GARDNERVILLE, Nev. – Mary McGee, a trailblazer in the world of motorsport and the focus of an Oscar-nominated documentary titled “Motorcycle Mary,” has passed away at the age of 87, as confirmed by her family.
“Mary McGee’s remarkable legacy in motorcycle and off-road racing has motivated countless athletes who followed her path,” her family stated in a heartfelt announcement.
The family did not disclose specific details surrounding her passing, other than to say she died at her home in Nevada on Wednesday, the day prior to the worldwide release of “Motorcycle Mary” on ESPN’s YouTube channel. The documentary, which became accessible for free on Thursday, was produced by renowned seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, while its debut initially took place at the Tribeca Film Festival in June.
“Mary demonstrated resilience, optimism, and grace throughout her life,” McGee’s family shared on social media. “As a groundbreaking athlete in motorsports, she faced life’s obstacles with determination, exuded compassion for others, and always made time to uplift those around her. While we mourn her passing, we find solace in knowing that her influence will persist in the lives she touched.”
McGee had a distinguished racing career that began in auto racing and transitioned into motorcycle racing. In 1975, she became the first person—regardless of gender—to conquer the challenging Baja 500 off-road race in Mexico as a solo competitor.
The documentary about her life was directed by Haley Watson, with two-time Academy Award winner Ben Proudfoot serving as an executive producer.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of Mary’s passing, yet I take comfort knowing she was surrounded by loved ones,” Watson expressed. “During my research in early 2022, I encountered Mary’s incredible story, which acted as a catalyst in unveiling her extraordinary contributions to motorsports and her remarkable life journey.”
Shortly after the announcement of her death, Hamilton shared a tribute on his Instagram, stating: “Learning about the passing of Mary McGee, the first woman to participate in road racing in the U.S. and the first individual to complete the Baja 500 solo, saddens me deeply. My heart goes out to her family and all those she has inspired. Her pioneering legacy in motorsports will endure.”
Born in Juneau, Alaska, during World War II, McGee and her older brother were sent to Iowa to live with their grandparents. Influenced by her brother, who became a race car driver, she ventured into the male-dominated world of racing, an unprecedented step for women at that time.
Encouraged by racing team owner Vasek Polak, McGee achieved victories while driving a Porsche Spyder before he prompted her to explore motorcycle racing, where she also thrived.
Iconic actor and racing aficionado Steve McQueen encouraged McGee to participate in the Baja 500, solidifying her status in the sport.
She became the first woman to race motocross in the U.S., the first to compete in an international motocross event, and the pioneer in securing sponsorship from major brands.
McGee is recognized as one of the most significant women in motorsports history, known for her role as a mentor to aspiring female racers.
In 2018, she was honored with an induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.