Your cart is empty
Looks like you haven't added anything to your cart yet
About Patti McGee - Pro Skateboarder Profile, Biography and History
Patti McGee (August 23, 1945 – October 16, 2024) was a pioneering American professional skateboarder, recognized as the first woman pro skateboarder and the first women's champion in the sport.
Early Life
Patti McGee was born in Fort Lewis, Washington, and grew up in San Diego, California. She began surfing at the age of 12 but turned to skateboarding as a way to enjoy the thrill of riding when the surf was poor. Her brother crafted her first skateboard by attaching wheels from roller skates to a wooden board in a shop project. By 1962, she was actively skateboarding and began competing shortly afterward.
Professional Career
McGee's breakthrough came in 1964 when she made headlines by winning the women's division at the first National Skateboard Championships held in Santa Monica, California. That same year, she set a world record for speed, reaching 47 mph during Dick Clark's World Teen Fair. Her unique skills and signature stunts, such as an impressive handstand, propelled her into the spotlight.
In 1965, she turned professional at just 19 and was signed by Hobie/Vita-Pakt, earning $250 a month plus expenses. This opportunity allowed her to perform demonstrations across the country and appear on various TV shows, including The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and What’s My Line? She became well-known for her contributions to skateboarding, including being featured on the cover of LIFE magazine in May 1965, which further solidified her status as a sports icon.
Legacy and Recognition
McGee was a formidable advocate for women in skateboarding, breaking barriers in a predominantly male sport. In 2010, she became the first woman inducted into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame, recognizing her significant contributions to the sport. Throughout her life, Patti was involved in various endeavors, including starting The Original Betty Skateboard Company with her daughter, Hailey Villa, to promote skateboarding among women.
Personal Life and Death
Later in life, McGee continued to inspire new generations of skateboarders. She passed away on October 16, 2024, at her home in Brea, California, due to complications from a stroke. Her legacy as a trailblazer in skateboarding and her efforts to include women in the sport remain influential to this day
Patti McGee will be remembered not only for her exceptional skills and accomplishments but also for her role as a pioneer for female skateboarders, paving the way for future generations.
PATTI McGEE Skateboard Champion Tv 1965
Patti McGee 1965 National Skateboard champion TV commercial
Patti McGee Skateboarding Hall of Fame intro
Patti McGee, first women’s pro skateboarder, dies at 79
Patti McGee - 'Life Betty' Signature Fingerboard
100% Official/Genuine Skateboard Stickers!
101 - Ace Trucks - Alien Workshop - Almost - Andale - Antihero - Birdhouse - Blind - Bones Bearings - Bones Wheels - Chocolate - Creature - DC Shoe Co. - DGK - Doomsayers - Darkroom - Enjoi - Girl - Grizzly - Independent - Krooked - Lakai - Magenta - New Deal - OJ Wheels - Paisley Skates - Polar - Ripndip - Royal Trucks - Santa Cruz - Sour Solution - Spitfire - StrangeLove - Thank You - Theories of Atlantis - Thrasher - Welcome - WKND - Zoo York
Daily Skate Clips - Pro Skater Profiles - Skate Brand Profiles
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.