Mary McGee, an icon in the motorsports world, has passed away at the age of 87. A trailblazer in both auto and motorcycle racing, McGee made history with her groundbreaking feats on the track, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Best known for becoming the first person to complete the Baja 500 solo, her legacy lives on not only in the record books but also in the hearts of those who followed her extraordinary journey. Her passing, which occurred on Wednesday in Gardnerville, Nevada, is a profound loss for the motorsports community and the countless fans she inspired over her lifetime.
As the star of the Oscar-contending documentary Motorcycle Mary, McGee’s life and legacy were captured in a powerful film that premiered at the Tribeca Festival in June. Directed by Haley Watson, the film tells the remarkable story of McGee’s rise through the ranks of racing, breaking barriers for women in a sport where such milestones were rare. A fierce competitor and a pioneer, Mary McGee’s incredible journey was not just about racing—it was about resilience, determination, and an unwavering spirit to defy expectations.
In this article, we will look back on McGee’s trailblazing career, her influence on the world of motorsports, and the inspiring story of a woman who truly carved her own path against all odds.
The Life of a Motorsports Pioneer
Born Mary Bernice Connor in Juneau, Alaska, on December 12, 1936, McGee’s early life was marked by the upheaval of World War II. Along with her older brother Jim, she was sent to Iowa to live with their grandparents during the war. Jim would go on to become a race car driver, and his influence would prove crucial in Mary’s eventual path to motorsports.
Although motorsports were traditionally dominated by men, Jim encouraged his younger sister to join the world of racing, which, at the time, was nearly unprecedented for a woman. Racing team owner Vasek Polak would later become one of McGee’s earliest supporters, urging her to try driving a Porsche Spyder—a car she drove to several victories in the 1960s. However, McGee’s talents extended beyond racing cars. She soon ventured into motorcycle racing, where she would also become a dominant force.
Breaking Barriers in Racing
McGee’s journey through the motorsports world was unconventional for her time. Despite the challenges women faced in a male-dominated sport, she was determined to break barriers and push the limits of what was possible.
Her significant achievements included becoming the first person—man or woman—to solo the grueling Baja 500 off-road race in Mexico. This race, known for its intense conditions and difficulty, is a grueling test of endurance and skill. McGee’s ability to conquer this race solo not only cemented her place in motorsports history but also made her a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and breaking through societal boundaries.
In Motorcycle Mary, the documentary about her life, McGee shared the philosophy that guided her throughout her career: “Racing was never just about competition for me—it was about freedom, courage, and pushing myself beyond limits.” It was this mindset that enabled McGee to succeed where many others would have faltered, proving time and again that determination could overcome any challenge.
A Documentary That Tells Her Story
As McGee’s career continued, she became a symbol of empowerment for women in motorsports, and her story was one that deserved to be told. The documentary Motorcycle Mary, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in June 2023, was a profound celebration of her accomplishments. Directed by Haley Watson, the film not only showcased McGee’s achievements but also offered a glimpse into her personality, highlighting her resilience, optimism, and generosity of spirit.
The documentary is executive-produced by none other than Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton and two-time Oscar winner Ben Proudfoot. It is an inspiring account of how Mary McGee faced adversity head-on and became a trailblazer in motorsports, an achievement that was recognized on a global scale. Motorcycle Mary brings McGee’s story to life, showing audiences that success is about more than just winning—it’s about creating a legacy of empowerment and pushing boundaries for those who come after you.
Marsha Cooke, Vice President and Executive Producer of ESPN Films, reflected on the importance of the documentary in a statement about its Tribeca premiere: “Mary McGee’s story is not only a testament to her incredible skills and perseverance but also an inspiration to all who dare to break barriers.”
For McGee, the film was an opportunity to share her journey with the world, and she expressed her hope that her story would inspire other women to pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional the path may be. “I hope my story inspires women and shows that with determination, anyone can carve their own path, no matter the odds.”
A Life Well Lived
Though McGee slowed down in her later years, her impact on the world of motorsports never wavered. In 2018, she was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, a recognition of her outstanding contributions to the sport. By the time of her passing, McGee had earned a place in history as one of the most influential figures in the world of motorsports.
In her final years, McGee enjoyed sharing her story with those who had discovered her through the documentary. Her family, in a heartfelt tribute following her passing, expressed their gratitude to those who helped make her transition peaceful. They wrote: “We would like to take a moment to extend a thank you to the healthcare providers, caregivers, friends, and family members that made Mary’s transition peaceful. She particularly enjoyed the last few months meeting those who learned her story through the documentary.”
Mary McGee’s life was defined by her courage to challenge the limits, her deep care for others, and her unwavering belief that anyone could rise to greatness if they were willing to put in the work. She showed the world that true greatness lies not just in victory but in the resilience and spirit one displays in the face of adversity.
Remembering Mary McGee
Mary McGee’s passing marks the end of an era in motorsports, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Whether through her historic Baja 500 solo finish, her pioneering spirit in male-dominated racing spaces, or the inspiring story shared in Motorcycle Mary, McGee’s story is one of defying expectations, breaking down barriers, and overcoming immense challenges.
Her life reminds us all of the power of resilience, the importance of perseverance, and the belief that anyone, regardless of gender or circumstance, can achieve greatness.
To honor her memory, the world will continue to celebrate her extraordinary life and accomplishments, sharing her story with those who may not yet know of the amazing woman who forever changed the world of motorsports.
Conclusion:
Mary McGee’s death may mark the end of her time on Earth, but her legacy will remain forever etched in the world of motorsports and beyond. Through documentaries like Motorcycle Mary and the incredible feats she achieved in her life, McGee showed that nothing is impossible with the right mindset and determination. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for future generations of women who dare to follow their dreams, no matter how difficult the road may be.
She was not just a motorsports legend; she was an inspiration to all who knew her and those who learned her story. May her memory live on in every track, race, and trail where the spirit of a true pioneer continues to inspire.
