Merwin Graham was born in Bartlesville, OK, in March 1903. He attended the University of Kansas and was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. Graham was a member of the KU track team as well.

In 1924, Graham decided to try to make the United States Olympic Team that would be travelling to Paris, France, to compete. He qualified for the U.S. team with a first place finish at the National meet in the hop, step and jump event, which is today called the triple jump. He placed eighth in the event at the games.

In 1925, Graham, as captain of the KU track team, won the broad jump and placed second in the high jump at the Texas relays, and won first in both the triple jump and broad jump at the Drake University Relays. Grahams versatility made him a tough competitor in sprints and low and high hurdles.

In all, Graham earned more than 60 medals, several cups and numerous gold watches. He was elected to the Drake Relays Hall of Fame in 1959 as one of the most outstanding athletes over a 50-year period. He was honored for his triple jump.

After college, Graham went on to work for Mobil Oil Co., from which he retired after 36 years of service.