Malvin Whitfield was born on 11 October 1924 in Bay City, Texas, USA. He was married to Nola, Mary and Nola . He died on 19 November 2015 in Washington, District of Columbia, USA.
He competed at every distance from 200 meters to 1,000 meters. His favorite event was the half-mile, or 880-yard run. From 1946 to 1955, he won 66 out of 69 races at that distance. He set six world records at various distances, including twice in the 880.