The Tribune

Exuma’s Grand Isle Resort and Spa yesterday announced it will sponsor Bahamas Speed Week 2013 as the official Family Island partner.

Grant Castle, Grand Isle Resort & Spa’s executive director, said: “We are thrilled to be joining forces with Bahamas Speed Week and becoming the official pit stop as they cross the finish line.

“One a glamorous event in the 1950s, Speed Week has been growing since its revival three years ago. We look forward to doing our part as Speed Week kicks into high gear.”

Grand Isle will host a group of automotive enthusiasts at its property on December 9, following Speed Week in Nassau.

The resort, which will have a presence at the event’s Paddock Club, said guests will fly to Exuma on a private plane, landing on Farmer’s Cay and having lunch at Ty’s Bar and Grill before heading on to Grand Isle.

Guests from Europe, the US and Canada will be among the visitors heading to Exuma.

Bahamas Speed Week is expecting more than 40 entrants this year, all bringing vintage vehicles worth a minimum $200,000.

David McLaughlin, a key Bahamas Speed Week organiser, said: “We are excited about the future, and certainly, unwinding at Grand Isle will only enhance the event.

“Now in its third revival, Bahamas Speed Week has reached a critical point where it will become a signature event on the Bahamian tourism and social calendar.”

Grand Isle Villas, located next to the Sandals Emerald Bay Resort, features 78 one to four-bedroom villas, ranging in size from 1,250 square feet to 5,200 square feet.