Motorsport news as another Iconic cars returns to Nassau
The only remaining 375MM PininFarina Spyder still in original, unrestored condition will make its return to Nassau from the USA in 2012 after a 57 year absence. Last seen here in 1955, this fabulous car was campaigned in the original Nassau Speed Weeks in the Governor's Trophy and the Ferrari Race, driven by Duncan Black.
Its extensive race history in the USA began with the 1954 Sebring 12 Hours at Sebring, in the hands of Bill Spears and America's first World Champion, Phil Hill. Its final race was at Watkins Glen with Ian Gun, after which it was parked up in a barn, where it remained for nearly 40 years. Two years ago, after Ian's death, the car was acquired by it's current Austrian owner who has had it 'simply' recommissioned, avowing to preserve the car's complete originality. Fortunately for us, he also believes the car should be used and seen rather than locked away in a private collection. After all, half of the enjoyment of this car comes from hearing the glorious sound emanating from its four tail-pipes.
And it's not only original cars we will be welcoming back to the Bahamas. Some Bahamas Speed Week Revival Founder Entrants will also be making a welcome return. Mike and Dawn Fisher from the USA will be bringing his incredible Bocar back to the island. This roaring beast almost literally blew the socks of the locals in 2011 and is so loud Mike has to wear ear defenders to drive it on the road! David and Kate Cottingham will once again make the long journey from the UK, this time with David's truly fantastic Ferrari 500 TRC and making the even longer journey from Europe will be Kurt and Briggitte Oberhnsli, once more gracing the Touring class with their pristine Mercedes 190 SL.
Peter and Pippa Vlasov won't have quite so far to travel as they live on the island! They were responsible for one of the 2011 event highlights - the Lyford Cay Concours and we look forward to this year's repeat with eager anticipation. Their cars will, however, have to travel - Pete is bringing his Austin Healey 3000 MKIII BJ8 over from Switzerland and Pippa has bought a 1275 S Mini Cooper from the USA especially for the event. Pippa's Mini will travel across from the USA on the Mailboat which has been exclusively chartered by the organisers to bring US Entrants' cars across from West Palm Beach.
Derek Bell will drive a lovely, and rare, Ferrari 500 Barchetta kindly loaned to him by Peter Vlasov. He should feel very much 'at home' in it, considering he used to drive for the Ferrari F1 Team!
