Matthew MacKenzie “Mack” Robinson was a renowned track and field athlete. He is best known for winning a silver medal in the 1936 Summer Olympics, where he broke the Olympic record in the 200 meter but still finished behind Jesse Owens. Robinson was the brother to legendary baseball player, Jackie Robinson.

Robinson was born in Cairo, Georgia. He along with his siblings were raised by their mother, Mallie Robinson after their father left the family. Robinson attended Pasadena Junior College after high school. While at the school, he set national junior college records in the 100 meter, 200 meter and long jump.

He earned a place on the Olympic team in 1936 after placing second in the 200 meters at the United States Olympic Trials. Robinson went on to attend the University of Oregon, graduating in 1941. With Oregon he won numerous titles in NCAA, AAU and Pacific Coast Conference track meets.
Robinson was honored as one of the most distinguished graduates of the University of Oregon and is a member of the University of Oregon Hall of Fame.

After his career in sports, Robinson worked to fight crime on the streets of Pasadena. The Pasadena Robinson Memorial, dedicated to both Matthew and Jackie, was dedicated in 1997. Robinson died of complications from diabetes, kidney failure, and pneumonia, on March 12, 2000.

sources:

NY TIMES

http://www.blackpast.org/aaw/mack-robinson-1912-2000