robinson, the iconic baseball player who broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947. However, Jackie’s older brother, Matthew MacKenzie “Mack” Robinson, also left an indelible mark on history as an outstanding athlete in his own right. Known for his athletic prowess and advocacy for civil rights, Mack’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance, family, and the pursuit of excellence.

Mack Robinson was born on July 18, 1914, in Cairo, Georgia, and was the eldest of five children. Raised by his mother, Mallie Robinson, after his father’s early death, Mack’s formative years were shaped by adversity. Mallie worked tirelessly to support her children, often taking on manual labor jobs to make ends meet. The family eventually relocated to Pasadena, California, where Mack would go on to achieve greatness.

A talented and driven athlete from a young age, Mack set numerous national junior college records in the 100-meter, 200-meter, and long jump while attending Pasadena Junior College. His success on the track was a precursor to what was to come. Mack’s hard work and dedication to athletics earned him a scholarship to the University of Oregon, where he would continue to shine. At Oregon, he won multiple titles in NCAA, AAU, and Pacific Coast Conference track meets, further establishing himself as a standout athlete.

Mack Robinson’s crowning achievement came at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin. In a race that would forever be etched in history, he competed in the 200-meter sprint, finishing second to the legendary Jesse Owens. Mack’s time of 20.7 seconds earned him the silver medal, just 0.4 seconds behind Owens, who would go on to win four gold medals at those games. Mack’s performance on the world stage was a monumental achievement and a testament to his skill, determination, and dedication to the sport.

Though he was overshadowed by his younger brother Jackie’s rise to fame, Mack’s accomplishments in athletics were far from insignificant. He was honored as one of the most distinguished graduates of the University of Oregon and was inducted into the University of Oregon Hall of Fame and the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame. His Olympic success and contributions to the sport of track and field remain a part of his enduring legacy.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Mack Robinson was a dedicated civil rights advocate. In the early 1970s, he served as the park director for Lemon Grove Park in East Hollywood, where he worked to improve the community. He was also known for his tireless efforts to combat street crime in his hometown of Pasadena, where he became a local hero.

In recognition of his lifelong contributions to athletics and his community, several locations have been named in Mack’s honor. The Pasadena Robinson Memorial, dedicated to both Mack and Jackie, stands as a tribute to their shared legacy. The Matthew “Mack” Robinson Post Office Building in Pasadena, along with the stadium at Pasadena City College, are also named after him.

Matthew Robinson passed away on March 12, 2000, at the age of 85, due to complications from diabetes, kidney failure, and pneumonia. Though often in the shadow of his brother, Mack’s achievements in athletics and his contributions to civil rights left a lasting impact on those who knew him. His legacy lives on, not only through his own accomplishments but through the continued inspiration he provided to generations of athletes and advocates for justice.