Debbie Lawler "The Flying Angel" — United States

Debbie Lawler was raised in a family of girls, but did everything a boy would do. Her father gave her a motorcycle for her 10th birthday.

By the time she was 16 years old, she was riding her bike at tracks and in motor cross races. While in her teens, she modeled part-time in Phoenix, Arizona and raced on the weekends. She eventually met a manager who helped her pursue a career as a female motorcycle jumper.

In 1974, she set the world's record for indoor motorcycle jumping for women. The 21 year old jumped over 16 cars in the Houston Astrodome. The length of the jump was 101 ft.

Later in March of 1975, she crashed during a performance. She was making a jump at the Ontario Motor Speedway in California. A strong gust of wind spun her motorcycle out of control. She was only 5ft. 2 inches and weighed 105 lbs. She flew to a new record of 140 feet before she skidded 150 feet on her helmet and back. Debbie broke her back in three places but survived.

Debbie took determination and a positive mind set into every jump — and her lucky orange bra. Once she began her approach to the take off ramp, she was committed.

Debbie said, "I've always been the kind who, when people say something can't be done, goes out and does it. To know I'm using all my own abilities, that no one else can help me, that's the joy of jumping. I love my motorcycle, when I feel the wind in my face and I'm free." Many fans might remember her as "The Flying Angel".

1975

1974