Mary Mcgee

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  Mary McGee was a pioneering figure in motorsports who broke barriers as the first woman to compete in motorcycle road racing and motocross in the United States, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire female racers today.

  EARLY YEARS

  Born in 1936 in Juneau, Alaska, Mary’s early life was marked by significant changes during World War II. She moved to Iowa to live with her grandparents and older brother Jim while her mother, a nurse, remained in Alaska. After her father left the family shortly after her birth, Jim became an important influence, introducing her to racing. Her husband Don McGee, a racing mechanic, later supported her transition from cars to motorcycles.

  EARLY SUCCESS

  Mary began her racing career in December 1957 with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), driving a Mercedes 300SL Gullwing. Her natural talent quickly became evident as she competed in various events, driving prestigious cars including the Ferrari Testa Rossa and Porsche Spyder. In 1960, encouraged by Steve McQueen, she transitioned to motorcycle racing, becoming the first woman to compete with the American Federation of Motorcyclists. By 1962, her consistent performances earned her the AFM number plate #20, marking her as a respected competitor in the male-dominated sport.

  NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

  • 1960: First woman to compete in motorcycle road racing sanctioned by the American Federation of Motorcyclists (AFM).
  • 1963: First woman to race motocross and to enter an AMA District 37 Enduro held in Jawbone Canyon, California.
  • 1967: First woman to finish the Baja 1000, a grueling 1000-mile off-road race in the Baja California Peninsula.
  • 1975: First person to finish the Baja 500 solo, also known as “IronMan style,” finishing 17th overall with a 250cc Husqvarna.
  • 2018: Inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, recognizing her pioneering spirit and contributions to breaking down barriers for women in motorsports.

  REPUTATION

  McGee established herself as a trailblazing figure who defied gender norms in the male-dominated world of motorsports. Her extraordinary endurance and mental toughness were showcased in achievements like completing the Baja 500 solo. Recognition came in the form of induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 2018 and being named an FIM Legend. Her legacy continues to inspire young female racers, with her reputation built on determination, skill, and groundbreaking achievements that opened doors for women in motorcycle racing.

  FUTURE GOALS/PLANS

  References:

  Motorsports Hall of Fame: Mary McGee
  Why You Should Know Motorcycle Mary McGee
  Passings: Motorcycle Mary McGee
  Remembering Mary McGee: Trailblazer in Motorcycling and Motorsports
  Mary McGee: A Trailblazer in Motorsports
  Mary McGee – Wikipedia