Mary McGee, a groundbreaking figure in the world of motorsports, passed away on 27 November 2024, at the age of 87 in Gardnerville, Nevada. Known for her pioneering achievements and dedication to empowering others, Mary’s legacy continues to inspire riders worldwide.
Mary’s legacy is one of courage, resilience, and groundbreaking accomplishments. Born in 1936, she began her career in motorsports racing sports cars in the early 1960s. Her journey into motorcycling was encouraged by the legendary Steve McQueen, who recognised her talent and urged her to try her hand at off-road racing.
In 1960, Mary became the first woman to compete in a U.S. motorcycle road race sanctioned by the FIM — a moment that marked the beginning of her extraordinary motorcycling career. She raced motorcycles from 1960 to 1963.
In 1963, at a New Year’s Eve party attended by Hollywood stars who raced both cars and motorcycles, McGee’s friend, actor Steve McQueen, encouraged her to try desert racing. He famously told her, “McGee, you’ve got to get off that pansy road-racing bike and come out to the desert.” Car racer and stuntperson Bobby Harris became her mentor, and a few months later, she participated in her first desert race, an AMA District 37 Enduro in Jawbone Canyon, California. McGee rode alongside Bob Drake, Bobby Harris, and Al Tinker. While the men raced 650cc Triumphs, Mary tackled the course on a 1962 CL72 250cc Honda Scrambler. Although they assured her it would be easy, she found the event challenging, facing exhaustion and braving snow on the course. This tough initiation proved to be her rite of passage into off-road racing.
Transitioning from road racing to desert challenges, Mary went on to achieve a historic milestone in 1975, becoming the first person to solo the gruelling Baja 500. Riding her 250 Husqvarna motorcycle, she completed the race despite incredible challenges, cementing her place in motorsports history.
Mary McGee was one of the most pioneering women in motorsports history. She not only broke barriers in racing but also dedicated herself to mentoring and empowering other women in the sport, leaving a legacy of inspiration and support for future generations.
Mary’s passion extended beyond racing. She championed the inclusion of women in motorsports and supported initiatives like International Female Ride Day, which resonated deeply with her values. Her indomitable spirit, paired with her motto, “Say yes, then figure out what you agreed to,” inspired countless individuals to push boundaries and embrace adventure. *Source Wikipedia
In recognition of her achievements, Mary was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2018, a fitting tribute to her trailblazing career. Her life and accomplishments were celebrated in Motorcycle Mary, a documentary that captures her essence and unrelenting drive. The 21-minute film — produced by Rachel Greenwald and Haley Watson and directed by Watson — made its premiere at the 2024 Tribeca Festival in June.
As we say goodbye to Mary McGee, we honour her legacy not only as a competitor but as a mentor, woman rider advocate, and role model. Her impact on motorsports and her dedication to breaking barriers will continue to inspire riders for generations to come.
Ride in peace, Mary. Your memory will live on, cherished on the roads and trails you loved so deeply.
*Article feature thumbnail pic via M.McGee Facebook: Al Rogers Ridge Mohave Desert 1964 250 Honda
