Motorsports Pioneer Mary McGee Dies a Day Before Documentary Release

‘Motorcycle Mary’ McGee, Racing Trailblazer, Passes Away at 87

GARDNERVILLE, Nev. (AP) — Mary McGee, a trailblazer in the world of racing and the subject of the Oscar-contending documentary Motorcycle Mary, has passed away at the age of 87.

Her family confirmed that McGee died on Wednesday from complications related to a stroke at her home in Gardnerville, Nevada. Remarkably, her passing came just one day before the release of the documentary about her life on ESPN’s YouTube channel. The film, produced in part by seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, premiered at the Tribeca Festival in June and was available globally starting Thursday.

“Mary McGee’s groundbreaking achievements in off-road and motorcycle racing have left a lasting impact on generations of athletes,” her family wrote in a statement. “Her strength, grace, and optimism made her a beloved figure in motorsports and beyond. We are deeply saddened by her passing, but we take comfort knowing that her light continues to shine through everyone she touched.”

McGee’s accomplishments in racing were extraordinary. She became the first person—man or woman—to complete the daunting Baja 500 off-road race in Mexico solo in 1975. Her story inspired many, and her legacy as a motorsports pioneer continues to influence the industry.

Directed by Haley Watson, the documentary Motorcycle Mary was a tribute to McGee’s life and career. Two-time Oscar winner Ben Proudfoot also served as an executive producer on the film. “When I first learned about Mary’s story in early 2022, I was in awe of her incredible achievements and the remarkable journey she had in the world of motorsports,” Watson shared. “I am saddened by her passing, but grateful to have been able to tell her story.”

Following the news of McGee’s death, Lewis Hamilton expressed his condolences on social media. “I’m deeply saddened by the loss of Mary McGee, the first woman to road race motorcycles in the U.S. and the first person to solo the Baja 500,” Hamilton wrote. “Her legacy as a trailblazer in motorsports will live on, inspiring countless others.”

Born in Juneau, Alaska, during World War II, McGee was raised in Iowa by her grandparents. She followed in her older brother’s footsteps, who was a race car driver, and took up the sport despite it being almost unheard of for women at the time.

Her talent quickly caught the attention of racing team owner Vasek Polak, who persuaded her to drive a Porsche Spyder, where she won races. Polak also encouraged McGee to try motorcycle racing, where she thrived, making history in the process.

Actor and racing enthusiast Steve McQueen played a key role in McGee’s decision to participate in the legendary Baja 500, solidifying her place in racing history.

McGee was the first woman to race motocross in the U.S., the first to compete internationally in the sport, and the first to receive sponsorships from major brands. Her influence on the motorsports world extended beyond her own career as she mentored other women entering the field.

In 2018, McGee was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, a recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the sport.

“Mary’s legacy is one of breaking barriers and inspiring future generations,” her family said. “Her achievements will be remembered not only in the world of motorsports but in the hearts of all those who knew and admired her.”

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