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

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

Author: Mark Stone May 29, 2024 Duration: 35:34

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.

Mentioned in this episode:

Tarox Brakes

Sponsored by TAROX Brakes Engineered in Italy. Tested on track. Trusted on the street. TAROX performance brake kits deliver progressive feel, zero fade, and serious stopping power — all with show-stopping looks. 🔧 tarox.co.uk – Precision Braking Since 1976.


There's a particular kind of conversation that happens when the engine is off and the real talk begins. Backseat Driver captures that feeling, hosted by Mark Stone from his home in England's north-west. Mark's own journey from competitive driving in the eighties to decades of motoring journalism and television gives him a unique vantage point. He's not just a reporter; he's lived the life, and that genuine enthusiasm for anything with an engine comes through in every discussion. This podcast is built around Mark's conversations with the prominent figures who shape the automotive world, from legendary engineers and designers to champion racers and behind-the-scenes innovators. You'll hear stories that rarely make it into magazine articles, personal reflections on iconic cars, and unfiltered opinions on where the industry is headed. It's for anyone who finds the culture of motoring as compelling as the machinery itself. Tune in for a deep, relaxed dive into the passion that drives us all, hosted by someone who has truly been there and done it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Backseat Driver
Podcast Episodes
Lombard Rally Festival Revesby Pt. 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:47
Join me, Mark Stone, for a thrilling episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast as we explore the automotive marvels at the Lombard Rally Reesby Hall. I chat with passionate car enthusiasts in this special edition, starting…
Lombard Rally Festival Revesby Pt. 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:24
Join me, Mark Stone, on the Backseat Driver Podcast as we dive into the world of historic and modern rally cars at the exciting Lombard Rally Festival Revesby in Lincolnshire.We start with highlights from the Lombard Ral…
Bridge House Tea Rooms 50th Classic Car Night Celebration [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 26:53
It's me Mark Stone, at Bridge House Tea Rooms with an exciting celebration of the 50th Classic Car Night. In this episode, I chat with John Wright, who spearheads this unique event supporting North West Air Ambulance and…
Lee Tombling and Alexander McCabe on Trucking and Literature [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:31
In this episode of The Backseat Driver Podcast, we welcome back our esteemed guest, truck driver Lee Tombling, alongside the intriguing newcomer, Alexander McCabe, who brings a unique perspective as a former legal expert…
Qal Shah Discusses Cutting-Edge Car Tuning Techniques [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:22
In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Qal Shah, an expert in car tuning from BHP UK. Throughout our conversation, Cal provided fascinating insights into the evolution of…
Richard Usher's Immersive Tribute to British Automobiles [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:38
In this episode of the Backstreet Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Richard Usher, the visionary behind the Great British Car Journey. Together, we embarked on a captivating journey through British automotive…
Holme Moss Hill Climb 2024 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:22
Join me, Mark Stone, as I explore the thrilling Holme Moss Hill Climb 2024, the final recreation of this historic event. We start by delving into the History of Hill Climb Racing and how it has evolved. Then, enjoy exclu…
Bryn Pearce on Lightning House's Impact on Motorsport [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:44
In this Backseat Driver Podcast, I have the pleasure of sitting with Bryn Pearce, representing Lightning House Motorsport Promotions and Events. Bryn takes us on an exhilarating journey through Lightning House's inceptio…