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Scottish Motorsport Awards celebrate inspiring efforts in the sport

Monday 24 February 2025

The Scottish Association of Motor Sport Clubs celebrated the contributions of clubs, events, and individuals in Scotland, highlighting inspiring efforts in the sport, at their recent Awards evening.

Numerous community members were celebrated with the following receiving Awards:

Equity and Inclusion Award Winner – Knockhill Racing Circuit: Jillian Shedden and Stuart Gray have championed equal access to motorsport at the venue. Their initiatives include partnerships to engage young drivers, accessibility improvements, and strong support for the Armed Forces. They also lead efforts to boost female participation in motorsport.

Innovation in Motorsport Award Winner – Sandy Burgess: A motorsport enthusiast for 50 years, Sandy has competed across multiple disciplines and fostered connections between motorsport and the auto industry. His focus on the I.N.D.Y 25 schools programme aligns with the Jim Clark Trust, promoting careers in motorsport.

Highly commended – Scottish Motor Racing Club: They pioneered Scotland’s first rally for electric vehicles, emphasising sustainability and innovation while securing inclusion in the Bridgestone FIA EcoRally Cup.

Best Grassroots Motorsport Event Winner – Scottish Sporting Car Club: Their Charity StreetCar AutoSOLO combined thrilling competition with community impact, raising £1,000 for charity. They also support Trees for Life, contributing to forest restoration and sustainability.

Youth Voice Award Winner – Junior 1000 Ecosse Challenge: The organising committee work tirelessly promotes rallying to 14-17-year-olds, with Chairman Roy Campbell leading fundraising efforts with coordinator Rhona Dickie supporting the recruitment of diverse drivers. The team also mentor young rally talents, fostering confidence and camaraderie.

Engagement Award Winner – Ian McRae: Ian promotes rallying across Scotland, mentoring juniors and assisting events. As secretary of Junior 1000 Ecosse Challenge, he supports new drivers and volunteers, making motorsport more accessible.

Scottish Motorsport Volunteer of the Year Award Winner – Keith Cowan: A dedicated Chief Marshal, Keith ensures events run smoothly, supports volunteers, and upholds high standards across Scottish rallies.

Highly commended – Alistair Reid & Craig Munro Fisher: Alistair is an active motorsport advocate and volunteer. Craig takes on various rally roles, from stage setup to crisis management, mentoring new marshals.

Lifetime Achievement Award Winner – John Fife: A motorsport journalist for 50 years, John has reported globally and contributed significantly to the Scottish Rally Championship. His ongoing work documenting its history cements his legacy in the sport.

Sandy Denham, Vice President, commented, on behalf of the SAMSC, “I would like to thank Andrew Tulloch, Curator of the Jim Clark Museum, and his team for their assistance in allowing this event to take place in such an emotive and inspirational venue.

“Furthermore, my thanks to Jim Clark Trust members Doug Niven and Ian Calder for their presence and support, also Linda Cowan, wife of the late Rally Legend Andrew Cowan, and the kind and supportive words provided by the FIA Deputy President of Sport and former World Rally Champion, Robert Reid.”