He could very be Oregon's version of the "Most Interesting Man in the World", Robert “Mac” MacTarnahan (May 1, 1915 – Oct. 25, 2004) is the state's most accomplished Masters Athlete.
The native Scotsman grew up in Portland, attended Jefferson High School and started a variety of businesses before he became a pioneer in Oregon's craft brewing industry. He wrote the check that launched Portland Brewing Company in 1986. Even with his busy life and success in business, he never lost love for sport and competition and dove into Masters sports. But not just one... there was track and field and wrestling.
His athletic feats are amazing. Mac was a four-time Masters world record holder on the track with a national record in the mile plus three world records in the 3000-meter steeplechase. In the steeplechase, he is a seven-time AAU National Masters champion, two-time USA National Senior Olympic champion, two-time World Senior champion. Mac is also a five-time National Masters wrestling champion. In all, Mac won more the 50 Masters Gold Medals.
He also enjoyed entering his Tennessee walking horses into competitions. The Oregon Sports Hall of Fame was proud to present McTarnahan Scholarships were presented to deserving Oregon high school graduates as they began their college years.
Robert “Mac” MacTarnahan was the first masters competitor ever chosen for induction into the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame.