Mary McGee, a trailblazer in racing and an inspiration for many, has passed away at the age of 87, according to her family. McGee’s remarkable contributions to the world of off-road and motorcycle racing have left a lasting impact on generations of athletes who followed in her footsteps.
Her family shared that she died from complications related to a stroke at her home in Gardnerville, Nevada, just one day before the release of the short documentary “Motorcycle Mary,” which highlights her incredible career. The documentary, produced in part by seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, premiered at the Tribeca Festival in June and was made available globally on ESPN’s YouTube channel.
In a heartfelt statement, McGee’s family remembered her as a person of resilience, grace, and optimism. They expressed sorrow over her passing but took solace in knowing that her spirit will continue to inspire those she touched during her life.
McGee made history in 1975 by becoming the first person, regardless of gender, to successfully complete the challenging Baja 500 off-road race in Mexico as a solo competitor. Her portfolio spanned various racing venues as she began with auto racing before transitioning to motorcycle racing.
The documentary about her life was directed by Haley Watson, who expressed sadness at McGee’s passing but found comfort in the fact that she was surrounded by loved ones. Watson discovered McGee’s remarkable story during her research, which led to further exploration of her extraordinary racing career.
Following McGee’s death, Lewis Hamilton paid tribute on social media, calling her a pioneer in motorsports and expressing condolences to her family. He noted that her legacy would endure as a trailblazer in a field traditionally dominated by men.
Born in Juneau, Alaska, McGee faced numerous challenges on her pathway to success. After relocating to Iowa with her brother, who became a race car driver, McGee was inspired to pursue racing herself, a rarity for women of her time. With encouragement from racing team owner Vasek Polak, she transitioned from driving a Porsche Spyder to excelling in motorcycle racing.
Steve McQueen, the legendary actor and racing fan, also played a significant role in McGee’s participation in the Baja 500, a perilous competition. Over her career, she became the first woman to race motocross in the United States, compete in international competitions, and secure sponsorships from major brands.
Mary McGee’s influence on motorsports and her dedication to mentoring other women in racing solidified her position as one of the most significant figures in the sport. In recognition of her groundbreaking achievements, she was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2018.
