Motorsports Pioneer Mary McGee, First Woman to Solo Baja 500, Passes Away at 87

Mary McGee, a trailblazing figure in off-road and motorcycle racing, has passed away at the age of 87. Her family confirmed her death on Wednesday, just one day before the release of the short documentary Motorcycle Mary, which chronicles her groundbreaking career. McGee died at her home in Nevada.

Her family described her as a historic athlete and a motorsports pioneer whose legacy will inspire future generations of racers. “Mary embodied resilience, grace, and optimism,” they said in a statement. “She made time to brighten the lives of those around her and will continue to shine in everyone she touched.”

McGee’s racing career was nothing short of extraordinary. In 1975, she became the first person—male or female—to complete the Baja 500 off-road race solo. Her accomplishments in the sport were groundbreaking, and she was a key figure in breaking gender barriers in motorsports.

The documentary Motorcycle Mary, produced by seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton, premiered at the Tribeca Festival in June and was released globally on ESPN’s YouTube channel this week. The film highlights McGee’s courage, determination, and pioneering spirit in a male-dominated sport.

Born in Juneau, Alaska, during World War II, McGee’s journey into racing began when her older brother encouraged her to join the sport. She went on to make history as the first woman to race motocross in the U.S., compete internationally in motocross, and receive sponsorships from major brands. She was also known for her mentorship of other women in racing.

In 2018, McGee was inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, recognizing her contributions to the sport. Steve McQueen, the legendary actor and racing enthusiast, convinced McGee to take on the Baja 500, cementing her status as a motorsport legend.

Tributes poured in following her death, including from Hamilton, who wrote on Instagram: “Her legacy will live on as a trailblazer in the world of motorsports and beyond.” McGee’s influence in motorsports, especially among women, will continue to inspire for generations to come.