Mary Weston-Webb, now 71 years old, made headlines in the 1970s and 80s for her daring stunts as a human cannonball. Her journey into this death-defying profession began with a simple conversation in the office that sparked a revolutionary idea – to be shot out of a cannon across the River Avon. Despite the seeming impossibility and danger of her dream, Mary turned it into a reality and paved the way for other women to follow in her footsteps.
A Trailblazer for Women in Stunt Performances
As a young woman, Mary was determined to break barriers and challenge the norms of her time. At the age of 19, she defied her parents’ wishes and joined the UK’s first all-female stunt display group called the Motobirds. This decision led her down a path of thrilling and dangerous stunts that captured the attention of audiences around the world.
Mary’s involvement in the group eventually led her to Joe Weston-Webb, a showman and owner of the human cannonball. The two eventually fell in love and got married, embarking on a journey filled with excitement and adrenaline-fueled performances that captivated audiences everywhere.
Facing Fear and Overcoming Challenges
Mary’s first attempt at being shot out of a cannon over the River Avon in Tewkesbury in August 1974 was met with both excitement and terror. Despite appearing confident on the outside, Mary admitted to feeling terrified on the inside. The experience was a mix of adrenaline and fear as she was catapulted through the air and into the water below.
Throughout her career as a human cannonball, Mary faced numerous challenges and obstacles, including accidents and injuries. Despite the risks involved, she continued to push the boundaries of what was possible in the world of stunt performances. From being blasted across Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge stadium at midnight to setting world records for cannonball launches, Mary’s career was filled with unforgettable moments and heart-stopping thrills.
Inspiring Future Generations
Mary’s daring feats and groundbreaking performances inspired a generation of women to pursue their passions and break free from societal expectations. She and her fellow female stunt performers were trailblazers in their own right, proving that women could excel in daring and dangerous sports traditionally dominated by men.
After retiring from her career as a human cannonball, Mary ventured into business with Joe, specializing in high-end party marquees. Their business took them around the world, from America to the UK, where they faced challenges and triumphs together. Despite the loss of her husband in 2012 and her son to coronavirus, Mary remains proud of her achievements and the impact she had on future generations of women.
Looking back on her storied career, Mary reflects on the legacy she has left behind and the inspiration she has provided to countless individuals. Her courage, determination, and willingness to take risks have paved the way for others to follow their dreams and push the boundaries of what is possible.
As Mary’s story continues to inspire and captivate audiences, her legacy as a pioneering female stunt performer lives on, reminding us all to embrace fear, challenge the status quo, and reach for the stars.
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