The 5' 10" 125 pound Robert Kelley was a true speed star at Concord High School. Graduating in 1933, Kelley was captain of his football team. What he lacked in size he made up for with his lightning quick speed. On the football field Kelley played in the offensive and defensive backfields, for obvious reasons.
Bob also starred in baseball. He was a tough catcher for Concord High School - an unusual one, who batted in the lead off spot because of his speed. Kelley was said to have a great arm and was always a threat on the basepaths. Throughout his high school career Kelley batted a consistent .300. Mysteriously, in his senior year, Kelley gave up baseball to run on the track team.
Track seemed to be Kelley's greatest love. Kelley's best events were the distance races. A top high school miler, he continued running for years after graduation. His best event was the 10 mile run, in which he was the New England champion once beating marathon legend Tarzan Brown. During his running career between 1933 and 1940 he won the following events: Gov. Michael Curley Cup 1936, PLSA 10 mile race 1939, John McCormack 10 mile 1940, Cathedral 10 mile 1939, Mayors Cup 1.5 mile 1933, St. Joseph's 5 mile 1940.
In 1941 he enlisted in the Navy and while in the military he took up boxing. In 1946 Kelley became a member of the Concord Police Department and later served as Chief of Police. While in the Concord Police Department, Kelley organized and coached a Police Athletic League Boxing team. He also helped form the Concord Pony League.
"Hail to the gridirons chiefest joy. Cheer the champion of all hearts. To this athletic boy, We give our faithful hearts." (from Concord High School yearbook)
