GFNY Bahamas Combines Racing, International Exposure

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – The GFNY Bahamas cycling race is looking to build on its potential as a sports tourism attraction, bringing international competition to New Providence while showcasing the island beyond its traditional sun-and-sand tourism offering.

The event held its third edition on Sunday, October 18, with riders taking on a mostly flat course through western New Providence. The route passes areas including Baha Mar Boulevard, JFK Drive, Primeval Forest National Park and Clifton Heritage National Park, offering competitors a chance to experience the island’s roads, coastline and natural attractions.

GFNY, short for Gran Fondo New York, is an international cycling series with events in multiple countries. Its global network provides an opportunity to introduce The Bahamas to cyclists and potential visitors through international race coverage, results and participants sharing their experiences.

The event also has the potential to generate economic activity beyond race day, as visiting cyclists may travel with family and friends, stay in local hotels, dine at restaurants and support other businesses. Continued growth in participation and international interest could help strengthen the country’s sports tourism offering.

On the course, Colombia’s Edwin Sandoval won the men’s overall title in 2:32:47.53, while Mariela Figuer of El Salvador claimed the women’s overall title in 2:35:47.84.

Sailing

The spotlight returns to the water this weekend as Exuma prepares to host the Junior Sunfish Nationals, with the country’s top young sailors set to compete for national honours.

Last year’s championships in Elizabeth Harbour saw Drake Knowles of the Mack Knowles Junior Sailing Club in Long Island claim the Gold Fleet title. Exuma Sailing Club’s Emit Knowles finished second, while Kaiden Knowles of the Bahamas National Sailing School placed third.

The Emerald Fleet title went to Kai Harvey of the Bahamas National Sailing School, with Eloise Amorello-Bradley finishing as the top female sailor and Wyllan Braynen of Exuma taking third.

This weekend’s event follows the recent Junior Optimist Nationals in Abaco, where young sailors also had the opportunity to test their skills and compete for national titles.

With national championships providing an important platform for development, Exuma will once again be a focal point for the next generation of Bahamian sailing talent.

CARIFTA Gymnastics

With the 2026 CARIFTA Artistic Gymnastics Championships approaching, the Gymnastics Federation of The Bahamas is calling on Corporate Bahamas to step forward and help make the historic event a success.

The championships are set for November 13 through 15 at the Sir Kendal G. L. Isaacs Gymnasium, marking the first time The Bahamas will host the regional competition.

Federation President Cora Hepburn is appealing to businesses to partner with the organisation through title, gold and silver sponsorship opportunities, as officials prepare to welcome more than 500 visitors from across the region.

The event presents an opportunity for corporate partners to support young Bahamian athletes while contributing to the development of gymnastics and the country’s sports tourism industry.

The Bahamas has finished third at the first two editions of the championships, improving from 22 medals in 2024 to 44 in 2025.