Mary McGee, the auto racing legend featured in the documentary Motorcyle Mary, died Wednesday in Gardnerville, Nevada, according to her family. She was 87 years old.
“Mary embodied resilience, grace and optimism,” the McGee family wrote on Facebook. The publication did not reveal the cause of death. “She was a historic athlete and motorsports pioneer who embraced life's challenges, cared deeply for others, and made time to brighten the lives of those around her. While we are deeply saddened by this loss, we take comfort in knowing that her light will continue to shine in everyone she touched.”
Mary's motorcyclewhich had its world premiere at the Tribeca Festival in June, documents McGee's victories first in auto racing and then in motorcycle racing on track and open country. She became the first person – man or woman – to solo complete the grueling Baja 500 off-road race in Mexico. ESPN 30 for 30, directed by Haley Watson and executive produced by Formula 1 champion and two-time Academy Award winner Lewis Hamilton, will premiere Thursday on ESPN's YouTube channel.
Mary McGee in 1961
Courtesy of the family of Mary McGee
“Mary McGee’s story is not only a testament to her incredible skills and perseverance but is also an inspiration to all who dare to break barriers,” noted Marsha Cook, vice president and executive producer of ESPN Films, shortly before the film’s Tribeca premiere. “Mary's motorcycle It embodies her indomitable spirit and the pioneering legacy she leaves behind in the world of motorsport.
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Mary Bernice McGee (née Connor) was born in Juneau, Alaska on December 12, 1936. During World War II, she and her older brother Jim Connor were sent to Iowa to live with their grandparents. Jim later became a race car driver and encouraged his sister to take up the sport, even though it was almost unprecedented for a woman to compete in that arena. Race team owner Vasek Polak urged McGee to get behind the wheel of one of his Porsche Spyders, which he drove to checkered flags in the 1960s. Pollack later convinced her to try motorcycle racing, which she also excelled at. It was actor and racing fan Steve McQueen who convinced McGee to participate in motorcycle events, including the Baja 500.
Mary McGee competing in the 1975 Baja 500
Courtesy of the family of Mary McGee
“Racing was never just about competition for me, it was about freedom and courage and pushing myself beyond the limits,” McGee said during the release of the documentary about her. “I'm proud to share my journey on Mary's motorcycle. I hope my story will inspire women and show that with determination, anyone can make their own way, no matter the odds.
Mary McGee, known as “Motorcycle Mary”
ESPN Films / Breakwater Studios
McGee was in her 70s when she last raced and in 2018 earned induction into the AMA Motorcycling Hall of Fame.
“We would like to take a moment to thank the health care providers, caregivers, friends and family members who made Mary's transition peaceful,” her family wrote on Facebook. “I have particularly enjoyed the past few months meeting those who knew her story through the documentary, Mary's motorcycle. We welcome you to share memories here so that Mary's great spirit will continue to resonate as we celebrate the extraordinary life she lived.
