The famous American racer and TV presenter Jesse Combs died in an accident, trying to set a speed record on a jet car. This information was confirmed by representatives of her family.

“Jesse was famous for her radiant smile, optimism and perseverance on the way to a dream. Her attitude was contagious, and she served as a role model for many girls and women around the world. Those who loved and followed her successes became a family, which was associated with adventure and passion. Fans adored her, and she lived to inspire them. Since 2012, Jesse most of all dreamed of becoming the fastest woman on Earth. Combs was one of the few dreamers who had the courage to make the real possible. She left this world, having developed a driving speed higher than any other representative of motorsport history, ”the Autoblog portal quotes the statement.

In addition, they reported that in memory of the athlete, a charity foundation will be established that will help girls and women “fulfill their dream."

The tragedy occurred in the Alvord Desert, located in Oregon and well known to all jet car enthusiasts. Local law enforcement agencies are currently trying to find out what exactly caused the accident.

It is assumed that this is a fire, but the details will become known when the on-board computers containing information about the engine are restored. At the same time, colleague and young man of the racer Chris Madden, who was at the scene of the accident, assured that she was immediately given first aid, but all attempts to save the girl were unsuccessful.

Since childhood, the life of Combs has been closely associated with cars. Having received the specialty of auto mechanic, she did not stop there and began to take part in races herself.

In 2013, the athlete joined the North American Eagle racing team specializing in fighter jets. Then she set the first record on a four-wheeled car among women, amounting to 632 km / h. Three years later, she updated this achievement, reaching a speed of 769 km / h. On the day of the death, Combs tried to set a new record.

“It might seem that putting yourself at risk is recklessness. But those who are willing to take risks achieve great achievements. People call me crazy. I answer them: “Thank you,” wrote the racer a few days before the tragedy.

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Posted by Jessi Combs (@thejessicombs) Aug 24, 2019 at 2:22 PDT

Thanks to his accomplishments, Combs earned the nickname “The Fastest Woman on Four Wheels,” and also became a true motorsport legend. However, the main goal in life for her was the speed record among all land vehicles, which currently belongs to American stuntman Kitty O'Neill and is 843 km / h.

Combs was the host of several shows about cars and extreme sports, and also took part in the famous Discovery show Legend Breakers. In addition, she was actively involved in the promotion of women's motorsport.

The death of Combs shocked the whole world of auto and motor sports. Representatives of various disciplines expressed condolences to her family and friends. Among them are seven-time US champion in motocross Jeremy McGrath, former Formula 1 racer Jenson Button, as well as the first Canadian motocross champion and winner of several Guinness World Records Jolene Van Wugt.

“I was fortunate enough to meet Jesse Combs recently, this month, in Sturgis. If you do not know who this woman is, you need to find out. This unbridled, spiritualized, unique and fearless beauty left us too early. I sincerely condolences to her family, friends, fans and motor racing representatives. There were too many losses this year, ”van Vugt wrote.

Famous American racer Won Gittin Jr. also joined in the condolences. He emphasized Combs' dedication that inspired many people around the world.

“I will never forget our conversation last week. I asked if she could afford the upcoming test. In response, she said: "Yes, I am the fastest woman in the world and look forward to the opportunity to reach a new level." Then she began to enthusiastically and in detail talk about the process of driving her jet car and what they were going to achieve. With her confidence, she dispelled all my doubts. With great love and respect, I appeal to everyone who mourns the loss of this tough girl. You left, doing your favorite thing, we will miss you, ”wrote Gittin, Jr.