08/28/2026
On this day in 2019, the racing world lost Jessi Combs — a tenacious, brilliant, fearless woman who spent her life proving that there were no limits to what she could accomplish.
Born and raised in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Jessi carried that independent, adventurous spirit everywhere she went. Known as the “Go Fastest Girl,” she became a trailblazer in motorsports and the trades, inspiring countless women to chase careers, build things, race, and most importantly, believe they belonged.
And then came the record.
In 2019, Jessi Combs piloted the North American Eagle Supersonic Speed Challenger to an officially recognized two-way average speed of 522.783 mph, earning the title of the Fastest Woman on Earth. It was the culmination of years of determination, engineering, courage and an unwavering willingness to go where few others dared.
Her final attempt ultimately claimed her life, but it never claimed her legacy.
Jessi wasn't defined solely by the number on the speedometer. She was defined by her attitude, her curiosity, her work ethic and the doors she opened for the people who followed her.
She once said, “Failure is not an option.”
She lived those words.
If you haven't experienced The Fastest Woman on Earth, the documentary celebrating Jessi's extraordinary life and legacy, there's a special opportunity tomorrow at the Homestake Opera House.
Today, we remember Jessi Combs — not simply for how fast she went, but for how fiercely she lived.
Forever the Fastest Woman on Earth. Forever an inspiration.
What is your favorite memory of Jessi Combs or the impact she had on motorsports?
