Motorsports is often seen as a sport fit for men, but Mary McGee took it upon herself to break this age-old barrier and idea. While the likes of Danica Patrick and Hailie Deegan have paved the way for women’s representation in auto racing, it was McGee who laid down the foundation for bringing about this change. And the world is certainly going to miss her energy and light as she completed her life race, passing away at the age of 87.

She was the first woman to compete in motorcycle road racing and motocross events in the United States. Her story was not just fuel to the young and up-coming female drivers but also for legends like Lewis Hamilton. The 7-time Formula 1 champion took to Instagram to pay tribute and respect McGee with a short video.

“I’m deeply saddened to hear that Mary McGee, the first woman to road race motorcycles in the U.S and the first person to solo the Baja 500 has passed on. My condolences to her family and everyone who she’s inspired. Her legacy will live on as a trailblazer in the world of Motorsports and beyond.” Hamilton wrote in the caption, along with a touching video from McGee’s life documentary.

Her story is a true testament to the sheer grit racers have. Born in Alaska during World War II, McGee and her brother arrived in Iowa. They lived with her grandparents when her brother decided to pursue racing. Mary McGee wasn’t far behind. She followed suit and began racing in a Porsche Spyder after being persuaded by Vasek Polak. It was Polak who later asked McGee to try her hand at motorcycles. Little did he know he would be part of one of America’s greatest motorsport legends.

McGee started competing at the Sports Car Club of America in 1957. It wasn’t just normal racing; she excelled and began racking up wins, which eventually caught the attention of the media. This adventure continued until the summer of 1964 when she focused on her motorcycling racing career. However, the big standout from her two-wheel racing stint is the triumph of the Baja 500 race, passing 17 two-man teams. It was on Hollywood star Steve McQueen’s insistence that she took part in the race.

Upon learning about Mary McGee’s death, fans also flocked to social media platforms to pay their respects. They also celebrated her inspirational journey that transcends all forms of motorsports.

Motorsports fans celebrate the life journey of Mary McGee after her death

Well, McGee is the first woman to step into what was often known as the men’s sport. While that list is indeed long, here are a few major milestones she achieved throughout her racing career. The first and only woman to ride the Baja 500 solo, the first woman to road race motorcycles in America, and an AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame inductee. Tipping a hat to her extensive list of accomplishments, this fan wrote, “May she rest in peace 🕊️🤍 what a legend!”

In a gesture of honoring the legendary racer, ESPN has curated a short documentary, “Motorcycle Mary,” that sheds light on McGee’s untold story. The 22-minute documentary is free to stream on YouTube and is directed by Haley Watson. F1 star Lewis Hamilton has served as an executive producer, and this gesture was certainly appreciated by the race fans. “I’m so glad she was able to tell her own story and get her flowers. Thank you for honouring a legend and her legend.” 

“Can I get a hug?” was Hamilton’s reaction after meeting McGee in person. The two met at the Montreal Grand Prix, and McGee cheered him on throughout the race. She even thanked the Mercedes star for being the producer of her documentary film. This sort of connection is rare, and from their meeting, it was evident that the two shared immense respect for each other. And this wholesome tribute by Lewis after her passing has hit home for the fans, “Beautiful words from one legend to another. May she rest in peace. Bless you both.💜💜”

It is indeed rare to see a woman race car driver’s story being celebrated and showcased in front of the whole world. But Lewis Hamilton, being the class act that he is, was glad to be a part of McGee’s story. And the fans are glad that they will be able to know about the legends of McGee and the impact she had on the motorsports world. “Thank you, Lewis, for supporting a documentary on this amazing woman. I’m so glad she could be honored for her legacy and that you two could meet. Rest in peace, Mary 🤍🕊️”

Racing transcends all boundaries, and Mary McGee’s racing journey has been inspirational to a lot of young drivers. And if we are to go by the initial response to the ESPN documentary, it seems like it’s already working on its magic. The story touched this young race fan, and she is now looking to follow McGee’s path to become a racer. “Rest peacefully, Mary. You are a legend and I’m incredibly inspired by your journey. 🏍️”

Mary McGee has certainly left her mark on the motorsports world, and we at EssentiallySports also extend our condolences and prayers to McGee’s near and dear ones.