Harry Mehock started the Mansfield Relays in 1927. Three teams participated: Mansfield Senior High School, Ashland, and Galion. The relays grew under Harry’s direction until 1942, when it was cancelled for four years during World War II because of gas and personnel shortages. The relays were re-established in 1947 and its magnitude grew through the 1980s, drawing over 3,500 athletes, representing 350 high schools, six states (Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky), and Canada.
When the Mansfield Relays moved to its present location, in 1964, and took on the name of its founder (Mehock Relays), the ten-lane, four-spur, all-weather surface was the first of its kind north of the Mason Dixon Line. The newly opened track resulted in eight new meet records – seven running events and one field event.
Prior to the meet, the track was dedicated to Harry Mehock in front of 6,500 track fans. The featured speaker was Jesse Owens, who participated in the 1932 and 1933 Mansfield Relays for Cleveland East Tech High School and later achieved gold in the 1936 Olympics. Owens credited Mehock for being the one to develop his competitive drive as a young track and field athlete.
Mansfield Mehock Relays Winners Who Became Olympic Champions
Mansfield Mehock Relays Individual Winners for Three Consecutive Years