The Bahamas Speed Weeks (1st edition)

By Terry O'Neil, Veloce Publishing. Hardback • 336 pages • 250mm tall x 250mm • 350 illustrations.
An unfolding story from the inception to the demise of a unique series of motor races held on an exotic island during the ‘Golden Age’ of motor racing. International drivers and Bahamians mingled for 2 weeks each year during which the social events were as important as the races to those involved.
The vision of one man, Captain Sherman ‘Red’ Crise formed the basis for what was to become the Bahamas Speed Weeks, a series of motor races held on the island of New Providence in the Bahamas. They started in the mid 1950s and continued for 13 years, before ending due to a mix of political decisions, ill fortune and a shift in the direction motor racing had taken over that period of time. These years were described by many commentators as the ‘Golden Age’ of motor racing, where internationally acclaimed drivers attended the Speed Weeks to mix with the many amateur racers from America who came to enjoy the senario of sun, parties and racing. For many drivers the social scene was as important as the racing, and in latter years prize money was an extra incentive to turn up. This well researched account tracks the history of the Speed Weeks with its roller-coaster ride throughout its 13 years existence.
Independent reviews:
- "This book takes the reader on a fascinating journey, backed up by an amazing array of archive photography and illustrations – everything from drivers’ autographs and official race programmes to all-action imagery of what went on trackside. 
- It’s an unusual subject, but a truly fascinating one. If period motor sport is your thing, it’s the latest must-have for your bookshelf." – Classic Car Mart.
- "Hundreds of photos along with program covers and badges, entry lists, invitations and race results, add to this amazing treasure trove, one of the best racing books of 2006." – Vintage Motorsport.
- "O'Neil has done a great job reassembling the facts, down to full results. An entertaining picture of an event where a DNF was trivial compared to not being invited to Lady Oakes's At Home'... " – Motor Sport.