The Incredible Journey of Rally Driver Malcolm Graham and Co-Driver Charlie Woodward Pt 1

On this episode of Backseat Driver Podcast, I sat down with former rally driver Malcolm Graham and his co-driver, Charlie Woodward, for a profoundly insightful interview. Malcolm took us on a journey through the annals of rallying history, starting from his humble beginnings in 1961 with an unlikely rally car, a Triumph Herald Cooper.

Throughout his career, Malcolm piloted an impressive array of vehicles, from minis to Ford Capris, but his tenure with the Datsun 160J SSS indeed left a mark. However, his rallying aspirations faced a formidable challenge when he was diagnosed with cancer of the vocal cords, ultimately leading to a total laryngectomy that significantly altered his voice.

Despite this setback, Malcolm's unwavering passion for rally driving remained undiminished. With the steadfast support of Charlie Woodward and the sponsorship of Taylor's, a local Datsun dealer, he continued to compete, boldly embracing Datsun cars even in an era sceptical of Japanese vehicles.

Our conversation with Malcolm was peppered with captivating anecdotes, from his early fascination with rallying to the evolution of his rally cars. He candidly shared the challenges of adapting to a new voice and its profound impact on his life and career.

However, perhaps the most touching aspect of our discussion was Malcolm and Charlie's enduring friendship and rallying partnership. Their bond transcended the trials and triumphs of the rally circuit, serving as a testament to the human spirit's resilience and camaraderie's power.

In the end, Malcolm's story is one of resilience, determination, and unyielding passion—a testament to the rally driver's indomitable spirit. Through his remarkable journey, he has inspired countless enthusiasts and left an indelible mark on the world of rallying.