Lewis Hamilton Honors Motorsport Pioneer Mary McGee After Her Passing at 87
The motorsport world mourns the loss of Mary McGee, a trailblazing figure and one of the first women to break barriers in motorcycle and car racing, who passed away at the age of 87. Among the many tributes flooding in, Formula 1 superstar Lewis Hamilton delivered a heartfelt homage, recognizing McGee’s invaluable contributions to motorsport and her enduring legacy.
Mary McGee: A Pioneer of Motorsport
Born in 1936, Mary McGee was an undeniable force in motorsport during a time when women were rarely seen on the racing circuit. She began her career in the 1950s, initially navigating the world of sports car racing before shifting gears to motorcycle competitions in the 1960s. McGee shattered stereotypes with her exceptional skills, becoming the first woman to earn an American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) professional racing license.
Her versatility was legendary. McGee competed in sports cars, motorcycles, and desert racing, leaving an indelible mark in every discipline she embraced. Her entry into off-road motorcycle racing was inspired by none other than the legendary Steve McQueen, who urged her to explore the thrilling world of motocross. From there, she made history, proving she could hold her own against the toughest competitors in the sport.
Lewis Hamilton’s Tribute
Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in motorsport, was among the first to honor McGee’s legacy. Hamilton took to social media to express his admiration for the late pioneer, calling her a “true trailblazer who paved the way for so many.”
“Mary McGee wasn’t just a racer; she was a force of nature. She broke barriers, defied conventions, and inspired generations to dream big,” Hamilton wrote. “Her courage and determination to compete in a male-dominated sport during such a challenging era is a testament to her extraordinary character. Rest in peace, Mary. Your legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
Hamilton’s tribute underscores the profound respect McGee commanded across generations of racers, from her contemporaries to modern icons of the sport.
Breaking Barriers and Building a Legacy
McGee’s career was characterized not only by her skill on the track but also by her resilience in the face of adversity. Competing in a male-dominated environment presented its challenges, but McGee met them with determination and grace.
“People told me I didn’t belong,” McGee recalled in a 2019 interview. “But I didn’t care. I just wanted to race. The track didn’t care if I was a man or a woman—it only cared if I was fast.”
Her achievements opened doors for future generations of female racers, showing that passion and skill know no gender. Today, women competing in motorsport—whether in Formula 1, MotoGP, or rally racing—owe a debt of gratitude to trailblazers like McGee.
Tributes from Across the Motorsport Community
Hamilton’s tribute was part of a wave of condolences and reflections from the motorsport community. Organizations such as the AMA, the FIM, and racing teams worldwide released statements commemorating McGee’s life and achievements.
“Mary McGee was a pioneer, a competitor, and an inspiration,” said the AMA in its official statement. “Her contributions to motorcycling and motorsport history will never be forgotten.”
Veteran racer and commentator Paul Carruthers described McGee as “a fearless competitor who lived life on her terms,” while motorcycle legend Malcolm Smith hailed her as “a friend and an icon.”
Fans of motorsport also shared their memories and reflections, with many highlighting how McGee’s journey inspired them to pursue their passions regardless of societal expectations.
A Life Beyond Racing
Though racing was her first love, McGee’s life was marked by her many passions. After retiring from competitive motorsport, she remained deeply involved in the community, mentoring young racers and sharing her experiences through speaking engagements and interviews. She was also an advocate for road safety and a champion of diversity in motorsport.
McGee’s adventurous spirit extended beyond the track. Known for her love of travel and storytelling, she often recounted her racing adventures, captivating audiences with tales of her triumphs and challenges.
In her later years, McGee became a vocal proponent of preserving motorsport history, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the contributions of women and other underrepresented groups in the sport.
The End of an Era
Mary McGee’s passing marks the end of an era, but her influence will endure. For those who knew her personally or admired her from afar, she represented the very best of what motorsport could be—a realm of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.
“Mary’s legacy isn’t just about racing,” said Hamilton in his tribute. “It’s about breaking barriers, living authentically, and inspiring others to follow their dreams.”
Inspiring Future Generations
As motorsport evolves, McGee’s story serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work still to be done. The increasing presence of women in motorsport—on and off the track—owes much to pioneers like her. From Formula 1 drivers like Jamie Chadwick to MotoGP stars like Ana Carrasco, McGee’s legacy lives on in every woman who takes to the track.
Mary McGee leaves behind a legacy of courage, determination, and boundless enthusiasm for the sport she loved. As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, her influence on motorsport remains as powerful as ever.
Her passing is a loss not just for racing but for anyone who believes in the power of breaking barriers and defying expectations. While the motorsport world bids farewell to a true icon, her story will continue to inspire generations to come.
Leave a Reply