The Vintagent Selects: A collection of our favorite films by artists around the world.
Motorcycle Mary (2024)
Run Time: 22:00
Producer: Rachel Greenwald, Breakwater Studios
Director: Haley Watson
Editor: Cody Wilson
Key Cast: Mary McGee
FILM MAKERS
In June we shared the trailer for the 22-minute documentary short ‘Motorcycle Mary’ as it was premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival. The film was directed by Haley Watson and was acquired by ESPN as part of their 30 for 30 Shorts catalog. Mary McGee died on November 27, 2024 at the age of 87. The film was released online a day later. Her legacy will not be forgotten.
SUMMARY
Drinks gas. Spits nails.
Motorcycle Mary’ tells the untold story of legendary motorsports pioneer Mary McGee a.k.a. “Motorcycle Mary”, whose racing career spanned thirty years and saw her shatter gender norms while mastering multiple racing disciplines. The documentary short will feature stunning never-before-seen archival footage and photographs from McGee’s life.
In the 1950s, Mary McGee found her sense of freedom when she became the first American woman to race motorcycles. Mary’s pioneering journey of conquering sexism and her own fears paved the way for the next chapter in motorsports. The untold story of legendary motorsports pioneer Mary McGee a.k.a. MOTORCYCLE MARY whose racing career spanned thirty years and saw Mary shatter gender norms while mastering multiple racing disciplines. Born in Alaska on the eve of World War II, McGee’s early life is riddled with fear but, with her older brother Jim’s guidance, she conquers her apprehensive nature and discovers the art of composure—a skill that serves her to take on the racetrack. Following in her brother’s footsteps, her remarkable racing odyssey begins in the world of cars, where she outshines her male competitors, only to later discover her greatest sense of freedom racing motorcycles. She was the first woman to race motorcycles in the United States. Confronted by sexism and personal tragedy, Mary perseveres, pushing herself to greater and greater heights—culminating in her most hair-raising challenge: Becoming the first person ever to solo the grueling Baja 500 on a motorcycle.
RELATED MEDIA
Yup … its finally available both on the dreaded YouSteal and ESPN ( 30 + short )
Well worth the 22:00 minutes of time to watch .
All misogynists need not apply
My sole critique … its too damn short .. which in reality … is a compliment
Heartbreak time .
Dear Mary’s doc finally hits the TV and small screen .. and she passes away ( sigh … Nov 30th ) …. at the grand old age of 90 .
We should all live so long and contribute so much ..
Ride on Mary … as I’m sure you will be !
😎
Correction and apologies .. she was 87 .
You’re right GuitarSlinger. What a force she was. “A life well lived”.
Love the photo of Mary on the Honda CB92 Benly – my first bike!