Google Doodle honours Kitty O’Neil: daring stuntwoman and trailblazer

Google Doodle, on March 24, 2023, honoured the life and achievements of Kitty O’Neil, a true trailblazer and a pioneer in her field. O’Neil was born on March 24, 1946, and became one of the most accomplished stuntwomen, stunt coordinators, and racing drivers of her time. But her story has more to tell to the world.

While O’Neil’s career was defined by her daring feats and death-defying stunts, she faced many obstacles along the way. As a child, she contracted mumps, which caused her to lose her hearing. By the time she was a youngster, she was completely deaf. Despite this, O’Neil refused to let her disability hold her back. Instead, she learned to read lips and communicate through sign language.

Her talent and tenacity earned her numerous accolades, including the title of the “World’s Fastest Woman,” a record she set in 1976 when she piloted a rocket-powered vehicle to a top speed of 512 miles per hour. O’Neil also worked on some of Hollywood’s most famous films, including “The Blues Brothers,” “Airport 1975,” and “Smokey and the Bandit II.”

However, her legacy extends beyond her impressive list of achievements. O’Neil was a trailblazer and an inspiration to many. She paved the way for women in her field and proved that gender and disability should never be barriers to success.

In addition to her remarkable career, O’Neil was a passionate advocate for people with disabilities. She worked with the Disabled Olympics and served on the President’s Commission on Employment of the Handicapped. She was also a motivational speaker and a role model for anyone who faced adversity.

Friday’s Google Doodle is a tribute to Kitty O’Neil’s incredible life and her many accomplishments. It is also a reminder that we can all learn from her example. O’Neil’s determination, courage, and compassion inspire us all, and her legacy will continue to inspire the upcoming generations.