Kitty O’Neil

Record-breaking Stuntwoman Continues to Leave a Mark

Kitty O'Neil's life was a testament to courage, resilience, and the power of determination. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, O'Neil faced adversity from an early age. An illness during infancy left her deaf, and she battled additional health challenges throughout her life, including overcoming spinal meningitis and two bouts of cancer. 

Despite these obstacles, O'Neil refused to be defined by her disabilities. As a teenager, she found comfort and success in the world of competitive diving, winning Amateur Athletic Union championships under the guidance of her coach, Sammy Lee. However, her Olympic dreams were halted by a wrist injury and a bout of spinal meningitis, redirecting her focus to new challenges. 

Undeterred by setbacks, O'Neil embraced a life of adventure, pursuing water skiing, scuba diving, skydiving, and hang gliding with a fearless spirit. In 1970, she transitioned to the world of motorsports, competing in races such as the Baja 500 and the Mint 400. 

It was O'Neil's groundbreaking achievements in the realm of speed racing that truly set her apart. In 1976, she shattered the women's land-speed record, reaching an astonishing 512.7 miles per hour in a rocket-powered vehicle—a feat that earned her the title of "the fastest woman in the world." Her record-breaking run in southeastern Oregon's Alvord Desert remains unmatched to this day. 

However, her legacy extends beyond the race track. A fearless stuntwoman, she performed death-defying feats in Hollywood films, including "Airport '77," "The Blues Brothers," and "Smokey and the Bandit II." Her unparalleled skill and courage earned her recognition as the first woman to perform with Stunts Unlimited, a leading stunt agency. 

In 1978, O'Neil was immortalized in the form of a Mattel action figure, a testament to her impact and influence in the world of entertainment. Her daring exploits, including setting a women's high-fall record of 127 feet and a women's speed record on water of 275 miles per hour, captivated audiences and inspired generations. 

Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her life, O'Neil's resilience and determination never wavered. When she retired, she had set 22 speed records on land and on water. Unfortunately, O’Neil died of pneumonia on November 2, 2018 after suffering a heart attack at Eureka Community Hospital in Eureka, South Dakota at the age of 72. 

Kitty O'Neil's indomitable spirit and trailblazing achievements continue to inspire individuals around the world, serving as a reminder that with perseverance and courage, anything is possible. Her legacy as a true pioneer in motorsports and entertainment will forever be etched in history.