Mary McGee: Legendary Motorsports Pioneer Dies at 87 \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Mary McGee, a trailblazer in motorsports and the subject of the Oscar-contending documentary Motorcycle Mary, passed away at 87 due to complications from a stroke. Known for her groundbreaking achievements as the first woman to road race motorcycles in the U.S. and the first person to solo the Baja 500 off-road race, McGee inspired generations of racers. Her remarkable story is celebrated in a documentary released just one day after her passing, ensuring her legacy endures.
Quick Looks: A Motorsports Legend Who Defied Limits
- Motorsports Pioneer: Mary McGee was the first woman to road race motorcycles in the U.S. and the first person to solo the Baja 500.
- Historic Achievements: She shattered barriers in both auto and motorcycle racing, inspiring future generations.
- Oscar-Contending Documentary: Motorcycle Mary, produced by Lewis Hamilton and Ben Proudfoot, honors her extraordinary career.
- Mentor and Icon: McGee was renowned for mentoring young racers and breaking gender barriers in motorsports.
- Enduring Legacy: Inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2018, McGee’s influence on motorsports remains unparalleled.
Deep Look
Breaking Barriers in Racing
Born in Juneau, Alaska, during World War II, Mary McGee’s path to motorsports began in an unlikely place: the Iowa farm where she was sent to live with her grandparents during her childhood. Encouraged by her older brother, who was a race car driver, McGee developed an early passion for speed and competition.
Early Success in Auto Racing
Mary McGee began her career racing cars, a sport almost entirely dominated by men at the time. Team owner Vasek Polak recognized her talent and gave her the opportunity to drive a Porsche Spyder. Her skill quickly earned her victories on the track, and she soon became a respected figure in the racing community.
Transition to Motorcycles
Historic Baja 500 Solo Run
Perhaps her most famous achievement came in 1975, when she became the first person—man or woman—to complete the grueling Baja 500 off-road race solo. The feat was inspired by encouragement from her friend, actor and racing enthusiast Steve McQueen. Her solo completion of the 500-mile race cemented her reputation as a fearless competitor willing to push the limits.
Mentorship and Advocacy
Mary McGee’s impact went far beyond her own accomplishments. Known for mentoring young racers, she was a vocal advocate for women in motorsports. Her encouragement and guidance helped pave the way for a new generation of female competitors in what was traditionally a male-dominated field.
A Film to Preserve Her Legacy
Mary McGee’s incredible journey is the subject of Motorcycle Mary, a short documentary directed by Haley Watson and co-produced by Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton and two-time Oscar winner Ben Proudfoot.
Premiering at the Tribeca Festival earlier this year, the documentary has garnered critical acclaim for its portrayal of McGee’s trailblazing career. Released globally on ESPN’s YouTube channel just one day after her passing, the film ensures her legacy reaches a broader audience.
Watson, the film’s director, shared her admiration for McGee:
“Uncovering Mary’s story revealed a much larger narrative of resilience, grit, and determination. She leaves behind an extraordinary legacy.”
Recognition and Honors
Mary McGee’s contributions to motorsports earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2018. The honor recognized her unparalleled achievements and enduring impact on the sport.
Tributes from the Racing Community
Shortly after McGee’s passing was announced, tributes poured in from across the racing world:
- Lewis Hamilton: “Her legacy will endure as a trailblazer in the world of motorsports and beyond.”
- Haley Watson: “Mary’s story is one of extraordinary grit and determination, and I feel honored to have shared it.”
A Lasting Legacy
Beyond the racetrack, McGee’s mentorship and advocacy for women in racing cemented her status as an icon of resilience and empowerment. Her story, captured in Motorcycle Mary, ensures that her legacy will continue to inspire.
As her family wrote:
“While we are deeply saddened by this loss, we are comforted knowing that her light will continue to shine in everyone she touched.”
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