In wake of hundreds being affected by the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season, many persons are encouraged to give and give genuinely. The five major hurricanes, the highest number since 2010, make 2017, potentially the costliest hurricane season on record, with a preliminary total of over $224 billion (USD) in damages thus far. There is little doubt, that 2017 is turning into a year of historic significance, in the face of the struggle against climate change, and the real effects on communities around the globe.

In Grenada, many of our corporate businesses as well as individuals have come together, to lend support and assistance to our fellow islanders in wake of the volume of extreme weather events.

The Grenada Motor Club, organizers of International Drags Grenada, sought to make a difference to the islands hit by recent hurricanes, through its Test & Tune sessions held on Saturday 23rd September. Speaking at the handover ceremony to the National Disaster Management Agency (NaDMA), President of the GMC Angus DaBreo, thanked the local racers for their contribution and support of the initiative.

Following further consultation and discussion with race enthusiasts and drivers in the region, in the aftermath of the hurricanes, the GMC has made a decision to hold an Invitational Drag Racing Event in November, in place of the initially planned International Event announced earlier on this year.

Ian DaBreo, the clubs PRO, advised that although the club is not in expectation of as many cars from the islands, as the rebuilding stage is still ongoing, support can be anticipated from Trinidad & Tobago, St. Marten and of course host country Grenada.

He stated, “we have taken into consideration the very real challenges facing some of our usual regional participants in being able to come to Grenada and participate in the event. We know that a number of the racing fraternity will do all they possibly can to attend, but for some circumstances are beyond their control. There is an opportunity here, for us to use this event to engage and encourage our sponsors to partner with us, in further contributing towards the Dominica relief fund in particular. We will be committing to contributing 10% of any sponsorship funds received.”

Mr. DaBreo continued “Every donation, regardless of size, can help to rebuild the communities that have been hit by these natural disasters. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed in the face of recent events, resulting in displaced communities, ruined livelihoods, and hundreds of billions of dollars in damage. However, as an organisation we are trying to show that there are things we can all do to help. We invite as many persons as possible to come out in support of our Caribbean neighbours.”

GMC Invitational Drags will take place on November 18th & 19th, 2017.