Mary McGee Dies: Motorsports Legend And Star Of Oscar-Contending Documentary ‘Motorcycle Mary’ Was 87

deadline.com:

Mary McGee, the motor racing legend profiled in the Oscar-contending documentary Motorcyle Mary, died Wednesday in Gardnerville, Nev., according to her family.

She was 87. “Mary embodied resilience, grace, and optimism,” McGee’s family wrote on Facebook. The post did disclose a cause of death. “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.” Motorcycle Mary, which held its world premiere at the Tribeca Festival in June, documents McGee’s triumphs first in auto racing and later in motorcycle racing on track and the open country.

She became the first person – man or woman – to complete solo the grueling Baja 500 off-road race in Mexico. The ESPN 30 for 30 film, directed by Haley Watson and executive produced by Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton and two-time Oscar winner Ben Proudfoot, will debut Thursday on ESPN’s YouTube channel. “Mary McGee’s story is not only a testament to her incredible skills and perseverance but also an inspiration to all who dare to break barriers,” observed Marsha Cooke, vice president and executive producer of ESPN Films, shortly before the film’s Tribeca premiere. “Motorcycle Mary captures her indomitable spirit and the trailblazing legacy she leaves behind in the world of motorsports.” DEADLINE RELATED VIDEO: Mary Bernice McGee (née Connor) was born in Juneau Alaska on December 12, 1936.