Born: December 13, 1952 (Grants Pass, Oregon)
Debbie Lawler (born December 13, 1952) is an American motorcyclist who made history as the first female motorcyclist to beat Evel Knievel’s record. Lawler’s influential career began with her passion for motorcycles and her determination to excel in a male-dominated industry.
Born in Grants Pass, Oregon, Lawler was introduced to the world of motorcycles at a young age by her father, Ben Lawler, a veteran motorcycle racer. In 1962, Ben Lawler gifted his daughter a motorcycle for her 10th birthday, igniting her lifelong love for the sport. Lawler’s early experiences riding and performing stunts in local fairs and speedways laid the foundation for her future accomplishments.
Lawler’s breakthrough moment came in February 1974 when she surpassed Evel Knievel’s indoor record by jumping 101 feet. This remarkable feat marked a significant milestone in both Lawler’s career and women’s history. As the first woman to achieve such a record, Lawler shattered gender stereotypes and proved that women could excel in the world of extreme sports.
Sadly, Lawler’s triumph was followed by a crash landing the following month at Ontario Motor Speedway, where she attempted a daring jump of 146 feet. Despite the accident, Lawler displayed incredible resilience and determination throughout her career. It is worth noting that Lawler performed these high-risk stunts on a Suzuki TM250, showcasing her exceptional skills and fearlessness.
While Lawler’s professional accomplishments are well-known, her signature orange bra became an iconic symbol of her identity as a daredevil motorcyclist. She never jumped without it, and it became a recognizable part of her persona. Lawler’s dedication to her craft and the image she crafted for herself earned her nicknames such as America’s stunt sweetheart, flying angel, and the female Evel Knievel.
Lawler’s influence extended beyond the world of motorcycling. Her groundbreaking achievements inspired countless young women and challenged societal expectations. Her courage and ability to break through gender barriers left a lasting impact on women’s history, providing a powerful example of what women can achieve in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Even Evel Knievel recognized Lawler’s exceptional talent and presented her with a pink mink coat as a token of his respect after reclaiming his title. This gesture highlighted Lawler’s status as a trailblazer and solidified her place among the legends of extreme sports.
After her crash landing in 1974, Lawler made the difficult decision to retire from jumping. Despite retiring at the peak of her career, her contributions to the sport and the broader landscape of women’s empowerment are undeniable. Lawler’s legacy continues to inspire generations of women to pursue their passions fearlessly and break through societal barriers.