 Robinson ran her first official race on March 30, 1928, at the age of 16, an indoor meet where she finished second to Helen Filkey in the 60-yard dash.At her next race, outdoors at 100 meters, she equalled the world record, though her time was not recognized because it was deemed wind-aided.At the Amsterdam Olympics, her third 100 m competition, Robinson reached the final and won, equalling the world record.