Organizers recently announced a new international half marathon and five kilometer (K) race on March 28 on Grand Bahama - one of the most pristine islands of The Bahamas and located just 50 miles off the coast of Florida.

Registration for the Grand Bahama Half Marathon and Beach Beats 5K Race is underway at www.grandbahamahalf.com with discounts available to runners who sign up for either race by January 31.

Race organizers are planning to take full advantage of the stunningly beautiful Caribbean setting to create a world-class road race with a festive, warm and laid-back island party atmosphere. The races will start, end and be celebrated at the Grand Lucayan Beach Resort in Freeport.

"Both courses are designed to be fast and flat, taking athletes along Grand Bahama island's magnificent oceanfront and the varied scenic landmarks along the way," said Scott Kerr, a long-time race organizer who is managing the race with Larry Barthlow of World Events Network. "Grand Bahama is a well kept secret - and for no reason - it's only 50-miles off the coast of Florida, has endless soft white sandy beaches, warm breezes and some of the clearest water on the planet."

Race organizers are seeking a field of up to 5,000 runners from around the world, including a competitive group of elite athletes, said Kerr, who has directed the Salt Lake City Marathon and a host of other sports events.

As the official race headquarters, the Grand Lucayan Beach Resort will serve as the host hotel for the Grand Bahama Half Marathon & Beach Beats 5K Race. Race week activities kick off with the Feelin' Good Expo (Thursday and Friday, March 26-27) and Island Breeze Carbo Load Dinner (Friday March 27). Following the two races on Saturday morning, the event will be capped off by the Get Your Groove On Post Race Beach Party into the wee hours of March 28.

A schedule of events is posted on the race website at http://grandbahamahalf.com/weekend-events/. Volunteers also are needed and can register online or contact info@grandbahamahalf.com for more information.

"We're so excited to be able to offer this new road race event to runners in the U.S., the Caribbean and around the world, and introduce them to one of the most idyllic island settings anywhere," Barthlow said. "They're going to fall in love with this island, its people, the food, the music and, hopefully, the Grand Bahama Half Marathon. We can't wait."

Grand Bahama offers something for every taste. In addition to unique bird life, a cavernous diving world, extensive beach activities and a wide range of water sports, visitors will find excellent duty-free bargains, high-end shops, lively bars and entertainment. Also, thanks to the trade winds, the average temperature for March is a pleasant 77 degrees.

The Grand Lucayan Beach Resort is offering special weekend rate packages in conjunction with the event. For more information about registration, travel and accommodations, the public is asked to go to the website www.grandbahamahalf.com.

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