When and where was Kitty O Neil born? Kitty O’Neil was born on March 24, 1946, in Corpus Christi, Texas, United States. She was a remarkable athlete and stuntwoman who set multiple world records in various sports, including drag racing, speed skiing, and water skiing.
Kitty O’Neil Early Life:
Kitty O’Neil’s childhood was marked by several challenges. She contracted mumps, measles, and smallpox at an early age, which left her partially deaf. She also lost her parents when she was just a child and was raised by her grandparents. However, O’Neil’s indomitable spirit and determination helped her overcome these obstacles and pursue her passion for sports and adventure.
Kitty O’Neil Athletic Career:
In her early years, O’Neil became an accomplished diver, winning several competitions. However, her true talent shone in motor racing. She quickly established herself as a top-notch driver, setting multiple world records for speed and endurance. In 1976, she became the first woman to drive a rocket-powered vehicle, reaching a speed of 618 miles per hour. She also set records in drag racing, speed skiing, and water skiing.
Kitty O’Neil Stuntwoman Career:
Apart from racing, O’Neil was also a skilled stuntwoman. She worked in several Hollywood movies, performing dangerous stunts and showcasing her incredible skills. She even served as Lynda Carter’s stunt double in the iconic TV series, Wonder Woman. O’Neil’s stunt work was featured in popular movies such as Smokey and the Bandit II and The Blues Brothers.
Kitty O’Neil Personal Life:
Kitty O’Neil was a private person who rarely talked about her personal life. However, it is known that she was married to her longtime partner, Richard Schroeder, and they lived together in Eureka, South Dakota.
Kitty O’Neil Legacy:
Kitty O’Neil’s achievements made her a role model for young girls and women worldwide. She proved that women can achieve anything they set their minds to and break through barriers that have been set up by society. Her legacy lives on today, inspiring a new generation of young women to pursue their dreams and follow in her footsteps. O’Neil was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2018.
Kitty O’Neil Death:
In 2018, Kitty O’Neil passed away at the age of 72 due to pneumonia. She left behind a remarkable legacy that continues to inspire people worldwide. Her determination, courage, and spirit of adventure will forever be remembered as a testament to the human spirit.
When did Kitty o neil become deaf?
Kitty O’Neil became partially deaf after contracting measles, mumps, and smallpox when she was just five months old. This led to a loss of hearing in both ears, and by the time she was in her 20s, she had lost almost all of her hearing. Despite her hearing impairment, O’Neil never let it hold her back from pursuing her dreams, and she went on to become one of the most accomplished athletes and stuntwomen of her time.