Mary McGee, a female pioneer in the world of motor racing, died at the age of 87 on Wednesday.
McGee, who starred in Formula One star Lewis Hamilton’s short film ‘Motorcyle Mary’ in June, passed away in Gardernville, Nevada, her family confirmed. The cause of death was not disclosed.
The racing legend was the first woman to race the Baja 1000, and the only woman to finish the Baja 500 solo.
‘Mary embodied resilience, grace, and optimism,’ McGee’s family wrote on Facebook. ‘She was a historic athlete and a 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 are comforted knowing that her light will continue to shine in everyone she touched.
‘We would like to take a moment to extend a thank you to the healthcare providers, caregivers, friends, and family members that made Mary’s transition peaceful. She particularly enjoyed the last few months meeting those who learned her story through the documentary, Motorcycle Mary.’
Mary McGee, a female pioneer in the world of motor racing, died at the age of 87 on Wednesday
McGee endeared herself to fans of Formula One just earlier this year when she guest starred on one of Sky Sports presenter Martin Brundle’s infamous grid walks.
The heartwarming interview with the former F1 driver at the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal won over the hearts of new generations of racing fans.
‘I first started racing cars in 1957 and then I switched to motorcycles in 1960 and I quit in 2012,’ she told Brundle, who knelt down to ask her if it was her first experience of an F1 grid, to which she replied: ‘I love Formula 1 racing. I was at Riverside [in California] many years ago for the first F1 race, met [double champion] Jimmy Clark for God’s sake!’
More to follow.
