Defy the odds (verb): To accomplish something that most would deem impossible. It was the summer of 1936.
Person of Note | The Mack Robinson Legacy: Defying the Odds in Life and at the Olympics
The Olympic Games were set to take place in Berlin, Germany. Four hundred athletes were on their way to represent Team USA. Among them were 18 Black athletes, including my grandfather, Matthew “Mack” Robinson.
Person of Note | The Mack Robinson Legacy: Defying the Odds in Life and at the Olympics, Photo Credit: Dennis Robinson
The 1936 Olympic Games were unique in many ways: they were the first Olympics to be televised; they introduced the Torch Relay, which transported the Olympic flame from Greece; and new sporting events, including basketball and canoeing, debuted.
Most notably, these Olympics took place during Hitler’s Nazi regime, which promoted extreme nationalism, militarism, racism, and antisemitism. Hitler seized the opportunity to host the Olympic Games to showcase the self-proclaimed superiority of the Aryan race.
The odds were heavily stacked against Black athletes. Many were questioned about why they would agree to compete in a country that was racist toward them while representing another racist country. Yet, those 18 Black athletes knew that they would defy the status quo. By participating in these Olympic Games, they personified the idea of “taking up space,” and understood the lasting impact their presence would have for generations to come.
“It’s not too bad to be the second best in the world at what you’re doing, no matter what it is. It means that only one other person in the world was better than you.” – Mack Robinson
As many know, my grandfather competed in the 200-meter dash, earning the silver medal and finishing 0.4 seconds behind Jesse Owens. What many may not know, is that my grandfather beat Jesse Owens–who was making his second Olympic appearance–multiple times during the trials. Grandpa understood that all the attention was on Jesse and was determined to make a name for himself. However, the outcome was not as he had hoped. Grandpa wanted the gold. When interviewed about the race, Grandpa stated, “It’s not too bad to be the second best in the world at what you’re doing, no matter what it is. It means that only one other person in the world was better than you.” In that moment, I believe that my grandfather realized that he achieved something many could not, and that was something to be proud of.
While this historic event is familiar to many, there are other obstacles my grandfather overcame before the 1936 Games.
Person of Note | The Mack Robinson Legacy: Defying the Odds in Life and at the Olympics
Growing up, Grandpa was naturally competitive, and participating in sports was inevitable.
From playing tag and “chase the fox” in elementary school to running hurdles in junior high, athletics were an escape for him and his siblings. However, in high school, his physician declared him ineligible to participate in any strenuous activities due to a heart condition that could become fatal. Reluctantly, he agreed to stop participating, only to return shortly after. His drive was too great. His need to compete was all-consuming.
With a signed waiver from his mother, Mallie Robinson, relieving the school of any responsibility should his heart give out, Grandpa was allowed to run track in high school. He then went on to set school and league records, becoming the undefeated state champion in 1934. Despite the potential for serious complications, my grandfather’s unwavering passion for athletics and his refusal to let his condition limit him exemplified true perseverance. His success in the face of such a daunting challenge serves as a powerful testament to his strength and resilience.
Person of Note | The Mack Robinson Legacy: Defying the Odds in Life and at the Olympics, Photo Credit: Dennis Robinson
Cut to the spring of 1936.
My grandfather had no desire to participate in the upcoming Olympics. Competing and winning state-side was one thing, but competing on the world stage seemed unfathomable, especially as a Black athlete. However, with a track record like his, he realized he might have a shot, but lacked the resources to try out. Once word got out that my grandfather set his eyes on the Olympic Games, local businessmen raised $150 to get him to the New York trials. The result ultimately landed him a spot on the USA team. Remarkably, he achieved this feat wearing the same cleats with worn-down spikes that he had run in for the previous two track seasons, while other athletes like Jesse used the newest equipment and latest technologies at that time. Once again, Grandpa defied the odds.
As I write this on what would have been his 110th birthday, I am reminded of the resilience and tenacity that my grandfather embodied. The challenges he faced and defeated unapologetically. The mindset to show up, compete, and complete the race, no matter the placement. Grandpa refused to let his circumstances—from physical ailments to lack of resources—determine his outcome or success. He not only endured the odds, but he also defied them. I hope to embody these same values as I continue to exist in this world, while keeping his remarkable legacy alive.
*
Person of Note | The Mack Robinson Legacy: Defying the Odds in Life and at the Olympics, Photo Credit: Dennis Robinson
Inquiries for Dennis Robinson should be made at: “den@pasadenaclsc.com”
*
