FIA award for Andrew Farrington's CPR at Newtown rally
A Powys man who saved a rally driver's life after he collapsed unconscious with a cardiac arrest has been recognised for his 'extraordinary actions' with one of the most prestigious honours in world motorsport.
Andrew Farrington, 62, from the Newtown area, was scrutineering the Phil Price Memorial Woodpecker Stages in the town last September when one of the drivers collapsed in the scrutineering bay.
'I have no medical training, but I remembered my daughter, who previously nursed in A&E, saying that if you do nothing, the person will probably die, but it you try, you may just save their life,' he said.
Remaining calm and focussed under immense pressure, Andrew helped perform life-saving CPR and managed the situation until emergency services arrived.
'Thankfully he made a full recovery following surgery,' Andrew said. 'I went to meet him in hospital which was very humbling. I'm so relieved he survived.
'It was a privilege to be able to help on the day.'
Andrew, who serves as Technical Delegate for the British Rally Championship, has been named recipient of the FIA Outstanding Official of the Year/Specialist Award, a prestigious honour recognising the dedication, passion, and hard work of individuals.
'This FIA award news came out of the blue,' Andrew told the County Times. 'An award of this type is a great honour and a very nice surprise.
'I have no idea how they have heard about me, but it is very nice being recognised for years of service.
'It is much appreciated, and I am very grateful to them.'
The Probite British Rally Championship (BRC) said that it's not just Andrew's technical expertise that set him apart, it's his 'calm leadership and instinctive care for others that truly define him'.
The married father of two daughters has been involved in motorsport since starting out as a marshal in his teens with Newtown and District Automobile Club.
In the 24 years since starting as a licenced scrutineer, Andrew has built a reputation for professionalism, consistency, and unwavering commitment to the sport both nationally and internationally including Peugeot Sport, M-sport, Race of Champions and the World Rally Championship.
'Whether supporting the British Rally Championship at the highest level or assisting at grassroots events across the country, Andrew's impact on UK motorsport is both wide-reaching and deeply felt,' a spokesperson for the BRC said.
'His quick thinking and composure were widely praised and captured the essence of what it means to be a motorsport official.
'The BRC and the wider community are thrilled to see Andrew receive international recognition for his contribution to the sport.
'His award is not only a reflection of decades of hard work but also a powerful reminder of the critical role volunteers and officials play in keeping motorsport safe, fair, and accessible.'
Phil Price Memorial Woodpecker Stages congratulated Andrew on being recognised for his 'extraordinary actions' and his 'unshakeable professionalism' which were widely praised by everyone on-site and beyond.
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