Mary McGee, a pioneering figure in the realm of motor racing, has sadly passed away at the age of 87 in Gardnerville, Nevada, as reported by her family. Renowned not just for her skills on the racetrack but also for her unwavering spirit, McGee’s life encapsulated the essence of resilience, optimism, and a trailblazing attitude that inspired countless individuals both within and outside the motorsports community. Her family’s tribute on social media succinctly reflected her character: “a historic athlete and a motorsports pioneer who embraced life’s challenges while caring deeply for others.”
McGee’s remarkable journey as a race car driver and motorcyclist was solidified further with the recent premiere of the documentary “Motorcycle Mary” at the Tribeca Festival. This Oscar-contending film explores her remarkable achievements in what many considered a male-dominated sport. The film documents her unprecedented accomplishment as the first-ever competitor, regardless of gender, to complete the challenging Baja 500 off-road race. Her pioneering achievements served not only as personal milestones but also as milestones for women in motorsport, thereby altering the landscape for aspiring female racers.
Premiering on ESPN’s YouTube channel, “Motorcycle Mary” is directed by Haley Watson with the prestigious backing of Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton. Marsha Cooke, the vice president of ESPN Films, highlighted McGee’s story as “a testament to her incredible skills and perseverance.” The film encapsulates McGee’s spirit and the legacy she leaves behind—a legacy that proves that barriers are made to be broken. In sharing her experiences on and off the track, McGee hopes to inspire a new generation of racers, especially women, to pursue their dreams with vigor and tenacity, countering norms and expectations along the way.
Mary Bernice McGee, born on December 12, 1936, in Juneau, Alaska, eventually found herself immersed in a world of speed and adrenaline after moving to Iowa with her older brother, Jim. It was Jim, a race car driver himself, who encouraged Mary to break into a sport where her gender was often marginalized. With the support of racing team owner Vasek Polak, McGee quickly made a name for herself within the racing realm by driving Porsche Spyders to victory and later transitioned into motorcycle racing, excelling just as fiercely.
Among her many adventures, it was the iconic Steve McQueen who nudged her towards motocross, where she not only competed but thrived. Reflecting on her passion, McGee famously stated that racing represented “freedom, courage, and pushing myself beyond limits.” These words resonate with anyone who has ever faced adversity and chose to rise above it. By sharing her journey through “Motorcycle Mary,” she aims to empower others, especially women, to embrace their drive and venture into uncharted territories.
At the heart of McGee’s story is not only her unmatched talent but also her profound ability to inspire. Even at 70, she continued to race, further testimony to her indomitable spirit. Her induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2018 signified both recognition of her accomplishments and her exemplary contribution to the sport.
As we mourn the loss of Mary McGee, her family has expressed gratitude towards those who supported her throughout her life, especially during her final moments. The legacy of Motorcycle Mary will undeniably live on, not merely through her accolades but through the inspiration she has ignited in the hearts of those she touched. Her life story is a clarion call to all, echoing that age is no barrier, and that dreams, no matter how unconventional, can be realized with determination and grit.
In remembering Mary McGee, we celebrate not only a legendary athlete but also a beacon of hope who shattered expectations and opened doors for women in motorsports. As her story continues to inspire future generations, her legacy will remain a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit.
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