Merchant was an all-around outstanding track and field athlete who graduated from Marshfield in 1917 and went on to participate in the 1920 and 1924 Olympics. In 1920, he set an intercollegiate record in the hammer throw while participating for the University of California and also set the Pacific Coast Conference record in the broadjump. He was the high-point winner at the Western Olympic Tryouts in California. In 1922, Merchant won two Intercollegiate Athletic Association of America track titles (shot put and hammer throw) helping California win its first NCAA championship in any sport, and was named the "greatest all-around athlete in the United States." He competed in the hammer throw in the 1924 Olympics and appeared ready to qualify for another Olympic team four years later, but had a bad day at the Olympic trials. He stayed involved after his competitive career, officiating local, national and international meets. He died in 1972.
 

Sites Not Affiliated With MHS Athletics, links provided for your enjoyment

Steve Prefontaine Run - Dates, Entry Forms, Etc
Pre Classic Track Meet - Results, Tickets, etc
StevePre.com - Take the Quiz