Honoring a Legend, Fueling a Legacy
This Ride Isn’t About the Miles—It’s About the Meaning
If you’ve spent time in the motorcycle world, you know the name Mary McGee. Racer, pioneer, absolute legend. Mary didn’t just ride motorcycles; she redefined what anyone, especially women, could do in motorsports.
This August, I’ll embark on an epic cross‑country ride from Marysville, Washington, to Poland, Maine. But this won’t be just another long‑distance ride – it’s a tribute. A ride with meaning. A ride for my friend and mentor, Mary McGee.
Ride for Mary is a new, global movement I’m proud to launch. I’ve gathered an amazing team of fellow lady riders who loved and adored Mary. It’s an open invitation for riders of all kinds to honor the life and legacy of a woman who helped shape our motorcycling world—and who personally inspired me to ride boldly, live fully, and never stop pushing boundaries.
Why We Ride for Mary
Mary McGee didn’t just ride motorcycles—she broke barriers at every turn:
- 1960 – First woman in the U.S. to earn a motorcycle‑racing license from the American Federation of Motorcyclists.
- 1960 – First woman to compete in an AMA‑sanctioned motorcycle race.
- 1968 – Tackled the legendary Baja 1000 on a borrowed 250 cc Husqvarna.
Mary’s talent was undeniable, but it was her spirit that left the biggest impression. She had a sense of humor as sharp as her racing skills, and she never let dirt, dust, or doubters slow her down. Her stories – from racing in hand‑me‑down gear to crashing spectacularly and laughing about it later, are the stuff of legend. She taught us something deeper: courage is built one mile at a time.
I had the honor of knowing Mary personally. We shared stories, laughter, and a deep love for motorcycling. Organizing this tribute ride feels like the most fitting way to honor everything she stood for.
My Route & Key Stops
| Date | Location | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 30 Aug 2025 | Marysville, WA | Depart on coast‑to‑coast run |
| 4 Sep 2025 | Wailin Wayne Weekend – Nelsonville, OH | Present #Ride4Mary; connect with ADV riders |
| 5 Sep 2025 | AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame – Pickerington, OH | Visit Mary’s Hall‑of‑Fame exhibit; Present #Ride4Mary; connect with local riders |
| 7 Sep 2025 | Poland, ME | Arrive at WIMA‑USA 75th Anniversary Rally |
How You Can Join the Ride
Ride for Mary is about more than one route, it’s about riding with purpose. Whether you’re logging cross‑country miles or taking a short spin through your town, your participation keeps Mary’s legacy alive.
Ways to get involved:
- Ride in Mary’s honor anytime August 30 – September 7, 2025.
- Download banners & graphics at Ride4Mary.com to add to your social feeds.
- Ride solo or organize a group – all are welcome, regardless of gender, bike style, or experience.
- Document your ride and tag it – #Ride4Mary | #BajaMary | #MotorcycleMary | #RideLikeMary
- Share your story – submit photos, videos, or reflections on the website or with Instagram @ride4mary.
A Historic Destination
Plan to conclude your tribute ride at the WIMA‑USA 75th Anniversary International Rally in Poland, Maine (September 7–13, 2025). Riders from nearly 20 countries will gather in the spirit of sisterhood and adventure – the very legacy Mary helped build.
Let’s Ride for Her—and for Ourselves
Over the years, I’ve met countless women who found the courage to ride because trailblazers like Mary cleared the way. I’ve been that woman, too, nervous, unsure, wondering if I was “enough.” Mary taught us that strength doesn’t come from having all the answers. It comes from showing up, replacing fear with love, and believing in yourself.
Ride for Mary is for every rider who’s ever been inspired by a story like hers. It’s for those who believe in honoring our history while carving out our own paths. I hope you’ll ride with me.
Learn More & Get Involved
Visit Ride4Mary.com to:
- 📥 Download promotional materials
- 📸 Submit your ride & photos
- 🏍️ Create your rider profile
- 📚 Learn more about Mary’s extraordinary life
Let’s make this the most meaningful ride of the year—and ensure that Mary’s story continues to inspire generations of riders to come.
FAQs About the Mary McGee Tribute Ride
Do I have to ride the whole way?
Not at all. Join for a day, a week, or even just a meet‑up. Every mile counts.
Is this ride women‑only?
Nope! Everyone is welcome. Men, women, and nonbinary riders are all invited to honor Mary’s legacy.
Personal Note
Mary was a dear friend and mentor. This memorial ride is my way to honor her. Let us know how you’re inspired by this story, and document your ride at Ride4Mary.com.
— Ruth Belcher
Founder, Global Moto Adventures | West Region Rep, WIMA‑USA
Quick Links
- Rally registration: www.wima-usa.com/2025-international-rally
- Movement HQ: Ride4Mary.com
- Follow Us At: @GlobalMotoADV | @ride4mary