Lee Orr

Lee Orr, born on April 12, 1917, in Saskatchewan, Canada, was a remarkable Canadian athlete who made his mark in the world of athletics during the 1936 Summer Olympics. Growing up in Monroe, Washington, he excelled in various sports, including track and field, football, and tennis, showcasing his athletic prowess from a young age.

After completing high school, Orr joined the Washington State University Cougars, where he was mentored by coach Karl Schlademan. Balancing academics and athletics, he worked as a stock boy for thirty-five dollars a month, a testament to his dedication in an era before athletic scholarships. His hard work paid off as he claimed eight Pacific Coast North Division titles and an NCAA championship in the 440-yard run. Notably, he and his brother Jack were part of the Cougar relay team that set a world record in June 1937.

At the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Orr showcased his talent by finishing fifth in the 200-meter event, where he equaled the world record during the quarterfinals. He also competed as a member of the Canadian relay team, which finished fifth in the Men's 4 x 100 meters relay, although he was eliminated in the first round of the 100 meters contest.

Orr continued to shine at the 1938 Empire Games, where he won a gold medal with the Canadian team in the 4×440 yards relay event, despite being eliminated in the heats of the 440-yard dash. His athletic achievements earned him a place in the Washington Athletic Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy in the sport.

During World War II, Orr enlisted in the United States Army and later worked for the Hormel Meat Company before retiring to his hometown of Monroe, where he continued to be remembered for his contributions to athletics.