An outstanding track performer, Jim Gordon was the first Miamian to participate in the Olympics. He was a finalist in the 400-meters in the Olympic Games held in Los Angeles in 1932. Gordon led Miami to three consecutive Buckeye Conference track championships from 1929-31. He was the top point producer on the team, participating in the 100-, 220- and 400-yard dashes, mile relay and low hurdles. He was undefeated and Buckeye Conference champion for three years in his specialty, the 440. His best time in the 440 came in the final American trails for the Olympics when he was clocked in :47.8. He lettered three years as an end in football under Coach Chester Pittser and was a teammate of Paul Brown. He caught two touchdown passes from Brown in a game against Wittenberg in 1928. Following graduation from Miami in 1931, Gordon coached eight years at Cleveland West Tech High School and two years at Lehigh University. He received his master’s degree from Ohio State in 1935. Gordon returned to Miami in 1946 as an assistant in track, football and basketball. He became Athletic Manager in 1948. In 1950 he assumed the position as Chairman of Men’s Health and Physical Education Department. He is the author of a textbook entitled Track and Field: Changing Concepts and Modern Techniques. Speaking of his book, which is dedicated to George Rider, Gordon said: “I felt the need to document Miami’s track history and to help preserve on record Miami’s track tradition.”