A Tribute to Dave Brodie – A Life Lived at Full Throttle

Patrick Head, George Grant, Dave Brodie and Ronnie Grant (left to right)

It’s hard to find the words to capture the essence of Dave Brodie, or “The Brode” as he was affectionately known. To say he was larger than life feels like an understatement. Dave was a man of boundless energy, sharp wit, and an infectious passion for racing that could inspire anyone who crossed his path. His stories were legendary—often colorful, always entertaining, and sometimes with just enough embellishment to make them unforgettable.

I first met Dave when I was 18, and it was a moment that remains etched in my memory. We were delivering a car to Patrick Head’s house after the British Grand Prix, where Clay Regazzoni had just taken a deserved victory. The car broke down halfway, and to our surprise, it was none other than Alan Jones—who had been leading the Grand Prix the day before—who came to pick us up. At Patrick’s house, the atmosphere was electric, and there was Dave, holding court with Frank Williams, Alan Jones, and Patrick Head, among others. Dave’s humor and storytelling had everyone captivated, and it was clear I was in the presence of a true character.

Our paths crossed again years later at Silverstone when I had just earned my ARDS license. Over the following months, I got to know Dave better, and I’ll always be grateful for his kindness and generosity. He even came to Thruxton to give me some driving tuition, convincing the clerk of the course to let us use the course car. That day, he shared his incredible knowledge with me, offering detailed analysis and advice that has stayed with me ever since.

Dave’s contributions to motor racing went far beyond the track. From his early days of racing a humble Austin A30 to building the iconic Ford Escort “Run Baby Run,” his career was a testament to his talent and determination. As a director of Williams Grand Prix Engineering and a trustee of the Gunnar Nilsson Cancer Treatment Charity, Dave’s impact extended to areas far beyond racing. His role in creating the BRDC Rising Stars program ensured his legacy would live on through the next generation of drivers. In recent years, we stayed in touch, and his passion for life never wavered.

​When I last spoke to him, despite recovering from a hospital stay, he was determined to meet up and catch up properly. Sadly, that meeting never happened. My thoughts are with Peggy, Jimmy, Justin, Sasha, and the entire family during this difficult time. Dave, you were a true original—a mentor, a friend, and a storyteller like no other. You’ve joined the fast company up there, and I’m certain you’re already holding court, sharing laughs, and living life at full throttle. You will be dearly missed, but your memory will always bring a smile to those of us lucky enough to have known you.

George Grant
​Clapham North MOT