Bissessar breaks 12-year drag racing record in Grenada

Bissessar, who was racing in Grenada for the first time, broke the record by driving an 850 horsepower dragster, over the quarter mile track, in 7.4 seconds, beating the long-standing record of 7.9 seconds in the open class.

Earlier, Bissessar qualified with the fastest time of 8.00 seconds.

Bissessar also currently holds the Wallerfield track record with a best time of 7.2 seconds.

Trinidadian and veteran racer Hollister “Flambo” Edwards, a regular visitor to Grenada, took second place in 8.2.

Racers competed in various categories, testing their skill, nerve and machines.

Much of May 20 was used for testing and tuning the cars and getting familiar with the track, with qualifying runs taking place in preparation for race day.

There was a good turnout of drivers and racing enthusiasts from the Caribbean including St Maarten, Anguilla, St Vincent and long term supporters Trinidad and Tobago.

There was a strong presence from Grenadian drivers and approximately 4,000 local supporters came out, including Parliamentary representative for St Andrew Yolande Bain- Horsford.

Participants from Anguilla and St Maarten were impressed with the level of emphasis placed on this international event.

They made particular note of the increased number of test and tune events, held by the GMC for local racers throughout the year, to improve competition skills and the sport overall.

They commented that further investment in the Caribbean region’s racing sector would provide the impetus for an increase in the sports tourism visitor niche, and ultimately be beneficial to all participating countries.

RESULTS Open Class: 1.Andy Bissessar, TT, 7.4 seconds (national record); 2.Hollister “Flambo” Edwards, TT, 8.2 seconds.

Nine-Second Class: 1 Joshua Lewis, Grenada, 9.2 seconds; 2.Champ Maitland, Grenada, 9.7 seconds.

10-Second Class: 1.Jogdeo Seecharaw (Mad Cow), TT, 10.2 seconds.

16-Second Class: 1.Marlon Morain (Pony), Grenada, 16.3 seconds; 2.Sylvester Modeste, Grenada.

Motorbike Shoot Out: 1.Shawn Briggs, TT, 8.89 seconds; 2.Rondel Jagessar, TT, 9.3 seconds.