Bob Mathias

Former United States Representative

Robert Bruce Mathias was an American decathlete, two-time Olympic gold medalist in the event, a United States Marine Corps officer, actor, and United States Congressman representing the state of California.

Basics

•Lived: Nov 17, 1930 - Sep 02, 2006 (age 75)

•Height: 6 feet 3 inches (same as Milt Campbell)

•Spouse: Gwendoyln Alexander (m. 1977 - 2006) · Melba Mathias (m. 1954 - 1976)

•Children: Alyse Alexander (Daughter), Romel Mathias, Reiner Mathias, Marissa Mathias, Megan Mathias

•Education: Stanford University

•Awards: James E. Sullivan Award (1948), Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year (1952)

Timeline

1948:While at Tulare Union in early 1948, Mathias took up the decathlon at the suggestion of his track coach, Virgil Jackson.

1952:At Helsinki in 1952, Mathias established himself as one of the world's greatest all-around athletes.

1952:Bob Mathias was awarded Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year in 1952.

1954:He and his wife Melba can be seen on the 29th April 1954 edition of You Bet Your Life.

1966:(These were the same eight years in which Ronald Reagan served two terms as governor of California.) He defeated Harlan Hagen, the 14-year Democratic Party incumbent, by about 11% in the 1966 election.

1975:From June to August 1975, Mathias served as the deputy director of the Selective Service.

Movies etc.

Bob Mathias, American Legend

BlackFive · 4/26/2018

Bob Mathias On How To Master The Art Of Self-Confidence

Lifehack · 3/22/2016

Mathias’ decathlon victory remembered – Orange County Register

Orange County Register · 8/8/2012

Minotaur, the Wild Beast of Cr…1960

The Troubleshooters

China Doll 1958

Plus (10+) more.