Who Was Patti McGee? Skateboarding’s First Female Champion & Legend

Patti McGee, who recently passed away at 79, is remembered as a pioneering figure in skateboarding, having made significant contributions to the sport's growth and visibility. Her achievements as the first-ever female skateboard champion set a precedent for women in a male-dominated sport. Born Patricia Ann McGee on August 23, 1945, at Fort Lewis, an Army base in Washington, McGee’s love for adventure and movement defined her early years and would ultimately shape her legacy.

Early Life and Introduction to Skateboarding

Growing up in the Point Loma neighbourhood of San Diego, McGee was raised primarily by her mother, Esther, who worked as a home economics and physical education teacher. Her father, Jack, served as an Army medic before becoming a pharmaceutical salesman. After her parents separated, McGee found solace and thrill in the ocean, taking up surfing in 1958. She joined the Pump House Gang, a group of surfers that later gained attention through Tom Wolfe's article in The New York Herald Tribune, which became part of his essay collection in 1968.

It was McGee's absolute love for thrill-seeking activities that led her to skateboarding. Reflecting on this era in a later interview, McGee noted, “I was never one to sit on the beach or hang out in the car. I had to be doing something, and skateboarding was perfect.” 

Her introduction to skateboarding began humbly when her brother surprised her by constructing her first skateboard in the wood shop using parts from her shoe skate. She later upgraded to a Bun Buster skateboard, which opened doors to a whole new world of adrenaline!

Rise to National Fame and Breaking Records

McGee’s transition from enthusiast to professional skateboarder was swift. In 1964, she became the first woman to win the National Skateboard Championships held in Santa Monica, marking a historic moment for women in skateboarding. That same year, she set a world record for the fastest woman on a skateboard, reaching 47 miles per hour on a Bun Buster skateboard during Dick Clark’s World Teen Fair. Her bold record-breaking performance was a defining moment in skateboarding history, placing her in the spotlight as a daring and skilled athlete.

From Magazine Covers to TV Appearances

With her reputation growing, McGee soon caught the attention of national media. She appeared on the cover of Life magazine in May 1965, showcasing skateboarding as an exciting, emerging sport. In the same year, she graced the cover of Skateboarder magazine’s fourth issue. McGee’s skills and vibrant personality led her to perform live on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, where she demonstrated skateboarding tricks that left audiences in awe. Her charm and talent also earned her a spot on the game show What’s My Line?, where her occupation as a skateboarder was correctly guessed by panellist Arlene Francis.

The First Female Professional Skateboarder

McGee made further history by becoming the first female professional skateboarder, sponsored by Hobie and Vita-Pak to travel nationwide for skateboard demonstrations. Her sponsorship solidified her role as a professional in the sport, allowing her to reach wider audiences and inspire many young women to take up skateboarding. This nearly year-long tour was pivotal in popularizing skateboarding across the United States, as McGee’s performances showcased all kinds of skill and creativity possible on a skateboard.

Later Life, Legacy, and Induction into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame

After her marriage to Glenn Villa and the birth of her two children, McGee continued to be active in her local skateboarding community, often sharing her experiences and insights. She settled in Cave Creek, Arizona, and later in Brea, California. In 2010, McGee was honoured as the first woman inducted into the International Association of Skateboard Companies (IASC) Skateboarding Hall of Fame, a recognition of her invaluable contributions to the sport. The 2021 release of There Goes Patti McGee!, a children’s picture book about her life, brought her story to a new generation, emphasizing her influence and enduring legacy in skateboarding.

A Legacy That Continues Through Family and Fans

Beyond her achievements, McGee was cherished as a mother, grandmother, and mentor. Her daughter followed in her footsteps, embracing skateboarding, while her grandchildren remembered her as a fun-loving, adventurous presence in their lives. Her grandson Camdyn, who fondly recalled her presence at his soccer game just weeks before her passing, expressed gratitude for her influence and love. Patti McGee’s passing on October 16, 2024, marks the end of an era but leaves a legacy that continues to inspire.