Disney has announced that ESPN has acquired the 22-minute documentary short film, “Motorcycle Mary”, which will be released as part of ESPN Films’ 30 for 30 Shorts catalogue.

The film 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.

This film was directed by Haley Watson (in her directorial debut), produced by Rachel Greenwald, and executive produced by two-time Oscar winner Ben Proudfoot and seven-time Formula One World Champion Lewis Hamilton.  It is a production of Breakwater Studios.

Marsha Cooke, Vice President and Executive Producer of ESPN Films said in a statement:

“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.  ‘MOTORCYCLE MARY’ captures her indomitable spirit and the trailblazing legacy she leaves behind in the world of motorsports, and we’re looking forward to bringing it to ESPN audiences soon.”

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 gruelling Baja 500 on a motorcycle.

 “Motorcycle Mary” will premiere on the big screen at the 2024 Tribeca Festival in New York where it will make its world premiere in the “Shorts: Personal Best” program on Friday, 7th June 2024 (with additional screenings June 13 and 15).

The short will premiere on ESPN at a later date, which will also mean it will be available on ESPN+ and ESPN+ On Hulu, in addition to ESPN On Disney+, later this year.

Are you looking forward to watching “Motorcycle Mary”?  Let me know on social media!

Roger Palmer

Roger has been a Disney fan since he was a kid and this interest has grown over the years. He has visited Disney Parks around the globe and has a vast collection of Disney movies and collectibles. He is the owner of What's On Disney Plus & DisKingdom. Email: Roger@WhatsOnDisneyPlus.com Twitter: Twitter.com/RogPalmerUK Facebook: Facebook.com/rogpalmeruk

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