A former Black Watch soldier who lost both his legs after being blown up in Afghanistan will make his car racing debut at Knockhill this weekend.
What’s even more remarkable is that double amputee Davie Birrell will not only drive the BMW Compact Cup racer, but he will do so without the aid of any specially adapted equipment.
Davie, 27, who is originally from Methil, has battled back from horrific injuries he sustained after an IED (improvised explosive device) blew up directly below him.
Davie lost one of his legs in 2010 after administering himself with morphine on the scene and battling advancing Taliban fighters until his comrades arrived. He ultimately lost the fight to save his second leg, which was amputated a year later.
He has always had an interest in motor sport and recently made it to the final eight of a national competition Want2Race, where he impressed with his speed and consistency behind the wheel.
He was also a member of the Kart Force team a charity aimed at helping injured squaddies take on able-bodied karters that competed at the Le Mans 24-hour kart race in France in July.
This weekend he will take to the track for the first time under proper race conditions.
Regular Scottish Marangoni Tyres BMW Compact Cup competitor Christie Doran has loaned her car to Davie for the final round of the Scottish Championship at Knockhill on Sunday.
Christie said: “I was stunned when I read about what Davie had done in Afghanistan and what he had gone through. It seems that the soldiers get very little thanks for what they do and I thought this was just a small effort to help him make his racing ambition come true”.
Davie said: “I was totally overwhelmed when I heard about Christie’s gesture. It must have been hard for her to give up her chance to drive. I can’t thank everyone enough for making it all happen.”
Sunday’s meeting will feature a 17-race programme starting at 10.30am and continuing until 6pm.
Davie will feature twice on the programme, competing in the BMW Compact Cup.
For more information visit www.knockhill.com