Archie Scott Brown

ARCHIE SCOTT BROWN d1958. British Formula One and sports car racing driver from Scotland who had a prodigious racing ability despite having the fingers of his right hand missing and having to use his palm to drive. He became known as motorsport's first disabled hero. He battled considerable adversity (including having his licence revoked) to participate in and win some of the most prestigious races of his day. He was the idol of compatriot racer Jim Clark. After being discovered and championed by Brian Lister, he enjoyed great success racing Lister Cars winning the British Empire Trophy in 1957. In his short career, he scored a total of 71 race victories, 15 of which came from international competition. He participated in one Formula One World Championship Grand Prix on 14th July 1956 scoring no championship points. He also attempted to qualify for the Italian Grand Prix in the same year, but was excluded due to his lack of the required International Licence. He was mortally injured (aged 31) during a sports car race on May 18th 1958 at Spa-Francorchamps whilst duelling for the lead (in his Lister Knobbly) with Masten Gregory in his Ecurie Ecosse Lister Jaguar. With Scott Brown leading on lap six, they arrived at Blanchimont to find the track slick with rain. The right-hand front wheel of the Lister hit a road sign, snapping the track rod and causing a disastrous accident. Archie Scott Brown died in hospital (Heusy) the following day