The world of motorcycling is in mourning following the passing of Mary McGee, one of the most influential and respected figures in the history of motorsports. McGee died at age 87 due to complications from a stroke at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada. Her family confirmed the news, highlighting the impact she had on generations of athletes, both men and women, thanks to her bravery and determination.
“Mary embodied resilience, grace and optimism,” his family said in a statement. “She was a historic athlete and pioneer who faced life’s challenges with determination, inspiring all who had the privilege of knowing her.”
McGee’s life and career have been documented in the short film “Motorcycle Mary,” released this year. Directed by Haley Watson and executive produced by Lewis Hamilton, the documentary was recently released on ESPN’s YouTube channel and had its premiere at the Tribeca Festival in June.
Mary McGee was a pioneer who paved the way for many women
Born during World War II in Juneau, Alaska, McGee was sent with her older brother to live with her grandparents in Iowa. Influenced by her brother, who took up motorsports, Mary found her passion on the track, although at one time where women were barely seen in this area.
McGee began his career in the 1950s, competing in the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) category. In a world dominated by men, McGee not only participated in, but won races in iconic vehicles such as the Ferrari Testarossa, Mercedes-Benz 300SL, Porsche 550 Spyder and Corvette. Their victories not only grabbed headlines, but challenged the prejudices of the time.
Racing team owner Vasek Polak, who recognized his talent, suggested he try motorcycling as a way to improve his driving skills. “Why not?” responded McGee, who quickly excelled in this new discipline as well.
Before long, Mary McGee became the first woman to compete in motorcycle road racing in the United States and to obtain an FIM license. But his pioneering spirit did not stop there. During a conversation at a New Year’s party in 1963, actor and racer Steve McQueen, a close friend of McGee, suggested he get into off-road racing. “You should leave that road bike and come to the desert,” McQueen told him.
McGee accepted the challenge and embarked on a new phase of his career. In 1975, she became the first person, man or woman, to complete the demanding Baja 500, an off-road race in Mexico, alone. She was also the first woman to compete in motocross in the United States, as well as in international races in this category.
Mary McGee was not only a pioneer in motorsports, but she also opened doors for future generations of women in the world of racing. Its impact was not limited to the circuits; She dedicated much of her time to guiding and motivating other women to enter a sport that, thanks to her, was no longer exclusive to men.
His achievements were recognized with his induction into the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) Hall of Fame in 2018, an honor that underlines its historical importance in the world of motorsport.
Mary McGee’s story was made into a film in the documentary “Motorcycle Mary”directed by Haley Watson and produced by seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton. This tribute explores not only her exploits in motorsports and motorcycling, but also her indomitable character and her impact on the lives of those around her.
“Mary was an inspiration not only for her career, but for how she approached life,” declared Watson. “Learning her story changed my perception of what it means to be a true pioneer..”
Hamilton also paid tribute to Mary McGee through his social networks: “Mary McGee not only broke barriers in racing, she inspired generations of drivers. His legacy will live on as a beacon of hope and determination.”
