A Sunny Send-Off
The Nevada sun lit up the Carson Valley, Nevada, on Saturday, August 16, 2025 casting warmth on a gathering that was anything but ordinary. Family and friends came together at Mary McGee’s family home in Gardnerville to celebrate the life of the remarkable woman affectionately known as “Motorcycle Mary.” It was a heartfelt goodbye—and a joyful tribute—to a legend whose legacy reaches far beyond the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Mary McGee: The Woman. The Legend.
Mary’s accomplishments are more than impressive—they are groundbreaking. She was the first woman licensed to road race and to race motocross in the United States, and the first woman to compete in a FIM-sanctioned (International Motorcycling Federation) road race back in 1960. In 1975, she became the first person—man or woman—to solo the grueling Baja 500. These are not just accolades. They are the marks of a true pioneer.
Her recognition matches her accomplishments. In 2012, Mary was honored as an FIM Woman Legend at the FIM Gala in Monte Carlo. In 2018, she was inducted into the AMA Hall of Fame. And in 2023, she took her place in the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame. Chris Sunderland said calling her a legend was a “brutal understatement,” and anyone who knew Mary would agree.
A Hometown Tribute
The celebration took place in Gardnerville, a quiet Nevada town nestled against the Sierra Nevadas. With farmland stretching across the Carson Valley and horses grazing in nearby paddocks, the peaceful setting felt just right. Mary had lived all over the country—from Alaska to California, Iowa to Maine—but on this day, friends from all corners gathered in this one small town to remember her.
Her sweet dog, Katie, weaved through the crowd, collecting gentle pats. Inside, Mary’s riding memorabilia was on display: trophies, posters, well-worn helmets, and photo albums full of dusty tracks and smiling faces. Her life, both on and off the bike, was laid out for all to see.
Stories That Made Us Laugh—and Cry
One by one, Mary’s family and friends stood up to speak. Some told stories that sparked laughter. Others brought tears. Each memory added a new thread to the rich fabric of Mary’s life.
There were tales of her many adventures—owning a bar in California, running an insurance agency, operating a motorcycle shop in Idaho. There were memories of Baja nights, desert races, and Mary peeking into garages just to see what wheels were inside. And there were quieter moments too. Of her generosity. Her mentorship. Her fierce belief in helping others go faster and ride safer.
Mary McGee: Inspiring Riders
The impact Mary had on other riders—especially women—was clear in every story. Debbie Matthews shared her long friendship with Mary, starting in 1975. Last year, Mary traveled to Ohio to personally induct Debbie into the AMA Hall of Fame. That meant everything.
After that initial meeting, Tigra invited Mary to be the keynote speaker and lead the motorcycle parade at the conference. She even tracked down a Husqvarna for Mary to ride. That moment introduced Mary McGee’s story and magic to a whole new generation of riders.
Tiffany Knudsen shared stories from the 2016 Vintage Off-road Nationals, where Mary spent time with Tiffany’s family. She also created Mary’s first Wikipedia page, giving her the digital spotlight she deserved. Amanda Knapp spoke of receiving kind words from Mary during a hard time in her family’s life. Ruth Belcher, founder of Flock to the Rock, remembers Mary’s powerful presence at the Pacific Northwest women’s ride, and her dream of taking Mary to Bike Week in India.
Ride 4 Mary: A Global Tribute
Mary McGee’s memory is now sparking a global movement. Ruth Belcher rode across the country to attend the Women’s International Motorcycle Association (WIMA) 2025 Rally in Poland, Maine, dedicating the ride to Mary. This personal gesture has grown into Ride 4 Mary, a worldwide call for motorcyclists to ride and post in Mary's honor.
Riders—men and women—from anywhere are invited to share stories online. Whether you met Mary in person, watched the Motorcycle Mary documentary, or were simply inspired by her story, your ride can be part of her legacy. Supporters can even get Ride 4 Mary merchandise in the WRN store.
Mary McGee’s Spirit Lives On
In late November, just after Mary’s passing, ESPN aired Motorcycle Mary, the documentary about her life and racing career. The film, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, captures her warmth, humor, and unshakable spirit. Her radiant smile fills the screen, pulling you into her stories like she’s sitting beside you.
Mary loved polka dots and the color pink. She carried handkerchiefs and wore scarves. She adored dogs. She was bold, joyful, and endlessly curious. She took chances. She said yes. She pushed herself past her comfort zone and encouraged others to do the same. Her motto—shared in the film—says it all: “Stay calm and twist the throttle.”
Final Thoughts
I wish I’d known her better. But standing among those who loved her most, I felt connected to something greater. I listened. I laughed. I learned. I witnessed the life of a woman who didn’t just ride—she led.
Mary McGee lived like she rode. Fast enough to cover a lot of ground. Bold enough to lead the way. Brave enough to lean into every turn.
And for that, we thank her.