Ally Chalmers, a 17-year-old Scheme customer from Scotland, has made history. He’s the first wheelchair-using driver to get his race license and compete in the Scottish Mini Cooper Cup, paving the way for others to follow.
Ally uses a wheelchair after a serious skiing accident in March 2022. He was injured just two weeks after coming second in the Scottish national junior skiing championships. The accident left him unable to walk, but it did not slow him down.
Instead, Ally found a new way to compete and chase the thrill of speed: behind the wheel of a racing car.
With the help of his mum, Carole, and support from others in motorsport, Ally worked hard to make his dream possible. He passed his Association of Racing Drivers (ARD) test when 16, the first person in Scotland who uses a wheelchair to do so, and earned a place on the grid at Knockhill Racing Circuit.
And in his first race, he made quite the impression, finishing as runner-up Driver of the Day.
Find out how the Scheme is supporting Team BRIT to help provide a level playing field for disabled drivers.
Chasing big dreams
Ally’s story is one of hard work, passion and perseverance. After his accident, he and Carole appealed to change racing rules to allow drivers using hand controls to compete. They also teamed up with experts to adapt his racing car, which involved combining elements from two Mini Cooper’s.
“I have always loved competing,” Ally says. “Getting back into sport after my accident has been huge for me. I’m a lot younger than most of the others, so I’m proud of how it’s gone so far. I’m really looking forward to racing again, and hopefully one day I can go professional.”
Learn more about the adaptions available on the Scheme via our website.
New ambassador for the Motability Scheme
We’re proud to say Ally is now one of our ambassadors. The Motability Scheme means more than just vehicles, it’s about freedom and independence. And Ally’s story is a brilliant reminder of what’s possible.
“Being able to take driving lessons and have a car I can use every day has made such a difference,” Ally says. “It’s great to work with the Scheme as one of their ambassadors.”
Paving a way for others to achieve their goals
Ally’s mum, Carole, says: “Sport has always been a big part of Ally’s life. After the accident, we knew how important it was for him to still have that outlet, not just to take part, but to compete. There were hurdles along the way, but he’s stayed focused on his goal of becoming a race car driver.”
“We hope Ally’s story inspires others. He might be the first disabled driver to compete in Scotland, but he certainly won’t be the last.”
Although Ally will be taking a short break from racing later this year for surgery, he’s already looking forward to getting back on the track.
Ally recently shared his story with BBC Scotland across TV, Radio and Online. Find out more here:
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