2011 Race Winner: #9-Marcos Ambrose, 99.417, started 3rd

Race Record: Mark Martin, 103.900mph, 8/13/1995

Slowest Race Record: Kyle Petty, 50.879mph, August 1992

Youngest Winner: Kyle Busch (08/10/2008 - 23 years, 3 months, 8 days)

Oldest Winner: Geoffrey Bodine (08/11/1996 - 47 years, 3 months, 24 days)

2011 Pole Sitter: #18-Kyle Busch, 126.421, finished 3rd

Track Qualifying Record: Kyle Busch, August 2011, 126.421mph

Worst Starting Spot to Win: Steve Park, August 2000, started 18th

Youngest Pole Winner: Jeff Gordon (08/09/1998 - 27 years, 0 months, 5 days)

Oldest Pole Winner: Morgan Shepherd (08/13/1989 - 47 years, 10 months, 1 days)

Most Wins: 4 - Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart

Most Poles: 3 - Mark Martin, Dale Earnhardt

Most Top 5s: 12 - Mark Martin

Most Top 10s: 16 - Mark Martin

Most Lead Changes: 14 - 8/11/1991 & 8/15/2011

Fewest Lead Changes: 0 - 8/4/1957

Most Leaders: 12 - 8/13/1995

Fewest Leaders: 1 - 8/4/1957

Most Cautions: 8 - 8/14/1988 and 8/12/2007

Fewest Cautions: 0 - 7/18/1965

Most Caution Laps: 36, 8/14/1988

Few Caution Laps: 0, 7/18/1965

Most Finishers on a lead lap: 34, 8/14/2005

Fewest Finishers on a lead lap: 2, Twice most recently 7/18/1965

Most Running at the Finish: 40 - 8/10/2003

Fewest Running at the Finish: 11, 7/18/1965

Most Laps Led by a Race Winner: 83, Tony Stewart, 8/14/2005

Fewest Laps Led by a Race Winner: 4, Ricky Rudd, 8/14/1988

Most Wins by Manufacturer: 16 - Chevy

Bogaczyk Joins The Glen as Corporate Sales Coordinator: Lock Haven University graduate and Tioga, Pa. native, Stephanie Bogaczyk joins the Watkins Glen International staff as the Corporate Sales Coordinator as announced on Monday. The addition of Bogaczyk to the Sales Team highlights a variety of changes the WGI administration will see in the New Year. Bogaczyk will be responsible for managing the legendary road courses’ portfolio of corporate partners, coordinating corporate partner events and developing corporate sales materials. She will also assist with Watkins Glen International’s Fan Ambassador program. Most recently with IMG Academies in Bradenton, Fla., Bogaczyks’ experience with the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) in Athlete Services during the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games as well as an internship with the Elmira Jackals will aid in her transition to The Glen. Among the changes the Sales Department will see with the New Year underway include current staff members obtaining additional responsibilities and changing roles within The Glen’s administrative office.
Mike Eckert will transition from Senior Account Executive to Manager, Partnership Sales. A member of the WGI staff since May 2006, Eckert will focus on establishing new business sponsorship sales while fostering existing relationships.
Mike Evranian, formerly Group Sales Manager, will develop new and expand current business revenue streams as the Manager, Business Development. Previously with Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, Calif., Evranian has been with The Glen since 2008.
Rob Murphy will continue to oversee hospitality during all major event weekends at Watkins Glen International as the Corporate Sales Executive. Murphy, an Account Executive with WGI since November 2010, will be responsible for developing relationships and expanding WGI’s corporate sales opportunities through group tickets as well as hospitality assets.
Tickets for the 2012 race season at Watkins Glen International are on sale now! Fans can purchase their tickets and camping by contacting the WGI ticket office at 866.461.RACE(7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(1-10-2012)

SAFER Installation Continues at Rockingham Speedway: The second phase of Steel and Foam Energy Reduction (SAFER) barriers is underway at Rockingham Speedway in advance of the April 15, 2012 running of the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Good Sam Club Roadside Assistance Carolina 200. When complete, this installation will encase the south and north ends of the speedway (turns one and two and turns three and four, respectively) in the force absorbing barriers. For the first phase, crews installed SAFER barriers along the inside backstretch wall in October 2011 before the American 200 and Polar Bear 150. NASCAR requires the technology at any facility at which it sanctions an event in its top-three National Touring Series - Sprint Cup, the Nationwide Series and the Camping World Truck Series. Commonly referred to as "soft walls," SAFER barriers are designed to absorb a portion of the energy in a crash, lessening the impact on the driver. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the speedway office at 855.NC.ROCKS or visit online at rockinghamspeedway.com.(Rockingham Speedway)(1-10-2002)

Family Camping Expanding at Watkins Glen: Watkins Glen International announced that due to demand and fan feedback, the family camping area that was introduced during the 2011 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend will expand in 2012. The popular area will nearly double in size and continue to feature reserved weekend campsites while offering a quieter, more laid back and family friendly experience. This camping option will only be available during the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at The Glen event weekend, August 9-12.
Just a short walk from the McDonald’s Family Grandstand and Kids’ Zone, guests staying in Family Camping can expect strict enforcement of the standard quiet hours (11:00 PM – 6:00 AM) and more regular patrols by WGI staff and security. The family camping area features non-trackside reserved sites located just outside the East Tunnel along the backstretch of the historic road course. There are a limited number of sites available and at the advanced sale price of $225, which is the same as any non-trackside reserved campsite elsewhere around the historic road course, they will go quickly.
. More infor about tickets for the 2012 race season at Watkins Glen International by calling the WGI ticket office at 866.461.RACE (7223) or logging on to www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(12-26-2011)

Watkins Glen driver donors to Food Bank: Over the course of the last week, Watkins Glen International has provided a little extra incentive for residents of the Twin Tiers to support the Food Bank of the Southern Tier and the response has been remarkable. Starting on December 13, any person that made a donation of at least $5 to the Food Bank received a voucher for one free Thunder Road Tour and over the course of the next seven days the promotion resulted in nearly $900 being donated to the hunger-relief organization. A total of 100 vouchers, each a $25 value, were distributed and will allow the recipients to challenge the twists and turns of The Soul of American Road Racing in their own vehicles during the 2012 season. The Thunder Road Tours provide fans with the opportunity to take three placed laps around the legendary road course. All vouchers distributed through the Food Bank of the Southern Tier will be honored beginning Monday, April 23, through the end of the 2012 season at The Glen. Fans are encouraged to verify availability and times prior to their arrival by calling The Shop at 607.535.2338. Tickets for the 2012 race season at Watkins Glen International are on sale now! Fans can purchase their tickets and camping by contacting the WGI ticket office at 866.461.RACE(7223) or visiting the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(12-25-2011)

Watkins Glen teams up with Food Bank for Holidays: Watkins Glen International is encouraging residents of the Twin Tiers to get into the spirit of giving this holiday season and is even providing a little incentive. In partnership with the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, The Glen is offering a voucher for one free Thunder Road Tour to any person that makes a donation of $5 or more to the hunger-relief organization between Tuesday, December 13, and the close of business on Tuesday, December 20. “The Food Bank of the Southern Tier plays such a huge role in hunger-relief for our area and we are thrilled to be partnering with them during the holidays,” said Michael Printup, President of Watkins Glen International. “Their ability to reach so many people throughout the region and the positive impact they have on their lives is truly remarkable. I invite all of our great fans to do their part to support this incredible organization and look forward to seeing them at The Glen for their Thunder Road Tours in 2012.” More info at theglen.com.(12-19-2011)

Watkins Glen helps spread Christmas cheer, tickets on sale: One of the most popular activities during the holiday season is driving throughout the Southern Tier looking at the beautiful light displays that celebrate this special time of year. In completion of its pledge in 2010, Watkins Glen International presented a $500 donation to Charlie and Debbie Santi of Horseheads, NY. The donation allowed the Santis to add more to their annual Christmas display that is a mainstay of the area. The display was vandalized following Christmas 2010. A tradition for the Santi family, the display was started by Debbie’s late mother, Loretto Chapman, numerous years ago and continues as a tribute to her.
“I really cannot thank Watkins Glen International enough for their donation,” said Charlie Santi. “A lot of people stop to see our display every year so it seems to mean a lot to the community. We enjoy putting it up and are really excited to be able to make it even bigger this Christmas because of WGI’s support.”
The $500 donation allowed Santi to purchase an inflatable Frosty the Snowman that illuminates at night, several golden reindeer and hundreds of additional lights. The full display is near completion and will be up through the New Year. In addition to the extensive light display, Santa Claus will be making stops at the Santi household every Friday, Saturday and Sunday between now and Christmas. Families can swing by 6 Hickory Grove Road in Horseheads between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. during those days to meet Santa and enjoy a candy cane.
Tickets for the 2012 season at Watkins Glen International will go on sale to the general public on Monday, December 5. Fans won’t want to miss the chance to SAVE up to $15 when they purchase their tickets in advance to experience some of the best racing, fastest cars and finest wine in the world. Fans can learn more about the upcoming race season by calling the WGI ticket office at 866.461.RACE (7223) or logging onto the official website. www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(12-4-2011)

Become a Watkins Glen International Fan Ambassador: Watkins Glen International is once again in search of passionate and dedicated fans who are interested in becoming a part of the WGI extended family as Fan Ambassadors. Launched in 2011, the program provides fans with the unique opportunity to show their support of the legendary road course. Those interested have the chance to obtain a behind-the-scenes look at all of the events held at The Glen during the 2012 season while sharing their enthusiasm with fellow fans throughout event weekends. Fan Ambassadors will have the opportunity to join the WGI staff in a variety of roles and handle a wide range of duties, including, but not limited to: escorting corporate partners and VIP guests on garage and pit tours, greet guests and provide assistance in The Glen Club as well as other hospitality areas, assist pace car ride participants, assist pre- and post-race ceremonies in Gatorade Victory Lane as well as much more! This is the best opportunity for fans to become part of the fun and excitement during every event weekend at Watkins Glen International without being in the stands. Ambassador’s will also have a chance to enjoy a variety of exclusive incentives including, but not limited to, weekend admission to all WGI events, receiving track press releases thus being some of the first people notified of the happenings at The Glen, event polo’s, appreciation parties, and special event access such as cold pit passes. Fan Ambassadors are needed, although not required, at the three largest 2012 events at Watkins Glen International, including: Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen, June 29-July 1; Finger Lakes Wine Festival presented by Yancey’s Fancy New York’s Artisan Cheese, July 13-15 and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at The Glen, August 9-11.
Fans interested in joining the WGI team as part of the Fan Ambassador program must fill out an application and participate in an interview process, more info and to download an application, go to theglen.com.(12-1-2011)

Companies awarded contracts to build new Watkins Glen grandstands: Watkins Glen International has confirmed three locally-based contractors to aid the legendary road course in its most recent installment of capital improvements. It is a part of the $1.5 million plan to replace the Ninety, McDonald’s Family and Red, White, and Blue Grandstands in advance of the 2012 season. The project is in its early stages and, once completed, it will add approximately 2,000 seats and provide fans with new perspectives of The Glen. A trio of local companies has been selected to aid in the demolition and construction of each grandstand. E&D Specialty Stands, Inc. returns to Watkins Glen International for the second consecutive season to install bleachers once again. Based in North Collins, NY, E&D will excavate and install all of the foundations. The Ninety and McDonald’s Family Grandstands will be removed by Swarthout Recycling. Swarthout, out of Beaver Dams, is responsible for complete removal of all wooden planks, steel and foundations from the existing bleachers. The wooden planks and steel will both be recycled and reused in other projects handled by Swarthout. Nearby Hunt Engineers will aid Watkins Glen International in grading and developing a Storm Water Pollution Plan that meets the DEC requirements throughout the entire project. Both the McDonald’s Family and Ninety Grandstands have already been demolished and the contract for the Red, White, and Blue is expected to be awarded shortly. The foundation for the McDonald’s Family Grandstand has been poured with construction of the frame expected to start in the coming weeks.
Tickets for the 2012 race season at Watkins Glen International go on sale this December. Fans can learn more about the upcoming race season by calling the WGI ticket office at 866.461.RACE(7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(11-30-2011)

Watkins Glen teams up with local school to support reading: Watkins Glen Elementary (WGE) School students are ready to Read For Speed following the kick-off assembly that was held in the main auditorium at Watkins Glen High School last Friday morning [Oct 28th]. Watkins Glen International mascot Max Traxx participated in the student reading assembly held to excite students about their participation in Read for Speed throughout the school year. The program has been a key part of the legendary road course's community involvement since 2005. It is paired with the school's Accelerated Reader Program which permits students and parents to track their progress throughout the school year. Read for Speed starts for the second through fourth graders of WGE today and will continue until May 18 when student and teacher winners will be acknowledged for their school-year long accomplishments. The second phase of the program which involves the pre-K, kindergarten and first-grade students is set to begin on February 21 and also end on May 18.
The Glen will support the program as students reach milestones throughout the school year. Max Traxx is expected to make a few more visits to the school accompanying Principal Weeden to classrooms throughout Watkins Glen Elementary, distributing prizes to students who are the fastest readers. The grand prize to the "fastest" readers at the end of the school year will be four tickets to either the Sahlen's Six Hours of The Glen, June 29 - July 1, or the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at The Glen, August 9 - 12, weekends. The program also welcomes back corporate sponsors Friendly's at the Arnot Mall in Big Flats, NY, Johnny's Bowling Lanes in Watkins Glen, NY, and McDonald's to support the program with various gift certificates that will be presented throughout the year.
All students participating in this year's installment of Read for Speed will also have the opportunity to design a bookmark. Two winners will be selected from the entrants, one acknowledged for the best design and an additional random winner will each receive gift certificates to The Shop. The design winner will then have their artwork used for a bookmark that will be distributed to the entire school.
Read for Speed will feature a "Pit Stop" in April when Watkins Glen International will host an event for all of the elementary school students. Max Traxx will most certainly be there as will the Official Pace Car of Watkins Glen International and members of the WGI staff.
Tickets for the 2012 race season at Watkins Glen International go on sale December 5. Fans can learn more about the upcoming race season by calling the WGI ticket office at 866.461.RACE(7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(11-8-2011)

More grandstands to be replaced at Watkins Glen: Watkins Glen International was a hotbed of activity leading into and during the 2011 season as a sweeping $3.1 million capital improvement project made extensive changes to the legendary road course. The 2012 season promises to be another busy year at The Glen, both on and off the track. The International Speedway Corporation Board of Directors (BOD) has approved approximately $1.5 million of funding to replace three more grandstands at WGI. This latest capital improvement project will bring the amount invested into The Soul of American Road Racing since 2001 to just over $30 million.
The latest round of capital improvements will replace three grandstands – the Ninety, located on the outside of Turn 1, as well as the Red, White and Blue, and McDonald’s Family Grandstands which are located at the bottom and top of the famed Esses, respectively. All three have wooden bleacher seats and will be replaced by metal structures that match the four grandstands that were built during the 2011 season. The completion of this project will add approximately 2,000 seats and mean that every grandstand, with the exception of Pit Terrace, has been replaced since the beginning of the 2005 season.
The Glen has been undergoing a series of major capital improvements over the past 10 years including replacing four grandstands, building a new Glen Club and adding permanent showers in 2011, the addition of SAFER barriers and extended run-off areas in several turns in 2010, the new media center in 2008, track repaving in 2006, a new grandstand along the front stretch in 2005, and an upgrade to the garage and an improved water and sewer system that included the additions of showers in the Gate 1 campground from 2001 thru 2004. (All projects are listed according to year they were completed).(WGI)(9-28-2011)

NASCAR returns to Watkins Glen August 9-12, 2012: The Glenora Wine Cellars U.S. Vintage Grand Prix presented by Welliver marked the finale of the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International and the historic road course is already looking ahead to 2012. WGI is proud to announce that during the weekend of August 9-12, The Soul of American Road Racing will host the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series for the 27th consecutive time on Sunday, August 12. The Zippo 200 NASCAR Nationwide and Canadian Tire 200 GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series races will both return on Saturday, August 11. Moved from the traditional weekend a season ago, this is the second-consecutive year that Watkins Glen International is set to host NASCAR the second weekend of August.(WGI)(9-15-2011)

Andretti & Milliken join Legends of the Glen: Watkins Glen International announced that William “Bill” Milliken and Mario Andretti have joined the Legends of the Glen. Among the first drivers to have raced at The Glen, Milliken was also one of the first racing committee members for the competitions held in Watkins Glen. He left his mark on the original 6.6-mile street course during the first race on October 2, 1948, rolling his car into a turn that has been known as “Milliken’s Corner” ever since. Milliken’s largest impact on The Glen, however, might have come off of the track as he was instrumental in the planning and designing of both the temporary and permanent tracks. His use of sweeping turns and long straight aways throughout the course that allow for high speeds has resulted in Watkins Glen International becoming known as the super speedway of road courses.
Andretti had modest success on the track at Watkins Glen in winning the 1972 Six Hours endurance race and claiming the pole for United State Grand Prix in 1968 and 1977 but his true impact came off of the track as well. His popularity was a huge draw that brought a record setting crowd to Watkins Glen in 1968. His appeal continued to bring fans in large numbers to Upstate New York and was truly a key contributor in building The Glen’s worldwide popularity and recognition. Andretti is one of two drivers to win races in Formula 1, IndyCar, World Sportscar Championship and NASCAR as well as a four-time IndyCar National and Formula 1 World Champion.(WGI)(9-12-2011)

Watkins Glen donates extra food: Watkins Glen International announced that the extra food from the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend was donated to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier on the afternoon of Monday, August 15. Established in 1981, the Food Bank of the Southern Tier has been serving the citizens of Broome, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga and Tompkins Counties for the past 30 years. This opportunity allowed The Glen to give back, once again, to its local community while fulfilling the responsibilities of the national campaign developed by the AARP Foundation. The donation of over 3,000 pounds of food was made with the assistance of Americrown, catering and concession subsidiary of parent company International Speedway Corporation (ISC), helping to nourish the 11,000 people served weekly at the Food Bank. Twenty-five percent of whom are senior citizens. The Drive to End Hunger has received donations from other ISC tracks, including Daytona, Homestead, Kansas, Martinsville, Michigan, Phoenix and Richmond.(WGI )(8-20-2011)

More SAFER at Watkins Glen? NASCAR is talking to officials at Watkins Glen International about adding SAFER barriers and reconfiguring the angle of walls in key areas around the road course following Monday's Sprint Cup race in which there were two violent crashes. The governing body also is discussing the situation with engineers at the University of Nebraska that designed the SAFER (Steel and Foam Energy Reduction) barriers about what can be done to improve safety. The concerns came from two wrecks. The first involved #11-Denny Hamlin crashing head on into a tire barrier early. The one that brought the most concern came on the final lap in Turn 2. #51-Boris Said got into the back of David Ragan's #6 Ford, which bounced off a steel and tire barrier into David Reutimann's car, sending the #00 upside down into another barrier with parts flying everywhere. "We learn something every day on the possibility of what can happen,'' NASCAR president Mike Helton said on Tuesday from the NASCAR Hall of Fame where he announced plans to move the induction ceremony to January 20. "When you see something unusual like that you have to study it and see what's the better circumstance for that not to happen again. There are some areas, the engineers from the University of Nebraska have told us, where the SAFER barriers could be worse. We just have to make sure we do it right.'' Helton said NASCAR and the University of Nebraska are taking a hard look at where SAFER barriers could be beneficial and where re-aligning the angle of the walls will prevent cars from being thrown back onto the track. "There's some areas where a SAFER barrier isn't the best answer, particularly on a road course because of the uniqueness of going left and right,'' Helton said. "So far, at least from what we've been told, there are some areas that may not. That doesn't mean all the areas that need to be covered are covered, but SAFER barriers are not always the perfect answer for a situation.''(ESPN)(8-17-2011)

Twin Tiers Idol winner to sing National Anthem at Watkins Glen: Twin Tiers Idol winner, Taylor Acorn of Wellsboro, PA, will perform the American national anthem prior to the start of the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen Sunday, August 14. Her rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner" will be the climax of pre-race ceremonies leading up to the drop of the green flag on the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at 1:00 p.m. The 17-year old Acorn will not only be performing for the almost 100,000 fans in attendance at Watkins Glen International on Sunday but also a national TV audience on ESPN. This will provide an excellent opportunity for her to prepare for an audition on the 2012 season of the hit TV show American Idol. She received an all-expenses paid trip to the audition in Houston, TX, for winning this year's Twin Tiers Idol competition and will depart on August 26. The Twin Tiers Idol competition started with 40 contestants on June 8 and Acorn survived six rounds over the course of eight weeks before being named the winner on July 27.(WGI)(8-10-2011)

Concert at Watkins Glen: Fans can look forward to once again rocking out to several great bands on the Red Cat Summer Stage during the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend, August 11-14. The concert, featuring Marrakesh Express, The Eric Tessmer Band and Elephant Mountain, takes place on Friday, August 12 and admission is covered by the purchase of a weekend ticket. Fans should plan on being inside the Turn 10 Village, located behind the new Turn 10 Grandstand, by 7:30 pm so they do not miss a minute of the fun. The concert on the Red Cat Summer Stage kicks off with the Indiana-based Crosby, Stills & Nash tribute act Marrakesh Express. Taking the stage next is The Eric Tessmer Band, of Austin, TX. Tessmer has been putting his own stamp on Texas style rock and blues as a three piece original band. Closing out the show is Central New York’s own Elephant Mountain, from Syracuse. Elephant Mountain features members of the band Brand New Sin, which preformed at The Glen in 2007. Elephant Mountain has the powerful vocals of Joe Altier performing evocative lyrics and a style all their own.
Tickets for the final two events at Watkins Glen International are on sale now! Fans can order their tickets or get more information about the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend, August 11-14, or U.S. Vintage Grand Prix by calling the WGI ticket office at 866.461.RACE (7223) or visiting the official website www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(8-9-2011)

Travel Channel’s Adam Richman will serve as Grand Marshal at Watkins Glen: Watkins Glen International announced that Travel Channel’s “Man vs. Food Nation” Adam Richman will serve as Grand Marshal of the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen on Sunday, August 14, 2011. Serving as the race’s Grand Marshal, Richman will give the iconic command, “Gentlemen, start your engines” prior to the green flag.
“Man vs. Food Nation” airs on Wednesdays at 9:00 PM on the Travel Channel; and is the evolution of Richman’s original series “Man vs. Food”. After three years of sampling delicious food across America, Adam's heard the rallying call from the show’s “Nation” of fans...they want in on the action. NASCAR fans will have the opportunity to join the “Nation” and take on food challenges onsite throughout the day. Tickets for the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International are on sale now! Fans can order their tickets or get more information by calling the WGI ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or visiting the official website www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(7-20-2011)

Rock Out Before NASCAR Rolls Out at The Glen: Rock & Roll and NASCAR will roar into Central New York during the first two weeks of August beginning with The Zippo Rock Pit Stop at Water Street Music Hall in Rochester, NY on Friday, August 5. This special event offers fans of both music and motorsports a peek into what happens off track during NASCAR's annual visit to legendary Watkins Glen International. The Zippo Rock Pit Stop will get the night rocking less than one week before the green flag falls on the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend, August 11-14. Not only is this a great opportunity to experience the soundtrack to NASCAR, it is also a great chance to meet some of the staff of The Glen while registering to win NASCAR tickets, driver autographed merchandise, free band merchandise and even a large piece of Daytona International Speedway's past. The Zippo Rock Pit Stop, hosted by Watkins Glen International and sponsored by Zippo Manufacturing, will highlight three different bands with three distinct styles. Doors open at 7:00 PM. Tickets for the Zippo Rock Pit Stop will be available in advance for $10 or at the door for $15, thanks to Water St. Music Hall. Show details and advanced tickets can be found here.(Watkins Glen)(7-19-2011)

Super Ball IX at Watkins Glen in July: For the first time in almost 40 years, legendary Watkins Glen International will host a major music festival that will feature a national recording artist. The rock band PHISH will host their 9th multiday festival, Super Ball IX, at The Soul of American Road Racing this July 1st thru 3rd. The Glen earned a place in United States musical history as the site of the famed Summer Jam that featured headlining artists The Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers and The Band. Reportedly attracting over 600,000 people to Schuyler County in 1973, Summer Jam held the Guinness Book world record for the largest outdoor concert ever held in the U.S. Super Ball IX will be the first time that Phish has ever performed at Watkins Glen International or any other motorsports facility promising a unique experience for the band’s dedicated fans. The 3-day event weekend will feature a series of performances by the New England-based band along with numerous activities, attractions and art installations. Tickets start at $200 and include admission for the entire weekend as well as convenient onsite camping. Additional camping and travel packages will also be available. For additional details, visit www.superballix.com.(WGI)(6-29-2011)

Fans can plan their day at Stewart-Hamilton car swap: The schedule for the Mobil 1 Car Swap at legendary Watkins Glen International on Tuesday, June 14 has been finalized, allowing fans to make their plans for the historic event. Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton and two-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion Tony Stewart are set to get the day rolling at approximately 11:30 am. Gate 4 opens for fans interested in attending this momentous and free event at 9:00 am. The complete schedule of events is available at www.TheGlen.com. Admission and parking are free to all those in attendance and fans have the opportunity to watch the Mobil 1 Car Swap from a variety of locations. Tickets for the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International are on sale now! Fans can order their tickets or get more information by calling the WGI ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or visiting the official website TheGlen.com.(WGI)(6-12-2011)

Stewart-Hamilton car swap at Watkins Glen open to the public: Watkins Glen International announced that the upcoming Mobil 1 Car Swap at The Glen on Tuesday, June 14, will be open to all spectators. Admission and parking will both be free for fans of all ages and there will be numerous locations for fans to watch NASCAR Sprint Cup Series star Tony Stewart and Formula 1™ World Champion Lewis Hamilton take laps in their own and then each others’ cars during the event.
“It has been our goal from the beginning to make this historic event open to our tens of thousands of fans and we are thrilled to make this announcement,” said Michael Printup, president of Watkins Glen International. “There has been no question as to how badly our fans want to attend the Mobil 1 Car Swap at The Glen. They have overwhelmed us with their emails, phone calls, and comments through social media and it is this incredible passion that makes our fans the best in motorsports.”
Beginning at 11:00 am/et, fans will witness Hamilton take laps in both his team Vodafone McLaren Mercedes MP4-23 and Stewart’s #14 Mobil 1/Office Depot Chevrolet Impala. Stewart also will take a spin in his #14 Mobil 1/Office Deport Chevrolet Impala before climbing into Hamilton’s MP4-23 for his first-ever laps behind the wheel of an F1 car.
More info at theglen.com .(WGI)(5-24-2011)

All Construction Projects Still On-Pace at Watkins Glen: Construction continues to surge forward at Watkins Glen International as the $3 million capital improvement project moves closer and closer to completion. Crews have worked diligently to battle through constant rain and cooler than normal temperatures over the last month to ensure that the entire project remains on-schedule. All of the capital improvements announced in December 2010 are on-target to be completed in time for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen August 11-14.
The Green, Turn 10, and Turn 11 Grandstands are all at least 90-percent complete. Crews from E&D Specialty Stands Incorporated, out of North Collins NY, have completed most of the framework, seating, and the “flatwork” under each of the three new grandstands. The “flatwork” includes removing the topsoil and any gravel that was disturbed during the construction and replacing fabric, gravel and some of the paved walkways. The steel frame and seat planks are in place for the Silver grandstand, making it approximately 65-percent complete.
The Crown Royal Club is shooting up as quickly as the flowers and tree buds throughout the Finger Lakes Region. The Elmira, NY-based Edger Enterprises, Inc. has completed the entire outside frame and the roof installation is currently in progress. In the next few weeks, crews are anticipating the concrete blocks that will make-up the retaining walls to arrive. Located in the same spot as the original Glen Club before it burned down 2007, at the top of the famed Esses, Crown Royal Club guests will have an outstanding view from the full deck on the outside of the club come August.
Due to the consistent rainy weather over the past few weeks, lighting and water improvements in the Gate One GEICO Caveman camping area have been slowed, but are set to kick back into high gear when sunnier skies return. The 50 planned lighting poles have been placed by Syracuse, NY-based Syracuse Signal Systems but due the weather, the wiring and lights have not yet been installed. The approximately 20 water hydrants that will be located throughout the area are still expected to be in place by mid-June.
The two new permanent showers in the GEICO Reserved Campgrounds are also coming together quickly. The old water storage tanks that were located under the two bathroom facilities have been removed, new shower drainage has been installed, the new floors have been poured, and the partitions for the actual showers are being built. The VIP Pit Road RV area behind Pit Terrace has been graded and paving is expected to begin as soon as possible, weather permitting. Tickets for the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen international are on sale now! Fans may order their tickets or get more information about the 2011 race season at WGI by calling the ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(5-18-2011)

Buy Watkins Glen Tix, get flowers for Mom: Mother’s Day is a very special occasion that allows everyone to show their mom how appreciated they are; but don’t you deserve something for being so thoughtful in return? Watkins Glen International says the answer is a most definite YES and, thanks to Tropical Images, has a great offer for race fans. Any fan that purchases tickets for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend, August 11-14, between Wednesday, April 27 and Friday, May 6 will have the ability to send a dozen roses to mom in time for Mother’s Day! The deadline for taking advantage of this great offer is fast approaching and Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 8, so act now! Fans looking to treat their mother to beautiful roses and treating themselves to a full weekend of racing excitement need to log on to The Glen’s official website, www.TheGlen.com. Prior to entering the website, a special page will open which will include the link for this great offer. Simply click the link and follow the onscreen directions to make your ticket purchase and supply the address for the recipient of the flowers.(WGI)(4-30-2011)

Improvements at Watkins Glen moving forward: Despite constant weather changes ranging from snow to rain to sunshine, Watkins Glen International has been a hotbed of activity. The capital improvements project announced in December 2010 has kicked into high gear with construction currently taking place on three grandstands, new lighting poles, and the addition of new showers in two locations. The contracts for all projects to-date have been awarded to New York-based companies keeping the financial benefits inside the state and supporting the regional economy. The entire capital improvement project is scheduled to be completed prior to the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend, August 11-14.(WGI)(4-6-2011)

Three promotions at Watkins Glen: Watkins Glen International announced that three members of the marketing team have been recognized for their contributions to the success of the legendary road course over the last few seasons. Brett Powell and Ryan Lake, both Horseheads High School graduates, and Mike Eckert, an Elmira Free Academy graduate, were each promoted with their new responsibilities taking effect immediately. Powell is entering his seventh season at WGI while Lake and Eckert are about to begin their sixth.
Powell, currently an Ithaca, NY resident, has been promoted from director of fan experience to senior director of marketing and fan experience. In his new role, he will oversee consumer integration, public communications, and the 360 degree fan experience at The Glen.
Lake, formerly the public relations manager, has been promoted to senior manager of public relations. In his new role, he will manage and supervise all aspects of the public relations department, develop the year-long public relations plan for the track, manage the media center during event weekends, act as the liaison between WGI and the media, and assist Powell in other areas of communications.
Eckert moves from his former position as corporate sales executive to his new position as the senior account executive.
Tickets for the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International are on sale NOW! Fans can order their tickets or get more information about the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International by calling the ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(2-4-2011)

Watkins Glen Fan Ambassador Program Applications Due by Jan 18th: Time is running out for fans to submit their applications to join the WGI team as a Fan Ambassador for the upcoming season. The deadline is Tuesday, January 18 which is this coming Tuesday! As part of the program, fans will actually become part of the WGI team and have the chance to not only get closer to the action but spread their enthusiasm to others that visit The Glen each year. Fan that are interested in applying need to fill-out an application which can be downloaded by going to www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(1-15-2011)

Watkins Glen donates to fix Christmas Display: Watkins Glen International has long recognized its position as a community leader and the legendary road course is getting into the holiday spirit with a very special gift. WGI is proud to announce that it will donate $500 to Charlie and Debbie Santi of Horseheads, NY, to help them repair and rebuild their extensive Christmas display that was vandalized earlier this week. The display was started by Debbie’s late mother, Loretto Chapman, numerous years ago and was taken up by the Santis as a tribute to Chapman following her passing in 1995.
“I was truly touched by the Santi’s story as I drive past the display each day plus the fact that my own children have enjoyed viewing it during the holiday season,” said Michael Printup, president of Watkins Glen International. “This family has spent their own money to provide a tribute to Debbie’s late mother and, in turn, has given our community a wonderful display everyone can enjoy during the holidays. I hope some of our fans will join us in helping Charlie and Debbie not only repair but improve something that has become a staple of our area during this time of year.”
“I first want to thank Watkins Glen International for this very generous donation,” said Charlie Santi. “This will not only help cover the cost of the repairs we have already made but also allow us to expand our display next year. For several years I have hoped to add a full nativity scene and upgrade our sound system so as to play real Christmas music instead of the computer-generated music we have been using and this donation will assist in achieving our goal.”
The vandalism took place sometime between the late night on Tuesday, December 28, and the early morning on Wednesday, December 29. The damage included the slicing and subsequent deflating of a large inflatable penguin, knocking over and rearranging of reindeer, tearing down of Christmas lights, and toppling an antenna. Charlie Santi estimated that the couple of spent over $2,500 of their own money in the building of the display to the size it was prior to the vandalism. Anyone interested in making a donation can send them to Display Donations, Attn: Charlie and Debbie Santi, 6 Hickory Grove Rd, Horseheads, NY 14845.
This is just the latest example of the extensive donations made by WGI to groups and organizations located in Upstate New York. The list of organizations that have received donations in 2010 includes, but is not limited to, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), Hillside Work-Scholarship Connection, American Red Cross, and Corning West High School Marching Band.
Tickets for the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International are on sale NOW! Fans can learn more about the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International by calling the ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(1-1-2011)

New Family Camping area at Watkins Glen: In response to fan feedback and requests, Watkins Glen International is proud to announce a new family camping area for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend, August 11-14, 2011. Through the use of surveys and fan emails, families have increasingly requested an area that provides a quieter and more laid back experience. This is just the latest in a string of actions taken by WGI to respond to the needs of its fans which also includes $20 grandstand seats for kids 18 years of age and under and a sweeping capital improvements project highlighted by new grandstands and permanent showers on the infield.
The new family camping area will feature reserved non-trackside sites and be located just outside the East Tunnel along the backstretch. Fans can expect their experience to be one of stricter enforcement of the standard quiet hours (11:00 PM – 6:00 AM) and more regular patrols by WGI staff and security. There are a limited number of sites now available and the advanced sale price is $225, which is the same as any non-trackside reserved campsite elsewhere around the historic road course. Fans that are interested in either moving their current site or purchasing a new one in the family camping area will need to call 866-461-RACE(7223) to place their order.
Tickets for the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International are on sale NOW! Fans can order their tickets or get more information about the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International by calling the ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(12-21-2010)

Special Kids Rate at Watkins Glen: Tickets to the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen at Watkins Glen International are considered one of the best values in motorsports and families will find it even more affordable than ever to attend NASCAR’s only visit to New York State, August 11-14, 2011. The price for kids ages 18 and under to sit in grandstands now starts at ONLY $20 which means kids can attend the four-day weekend for only $5 a day! Any renewal customers that have already purchased their tickets are encouraged to call 866-461-RACE with their questions; tickets go on-sale to the general public on Friday, November 26. Tickets for the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International go on sale November 26, 2010. Fans can learn more about the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International by calling the ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(12-6-2010)

Emergency texting available to race patrons: International Speedway Corporation (ISC) has partnered with InStadiumSolutions to implement a text-message based communication system at all of its 12 motorsports facilities. The service was introduced last weekend during the NASCAR Nationwide and Sprint Cup races at Darlington Raceway. The system allows fans to communicate with the racetrack's command post if assistance is needed inside the facility. The technology was tested at Homestead-Miami Speedway last November during the final weekend of the NASCAR season. Instructions will be posted throughout each racetrack and will be broadcast through audio and video public announcements. Besides Darlington and Homestead-Miami, ISC owns and/or operates Daytona, Talladega, Michigan, Richmond, Auto Club Speedway, Kansas, Phoenix, Chicago, Martinsville and Watkins Glen. The Fan Text Messaging Service is also being used by several professional and college teams, as well as at events such as the Super Bowl, BCS National Championship and World Baseball Classic.(Associated Press)(5-14-2009)

There are four race tracks the Sprint Cup Series currently races at that #48-Jimmie Johnson has not won a Sprint Cup race at:
Watkins Glen: 0 for 9 with a best finish of 3rd in 8/2007
Michigan: 0 for 18 with a best finish of 3rd in 8/2007
Homestead: 0 for 10 with a best finish of 2nd in 11/2004 & 11/2010
Chicago: 0 for 9 with a best finish of 2nd in 7/2004 & 7/2008
plus Johnson ran five races at Rockingham Speedway and didn't win there.(11-21-2010)

2010 Race Winner: #42-Juan Pablo Montoya, 91.960, started 3rd

Race Record: Mark Martin, 103.900mph, 8/13/1995

Slowest Race Record: Kyle Petty, 50.879mph, August 1992

Youngest Winner: Kyle Busch (08/10/2008 - 23 years, 3 months, 8 days)

Oldest Winner: Geoffrey Bodine (08/11/1996 - 47 years, 3 months, 24 days)

2010 Pole Sitter: #99-Carl Edwards, 124.432 mph, finished 5th

Track Qualifying Record: Jeff Gordon, August 2003, 124.580mph

Worst Starting Spot to Win: Steve Park, August 2000, started 18th

Youngest Pole Winner: Jeff Gordon (08/09/1998 - 27 years, 0 months, 5 days)

Oldest Pole Winner: Morgan Shepherd (08/13/1989 - 47 years, 10 months, 1 days)

Most Wins: 4 - Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart

Most Poles: 3 - Mark Martin, Dale Earnhardt

Most Top 5s: 12 - Mark Martin

Most Top 10s: 16 - Mark Martin

Most Lead Changes: 14 - 8/11/1991

Fewest Lead Changes: 0 - 8/4/1957

Most Leaders: 12 - 8/13/1995

Fewest Leaders: 1 - 8/4/1957

Most Cautions: 8 - 8/14/1988 and 8/12/2007

Fewest Cautions: 0 - 7/18/1965

Most Caution Laps: 36, 8/14/1988

Few Caution Laps: 0, 7/18/1965

Most Finishers on a lead lap: 34, 8/14/2005

Fewest Finishers on a lead lap: 2, Twice most recently 7/18/1965

Most Running at the Finish: 40 - 8/10/2003

Fewest Running at the Finish: 11, 7/18/1965

Most Laps Led by a Race Winner: 83, Tony Stewart, 8/14/2005

Fewest Laps Led by a Race Winner: 4, Ricky Rudd, 8/14/1988

Most Wins by Manufacturer: 16 - Chevy

Watkins Glen to build 4 new grandstands: Fans will notice a wide range of changes at historic Watkins Glen International when they return in 2011 and all of them will further enhance their experience while at the legendary road course. The International Speedway Corporation Board of Directors has approved the funding for a sweeping capital improvements project that is highlighted by four new grandstands, a new Crown Royal Club, and permanent showers in the infield. The estimated cost of the project will be approximately $3 million and will be the largest fan investment into The Soul of American Road Racing. The most noticeable enhancement will be the addition of four new permanent grandstands in Turn 10, Turn 11, outside the track next to the pedestrian bridge, and the outside of Turn 1 next to the Ninety Grandstand. These new stands will replace the four temporary structures called the Turn 10, Turn 11, Green, and Silver Grandstands that are annually built for the NASCAR weekend; the new permanent grandstands will retain the same names.(WGI)(12-8-2010)

New carry-in policy at Watkins Glen: In an effort to respond to fan’s requests and further improve their race day experience, Watkins Glen International is proud to announce enhanced carry-in policies for all grandstands at the historic road course beginning in 2011. Fans that attend any event at WGI, including the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series and Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekends, will now be able to bring larger coolers and lightweight backpacks or daypacks to their grandstand seats.
Fans may now carry-in soft-sided coolers that measure no greater than 14 x 14 x 14 inches or 2,700 cubic inches – six times the size previously permitted. Coolers of this size typically have a removable plastic liner and are branded to hold 24 to 36 beverage cans. To ensure these items fit underneath grandstand seats and do not block walkways, coolers with telescoping handles and wheels will not be permitted. Safety improvements allow enhanced convenience for fans while continuing to provide a secure environment. Fan comfort and safety remains a top priority so all items carried into the Soul of American Road Racing will be subject to a thorough and complete search by security personnel prior to entering the ticket gates. Additionally, to make it more convenient for fans to carry additional items such as cameras, radio scanners and souvenirs, fans can now utilize lightweight backpacks or daypacks similar to those used by school students. As part of its standard policy, hard-sided coolers will not be allowed into the grandstand area. Tickets for the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International go on sale November 26, 2010. Fans can learn more about the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International by calling the ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(12-7-2010)

Watkins Glen offer New Zippo Ticket package: In an effort to provide fans with more value for their ticket purchase, Watkins Glen International has teamed up with long-time partner Zippo Manufacturing Company to give fans more bang for their buck during the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend, August 11-14. For only $95, fans can purchase the new Zippo Ticket Package that includes 4-day general admission access, a reserved seat in the Silver Grandstand on Sunday, view of a Sprint Vision Screen, and a special edition Zippo Lighter that is exclusive to this offer. Fans interested in purchasing this great new offer or upgrading their current Silver Grandstand tickets need to call 866-461-RACE and ask for the Zippo Ticket Package.
The Zippo Ticket Package is available only through July 21, 2011. During The Glen’s advance sales period, the Zippo Ticket Package is only $10 more than a standard Silver Grandstand ticket, and includes an exclusive limited edition Zippo lighter valued at approximately $30. This collectible Zippo lighter will not be available for purchase separate from this new package, and will be strictly limited to the number of Zippo Ticket Packages sold by July 21. Fans who take advantage of this offer will receive their event tickets in the mail, plus a certificate to be redeemed for the collectible lighter at the Zippo Hot Spot located on Manufacturers’ Row during the NASCAR event weekend. Fans can learn more about the 2011 race season at Watkins Glen International by calling the ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(Watkins Glen)(12-4-2010)

New Fan Ambassador Program at Watkins Glen: The passion and dedication of Watkins Glen International’s fans is unrivaled in motorsports and WGI is proud to announce a new way for them to show their support and love for the historic road course. The NEW Fan Ambassador Program will provide fans opportunities for a behind-the-scenes look at the exciting events held at The Soul of American Road Racing that have never before been available. Fans will actually become part of the WGI team and have the chance to not only get closer to the action but spread their enthusiasm to others that visit The Glen each year.
Fan Ambassadors will get a chance to help in numerous areas and handle a wide range of duties such as escorting corporate partners and VIP guests on tours through the garage and pit areas, greet guests and provide assistance in the Crown Royal Club and other hospitality areas, help make sure pace car rides during race weekends run smoothly, assist with monitoring pre-race ceremonies on pit road and the post-race celebrations in Gatorade Victory Lane, and much, much more. Fans will be required to volunteer a minimum of 5 hours each day during any of the following event weekends - the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen, June 3-5, Finger Lakes Wine Festival presented by Yancey’s Fancy New York’s Artisan Cheese, July 16-17, and Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 11-14. While there is work to be done, ambassador’s will have a chance to enjoy a variety of exclusive incentives including, but not limited to, weekend admission to all WGI events, receiving track press releases thus being some of the first people notified of the happenings at The Glen, event polo’s, appreciation parties, and special event access such as cold pit passes. There is no better way to become part of the fun and excitement during every race season at Watkins Glen International.
Fans that are interested in joining the WGI team as part of the program, go to theglen.com.(WGI)(12-2-2010)

Watkins Glen accepting nominations for Legends of the Glen until Nov 14th: The history of racing at Watkins Glen reached an impressive 62 years in 2010 and there are few people that know The Glen’s history better than the fans. In an attempt to tap into that extensive knowledge and allow fans to have an impact on the honoring of that history, Watkins Glen International is once again looking for fan nominations for the next class of the Legends of The Glen. Nominations can be submitted starting immediately until Sunday, November 14. The 2011 Class of the Legends of The Glen will be announced over the course of the 2011 season.
The Legends of The Glen was started in 2008 as part of the 60th anniversary of racing in Watkins Glen and continues to be awarded in honor of individuals that have made a significant impact on The Glen’s history. So far 12 people have been inducted in the program; Cameron and Jean Argetsinger, Jim Reisbeck, Phil Walters, Walter Hansgen, Graham Hill, Sir Jackie Stewart, Jim Clark, Al Holbert, Hurley Haywood, Mark Martin, and Tony Stewart. To make a nomination or for more info, go to TheGlen.com.(11-10-2010)

GEICO partners with ISC tracks on camping areas: International Speedway Corporation announced an unprecedented partnership with GEICO Insurance at seven of its premier racing facilities nationwide. Beginning in 2011, the five year deal will provide GEICO with promotional and entitlement rights for camping areas at: Daytona International Speedway; Darlington Raceway; Chicagoland Speedway; Homestead-Miami Speedway; Phoenix International Raceway; Talladega Superspeedway; and Watkins Glen International. Under the terms of the agreement, GEICO will receive on-site signage and branding.(ICS)(11-2-2010)

Watkins Glen race to move back a week in 2011: The excitement level surrounding the 25th consecutive running of NASCAR at The Glen is still climbing high and fans can already start making their plans for the 2011 event weekend. Watkins Glen International officials confirmed today that Juan Pablo Montoya will defend his title at The Soul of American Road Racing one week later in 2011, August 11-14. The announcement comes on the heels of a highly successful Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, including increased overall weekend attendance at the historic road course compared to 2009.(WGI)(8-12-2010)

Watkins Glen increases recycling efforts: Watkins Glen International has partnered with TOMRA to help provide bottle and can returns for recycling all over the racing facility for the 2010 Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 5-8. The Corning West High Marching Band is returning for the weekend to once again raise money through recycling to help fund their New Years’ Day trip to London, England. The Corning Painted Post “Band Aides” will be handing out information about the WGI recycling program throughout the race weekend.
TOMRA is a leading global provider of advanced solutions enabling recovery and recycling of materials. The international resource recycling company works out of Connecticut and is working with WGI to assist with the legendary road course’s recycling efforts during the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen event weekend.
The official recycling company of WGI, Swarthout, will once again be working diligently to promote the track’s Go Green efforts to reduce the event’s foot print on the enviro
nment. Swarthout will have their five cent redemption center running from 10am to 8pm Thursday through Sunday.
Tickets for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Zippo 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series and Crown Royal 200 GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series races, August 5-8, are still on-sale. Fans can purchase tickets by calling the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(8-6-2010)

McDonald’s and Watkins Glen renew partnership: McDonald’s and Watkins Glen International have renewed their partnership for the next three years which is great news for families. Not only does McDonald’s remain the official drive-thru restaurant of WGI but the family-friendly atmosphere of the McDonald’s Family Zone will continue to provide fun for children of all ages. The McDonald’s Family Grandstand offers a smoke and alcohol-free area for families to watch all of the racing action at an affordable price and the McDonald’s Kid Zone is home to games, inflatables, McDonald’s characters, and driver question and answer sessions. The kid zone will be open 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. on Friday, August 6, and Saturday, August 7, and then 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. on Sunday, August 8. While the McDonald’s Family Grandstand is sold-out the Kids Zone that is adjacent to that grandstand is still open and for free for any ticket holder. Fans can purchase tickets or learn more about the race weekend by calling the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(8-6-2010)

All You can eat package at Watkins Glen: Watkins Glen International has created the "All-You-Can-Eat" package that is good for a 4-day admission and hospitality on race day. The cost to upgrade from a standard Turn 11 Grandstand seat to the All-You-Can-Eat package is only six-dollars making it a great way for fans to catch all the action of NASCAR's 25th visit to The Glen, during the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at the Glen at an affordable price. The all-you-can-eat concession tent will be open 10:00 am - 12:00 pm on Sunday, August 8th to allow fans plenty of time to fill their stomachs and then head to their seats for the new 1:00 pm start time. The tent will be conveniently located just behind the Turn 11 Grandstand. Fans that have already purchased a ticket for the Turn 11 grandstand can call 866-461-RACE and add the all you-can-eat package for only $6.00. Fans can purchase tickets by calling the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(8-5-2010)

Bo Bice to perform National Anthem at Watkins Glen: National recording artist and former American Idol star Bo Bice will be on-hand to sing the American National Anthem leading up to the fall of the green flag of the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen just after 1:00 PM on Sunday, August 8. Bice will not only sing the American National anthem but will also perform a “surprise” concert during the weekend and take part in a Q&A with fans in The Bog Hospitality. The “surprise” concert will be a rare first at historic Watkins Glen International. The “surprise” is that the time, date, and location will not be officially released prior to the event weekend. Tickets for the entire 2010 season including the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 5-8, and Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen, July 2-4, weekends are on sale now! Fans can purchase tickets by calling the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(8-2-2010)

USA World Cup Title means $1 NASCAR tickets: Once every four years Americans and the entire world get swept up in World Cup fever and this year NASCAR fans will want to pay extra close attention to the results. If the United States can win its first World Cup title since 1950, a limited number of general admission tickets for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 5-8, will be only $1 – that’s right $1! In the event of an US tournament victory, a total of 2,010 tickets will be made available for purchase (4 per customer) and be ordered by calling 866-461-RACE. FIFA has the United States ranked #14 in the world going into the 2010 World Cup. The World Cup Championship Game will be taking place on July 11, a game all NASCAR and WGI fans will undoubtedly be hoping includes the United States! Tickets for the entire 2010 season including the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 5-8, and Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen, July 2-4, weekends are on sale now! Fans can purchase tickets by calling the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(6-15-2010)

Construction Currently Taking Place at Watkins Glen: The sound of engines roaring can be heard throughout Watkins Glen International these days but instead of stock cars, sports cars, or open-wheel cars making the noise, the sources are dump trucks, cement trucks, and bulldozers. Several projects are currently underway at multiple locations making The Soul of American Road Racing a very, very busy place. The new construction includes two new RV dumping stations, expanding the walkway leading from Gate 2 to the East Tunnel, and changes to several turns that were previously announced in January 2010.
The decision to add the RV dumping stations and expand the walkway came largely from fan feedback. WGI has long asked its fans to share their thoughts and opinions which has helped guide some of the improvements made throughout the legendary road course over the last several seasons. This year fans will find one of the new RV dumping stations next to the bathrooms just outside the West Tunnel as they head towards Gate 6 and the other in the middle of Gate 7 camping. The new stations are being built by Beaver Dams, NY-based R.L. Callahan Inc. and have already been attached to the sewer system with concrete foundations for each currently being poured. Once the stations are finished they, along with the one located outside the East Tunnel that was completed in 2005, will provide fans with three options for clearing their RV storage tanks before the leave the facility following an event weekend.
The road between Gate 2 and the East Tunnel is currently closed because an earth mover is covering newly installed drainage pipes that run the length of it. The gravel and dirt being backfilled over the new drainage will be leveled-off shortly in preparation for adding 10 ft of pavement to increase the width of the road. Prior to the installation of the expanded sidewalk, this area was often very congested during event weekends with the mixture of car and foot traffic. The new 10 ft of space will provide plenty of room for vehicles and fans to use the road safely and easily both entering and exiting the facility.
While there is plenty of work being completed on the infield, the majority of the construction is taking place on the track itself and is being handled by Dansville, NY-based Genesee Construction Services Inc. The areas surrounding the Inner Loop, Turn 10, Turn 11, and The Carousel all look more like standard construction sites than turns for a world-renowned road course. The tire barriers that once lined the inside (driver’s right) of the Inner Loop or “bus stop” have already been removed as has all of the gravel that filled the trap between the racing surface and retaining wall. A new concrete wall is being poured to replace the old tire barriers and once it sets then a new SAFER barrier will be hung from it. Fresh asphalt is scheduled to be laid next week to fully pave-over the old gravel trap.
The construction in The Carousel is moving just as quickly as in the Inner Loop and it looks just as different. The tire barriers and guardrail that were located on driver’s left as they exited The Carousel onto the short straight have been removed. Dirt and gravel have been brought in to level-off the ground to allow a new run-off area to be paved and 400 ft of new curbing has also been added along the edge of the turn. The guardrail will be replaced in the coming weeks but will be located farther from the track and be lined with large trashcans filled with sand much like the ones currently in use at the entrance of pit road.
The work completed thus far in Turns 10 and 11 is not as extensive as in the Inner Loop or The Carousel but they are still full of activity. Half of the gravel trap in Turn 10 has been removed and the remaining dirt is being packed and leveled to allow for paving to begin next week. The curbing that was already in place has been extended by approximately 350 ft. The tire barriers in Turn 11 have been removed and preparations are being made to pour the foundation for the cement wall that will be used to hang the new SAFER barrier.
Tickets for the entire 2010 season including the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 5-8, and Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen, July 2-4, weekends are on sale now! Fans can take advantage of advanced sale prices and new options by calling the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(4-16-2010)

Jim Boeheim named Grand Marshal for Nationwide race at the Glen: Fans that attend the Zippo 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series race at The Glen on Saturday, August 7 will see a well-known face in a very new place during the pre-race ceremonies. Syracuse University Men's Basketball Coach Jim Boeheim will serve as the Grand Marshal for the race and say the most famous words in racing "Gentlemen, start your engines" just minutes before the green flag drops at approximately 2:00 PM EST. In addition to his honorary duties, Coach Boeheim will watch the race with a limited number of S.U. hoops fanatics from the confines of one of WGI's VIP hospitality areas. Tickets for this special package start at $150 and include; weekend reserved seat, upscale food & beverage stations, guided garage tour, race day collectible as well as a chance to rub elbows with one of college basketball's all-time greats. Fans interested in this once-in-a-lifetime experience should call 888-356-7223 to place their order. All of the proceeds of tickets purchased to this rare opportunity going towards The Jim and Juli Boeheim Foundation.(Watkins Glen PR)(4-7-2010)

All-You can eat at Watkins Glen: Race fans looking for a great seat and more bang for their buck during the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend, August 5-8, need to look no further than the newest offer from Watkins Glen International. For only $75, fans can purchase the NEW All-You-Can-Eat package that includes 4-day general admission access, a Sunday reserved seat in the Turn 11 Grandstand, and access to the exclusive all-you-can-eat concession tent. Those interested in purchasing this money-saving package or upgrading their Turn 11 Grandstand seats to include the “All-You-Can-Eat” option simply need to call 866-461-RACE.
The cost to upgrade from a standard Turn 11 Grandstand seat to the All-You-Can-Eat package is ONLY $6 making it a great way for fans to catch all the action of NASCAR’s 25th visit to The Glen and feed themselves and their families for an affordable price! The all-you-can-eat concession tent will be open 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM on the morning of Sunday, August 8th to allow fans plenty of time to fill their stomachs and then head to their seats for the new 1:00 PM start time. The tent will be conveniently located just behind the Turn 11 Grandstand. This offer is just the latest in a line of changes The Glen has made to help fans save money that already included reduced prices on NASCAR general admission tickets, the special family-friendly prices in the McDonald’s Family Grandstand, and expanded kids pricing to include fans 15 and under.
Tickets for the entire 2010 season including the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 5-8, and Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen, July 2-4, weekends are on sale now! Fans can take advantage of advanced sale prices and new options by calling the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com. Tickets, gift certificates and track merchandise can all be purchased at The Shop located at 2 North Franklin Street in downtown Watkins Glen. The Shop is open Monday-Friday 9-5, Saturday 9-4, and is closed Sunday. (WGI)(4-3-2010)

Five NASCAR Races at Michigan and Watkins Glen...$95: For the first time ever, two historic tracks both known for their picturesque locations, Watkins Glen International and Michigan International Speedway, have come together to offer race fans two great experiences for one low price. As part of the new Heluva Good! ticket package, NASCAR fans get a total of five exciting races for ONLY $95 including the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400 at MIS on Sunday, June 13, and the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen on Sunday, August 8. Both race tracks offer some of the most unique camping opportunities in the sport of racing and are both located in popular vacation destinations. Watkins Glen International is located in the heart of the Finger Lakes Wine Country where tourism to the region has seen a substantial increase in visitation in the past few years as well as being featured in top tier publications such as Travel + Leisure, Budget Travel, and a featured road trip in the 2010 Rand McNally Atlas. This “Heluva Good!” ticket package saves fans $20 compared to the cost of purchasing separate tickets and includes general admission tickets to both of the International Speedway Corporation (ISC) sister facilities. This great package includes two races on the high-speed oval of MIS during Heluva Good! 400 June 12 and 13. Not only will fans be able to watch NASCAR’s first visit of the season to the Great Lake State but also the VFW 200 NASCAR Camping World Series race on Saturday, June 12. Fans that attend the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend, August 5-8, in New York’s Wine Country, will not only get to watch the stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series challenge The Soul of American Road Racing but also the double-header featuring the Zippo 200 NASCAR Nationwide and Crown Royal 200 GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series races on Saturday, August 7. Any fans that are ready to catch the excitement of the legendary twists and turns of WGI and the high-speed action at MIS simply need to call 800-354-1010 to order their tickets today.(MIS and WGI)(4-1-2010)

Fan Vote in for Watkins Glen songs: The votes are in and in a race too close to call, the fans have decided that the rock song “Big” by Ten Man Push and the country song “Down at the Honky Tonk” by The Custom Taylor Band are the top songs on this year’s Summer Soundtrack to The Glen. Both songs will be used for the background music in the TV commercial for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend, August 5-8, which will debut during the broadcast of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, February 14. Each band will also perform LIVE on the Red Cat Summer Stage during New York’s largest weekend sporting event on Saturday, August 7. The concert is included with the price of admission and weekend tickets start at only $60. Fans can download the entire Summer Soundtrack to The Glen for FREE by simply going to www.TheGlen.com/summersoundtrack. Tickets for the entire 2010 season including the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 5-8, and Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen, July 2-4, weekends are on sale now! Fans can take advantage of advanced sale prices and new options by calling the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(2-5-2010)

Watkins Glen makes changes, including SAFER: Fans and drivers will notice some major changes in several turns when they come back to the legendary road course of Watkins Glen International during the 2010 season. The Glen is continuing their capital improvement plan and undergoing another major renovation project, which is just the latest series of changes, since the permanent road course’s debut in 1957. Among the changes is the removal of gravel traps and grass, modification of the catch fence, installation of SAFER Barriers, and the relocation of guard rails. The project will be the largest improvement project on the 3.4-mile road course since the installation of new catch fences prior to the first IZOD IndyCar Series race at Watkins Glen International in 2005. The renovation project will affect all series that race on the 3.4-mile circuit and include improvements to the Inner loop or “Bus Stop”, Turn 5 (known as Turn 9 of the short-course or the “Carousel”), Turn 10 and Turn 11.
Along the portion of the course known as the inner loop or “bus stop,” the existing gravel trap will be replaced with a paved runoff area, which will allow more side-by-side racing throughout the tight turns. Additionally, a SAFER barrier will be installed along the interior concrete barrier wall and the existing catch fence system will be removed with a modified version installed. Turn 5, also known as the “Carousel Turn” will include the removal of the existing grass to pave an extended runoff area and the installment of a rumble strip built to FIA specifications along the track edge of pavement. The existing guard rail system will be modified to install a crash attenuator system, to help absorb the impact when a car makes contact with the wall.
Similarly, the project in Turn 10 will include the removal of a portion of the current gravel trap, which will be replaced with another paved runoff area. Additionally, the current FIA rumble strip will be extended along the track edge of pavement. Finally, Turn 11 improvements will feature the installation of a SAFER barrier in front of the exterior guide rail system. Additionally, all grass areas between the new SAFER barrier and the track will be paved to help provide better traction when a driver is attempting to bring their car to a stop.
Tickets for the entire 2010 season including the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 5-8, and Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen, July 2-4, weekends are on sale now, call the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(Watkins Glen International)(1-18-2010)

Fan Voting to pick songs for Wartkins Glen: Watkins Glen International announced that all potential songs for the Summer Soundtrack to The Glen have been submitted and the top eight are now available on the TheGlen.com. Almost 50 New York State-based bands submitted their best songs for consideration in the hopes of being selected for the first-ever soundtrack that represents the event season at the historic road course. Voting runs until midnight on Sunday, January 3, 2010 and the winning band will have its music used as the background music for the television commercial for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event weekend, August 5-8, and perform live on the Red Cat Summer Stage during that weekend.(WGI)(1-3-2009)

Heluva Good! will continue sponsor Watkins Glen; adds Michigan: Watkins Glen International announced that Heluva Good! will continue as the title sponsor for the historic road course’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race through 2011. The two year agreement is a two track deal that includes the title sponsorship for Michigan International Speedway’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race in June. The green flag is scheduled to drop on the 25th running of the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen at 1:00pm/et on Sunday, August 8, during its traditional weekend, and will be broadcast live on ESPN. Heluva Good! will remain the official dip product of Watkins Glen International for 2010 and 2011. The Sodus, NY-based company will become the title sponsor for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips 400 at Michigan International Speedway on Sunday, June 13, and be designated the official cheese and dip products of MIS.
Tickets for the entire 2010 season including the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 5-8, and Camping World Grand Prix at The Glen, July 2-4, weekends are on sale now! Fans can take advantage of advanced sale prices and new options by calling the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or logging on to the official website, www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)
AND Race fans who missed out on renewing tickets at Michigan International Speedway can leave a $30 goodwill deposit and ensure the best, guaranteed lowest prices in 2010. Deposits will be accepted through Jan. 5 only. After that, ticket prices will likely increase as demand goes up. More info at MISpeedway.com.(12-17-2009)

2010 Watkins Glen tickets on sale: Tickets for the 2010 season at Watkins Glen International will go on sale to the general public on Saturday, November 14. The great deals and new options for the 2010 season give fans more ways to save and more choices then ever before. The Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen has some of the biggest savings with general admission tickets starting at only $60 and reduced priced McDonald’s Family Grandstand tickets, $65 for adults and $20 for kids 15 and under, returning. New in 2010 - fans will also have the option of purchasing Sunday-only reserved grandstand seats to this event. The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series will return for their 25th Running at The Glen, August 5-8, when they compete in the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen on Sunday, August 8th. Tickets for the entire 2010 season will go on sale to the general public on November 14, 2009. For more information, please contact the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or log on to the official website at www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(11-14-2009)

Watkins Glen donates prints to USS New York crew: Over the years, Watkins Glen International has worked very hard to show its support of the men and women of the United States military, but its most recent donation is a first for the historic road course. With the help of the drivers from the NASCAR Sprint Cup and IndyCar Series, The Glen was able to donate specially signed and framed prints to the captain and crew of the U.S. Navy’s newest addition – the USS New York. These prints are the only ones signed by all of the drivers from each series and are just the latest of The Glen’s efforts which have included military discounts on tickets, featuring all branches in pre-race ceremonies, supporting the Climb to Glory Charity at nearby Fort Drum, and a wide range of fly-overs. The top drivers of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series signed one of the event posters for the 2009 Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen that was designed by renowned artist Sam Bass. The sailors of the USS New York will find the names of almost every NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver that competed at The Glen this year. The donation was made following a request from the U.S. Navy for items and memorabilia from major sites and attractions around New York State to be placed in the soon-to-be commissioned ship. The goal is to enhance the connection between the ship and the state for which it is named as well as provide numerous displays throughout the ship to represent various aspects that have formed the culture of New York.
The USS New York is the fifth ship in the LPD 17 San Antonio class of amphibious transport dock ships to be built. It is very unique from the other four ships of this class for two specific reasons. The first, and most important, is that steel from the World Trade Center wreckage was used in the construction of the bow stem of the ship. The bow stem is the part of the ship that reaches the farthest forward where it cuts through the water and also helps provide hull integrity. The second is that state names have typically been reserved for submarines but an exception was made in the case of the USS New York. George Pataki was the Governor of New York in 2001 and, following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, he sent a letter to Secretary of the Navy, Gordon England, asking the Navy to please revive the name USS New York and give it to a surface ship that would fight in the war on terror. The USS New York is currently docked in New York City for its commissioning ceremony which will be held on Saturday, November 7. The general public is welcome to tour the state-of-the-art ship until Wednesday, November 11. More information about the USS New York can be found by visiting www.ussnewyork.com.
Tickets for the entire 2010 season will go on sale to the general public (non-renewal customers) November 14, 2009. For more information, please contact the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE (7223) or log on to the official website at www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(11-9-2009)

Watkins Glen goes green: Officials at Watkins Glen International announced the continuation of their green efforts with the purchase of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to offset 100% of their annual electricity usage. WGI has agreed to purchase 1,000 Wind Energy RECs annually from NextEra Energy Resources. The two-year agreement will ensure The Glen uses [100%] renewable power, reducing emissions and its’ carbon footprint by using wind power. In addition to offsetting The Glen’s annual electricity use, the purchase will support the development and advancement of wind and solar energy in the United States. NextEra Energy Resources commits to invest an amount equal to 100% of the proceeds from The Glen’s REC purchase in new wind and solar energy projects across the country. NextEra Energy Resources, LLC is a competitive wholesale power generator. The company is the largest generator of wind and solar power in North America and the leading producer of hydroelectric power it the Northeastern United States. Based out of Juno Beach, Fla., NextEra Energy Resources owns nearly 90 facilities operating in 25 different states and Canada. In addition to the partnership with NextEra Energy, Watkins Glen International is also an active partner with Swathout Recycling of Beaver Dams, NY. The agreement provides fans camping at Watkins Glen International an option to participate in a curbside recycling program. Fans simply place all of their recyclables curbside in a special bag provided by WGI each night, and crews come around to collect the bags.(WGI)(8-14-2009)

No rain tires for Cup...yet UPDATE:
NASCAR president Mike Helton said more research will have to be done before fans see Sprint Cup Series cars racing in wet conditions. #24-Jeff Gordon said he isn't thrilled about the idea but enjoyed watching the 2008 Nationwide race in Montreal run in wet conditions. #39-Ryan Newman was more open to the idea but pointed out that Sprint Cup cars are heavier than Nationwide vehicles. "I think that in bad weather, NASA sends up smaller space craft instead of the big space craft and it is pretty similar," Newman said. "You don't want to risk a lot. I don't think it would be an ideal situation for all of the fans. It hasn't, per se, been done yet. It has been tested and practiced a little bit. I am all for it. I have never raced in the rain. It would be a disadvantage to me. I think it is still racing."(Rochester Democrat and Chronicle)(8-9-2009)
UPDATE: Well before the first raindrops fell at Watkins Glen International this weekend, NASCAR president Mike Helton publicly stated there were no plans in place to run a Sprint Cup road race on a wet track in the near future. But if there was ever a change of heart from the sanctioning body, Goodyear officials said Sunday the Akron-based tire company would be equal to the task. "We certainly think so," Goodyear spokesman Greg Stucker said. "There's not that big a difference between the two cars and if you go back years ago, we did run them in Japan on the Cup cars. We're confident we could have a package that would be suitable, if that's what they chose to do." In fact, Goodyear's newest stock-car racing rain tire, closely related to the Eagle One passenger tire, underwent extensive testing this past November at Goodyear's facility in Texas. They used one of Chip Ganassi's Nationwide cars with Juan Montoya behind the wheel, and from all indications, the improvements made to the tire proved successful.(NASCAR.com)(8-9-2009)

Race Officials for Watkins Glen:
The pre-race ceremony for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen on Sunday, August 9 will not only include participation from local military and up-and-coming country band, TelluRide, but it will also feature executives from Heluva Good! and even fans. Scott Blake of Heluva Good! will give the command to start engines for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen. Blake will act as grand marshal of the event of the 90-lap event. Blake is the Senior Vice President of Operations for Heluva Good!, which formed more than 75 years ago in Sodus, N.Y.
Jim Leonard won the experience of a lifetime by entering the Heluva Good! VIP Race Weekend Sweepstakes and will also be participating in the pre-race festivities. As a part of his prize, Leonard will get the responsibilities of the honorary starter for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen. Leonard will wave the green flag to start the race at approximately 2:20pm/et.
In addition to participation from the Heluva Good! representatives, the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen pre-race will also feature local military troops and the up-and-coming Country band, TelluRide. Just before the command to fire engines, TelluRide will perform the American and Canadian National Anthems. Meanwhile, color guards from the ARMY's 27th Combat Brigade of Syracuse, the U.S. Niagara Falls Air Force Color Guard and the U.S. Navy Color Guard of Buffalo will join the West Point Military Police Honor Guard in presenting the nation's colors. The fly-over will be performed by the 174th Fighter Wing of Syracuse, N.Y.(WGI)(8-9-2009)

Riesbeck named to Legends of The Glen Class: Watkins Glen International announced Jim Riesbeck as the final inductee into the “Legends of The Glen” Class of 2009. After honoring the Drivers of the Decade in 2008, the Class of 2009 is composed of individuals who have had a significant influence over the history and success of Watkins Glen International. The induction was a part of the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend, August 6-9, which featured racing by the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series—a series that Riesbeck helped bring back to The Glen more than twenty years ago. The award was accepted on Friday afternoon by members of the Riesbeck family. Family members in attendance included his brothers John and Larry Riesbeck, and his sister Mary Linda Vetter. In early 1983, Riesbeck was searching for a way to increase the economic viability of Upstate New York, which would benefit his employer, Corning, Inc. After visiting the 1983 Daytona 500, Riesbeck knew that bringing NASCAR’s top division to the region was exactly what he needed to do. He began searching for a facility near Corning, N.Y. and stumbled upon the racetrack in Watkins Glen which was for sale. At the time, The Glen was going through one of the darkest periods in its history. The Watkins Glen Grand Prix Corporation filed for bankruptcy in 1981, leaving the track to be auctioned off and all spectator events cancelled for 1982 and 1983. After looking at the facility for the first time on 1983, Riesbeck was surprised with the good condition of the track and quickly traveled back to Daytona Beach for a meeting with executives of International Speedway Corporation (ISC). Within just a few months, the two companies announced a new entity formed through their joint venture. The newly announced “Watkins Glen International” would begin hosting spectator events in 1984. Riesbeck never gave up on his dream of bringing NASCAR racing to Upstate New York and continued to work with NASCAR executives until he was successful in securing an agreement. In August 1986, Watkins Glen International hosted its first race for NASCAR’s top division in more than 21 years. After an afternoon on great racing on the 2.45-mile circuit, Tim Richmond took the checkered flag to win from the pole position. Riesbeck continued to be a driving force at The Glen until his untimely death in 1993. In appreciation of everything Riesbeck has done to make The Glen on of the premier road courses in America, Watkins Glen International presents a Steuben bowl, The Riesbeck Cup, to the winner of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race every year.(WGI)(8-8-2009)

Soldier to be honored at Watkins Glen: Staff Sgt. Jonathan Madonna will be honored as a "Hometown Hero" during the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend at Watkins Glen International. Madonna, of North Syracuse, was injured in an explosion two years ago while serving in Iraq. He now works with the U.S. Army's Wounded Warrior Program, which helps soldiers recover from devastating injuries. At the track, Madonna will tour the garage, hauler and pit areas, and he'll meet the U.S. Army Racing Team of the Sprint Cup #39 Chevy driven by Ryan Newman. Madonna will watch the race from the grandstand, and he will talk to fans who visit the Army's Strength in Action Zone, an interactive area featuring simulators, fitness tests and other challenges that allow race fans to experience what a soldier's life is like.(Elmira Star Gazette)(8-7-2009)

Text Service available at Watkins Glen: Watkins Glen International has partnered with InStadiumSolutions (“ISS”) to implement a text-message based communication system at their facility. The service debuts this weekend, August 6-9, at Watkins Glen International, host to the Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car Series Crown Royal 200, NASCAR Nationwide Series Zippo 200 and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen. The text messaging system allows fans to communicate directly with the racetrack’s command post if assistance is needed in dealing with any special needs inside the facility. The service is being provided at all International Speedway Corporation facilities and successfully debuted in May at Darlington Raceway. Texting instructions will be placed prominently throughout each facility via static signage and will be regularly broadcast through audio and video public announcements. Fans are still encouraged to dial 911 for facility emergencies.(WGI)(8-6-2009)

New York Armed Forces to highlight ceremonies at Watkins Glen: The pre-race ceremonies for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen and Zippo 200 are sure to be memorable in 2009. As a special tribute to our country and our local troops, several local military groups will be participating in the pre-race festivities by providing fly-over crews and color guards. Fans can expect goose bumps from the ceremonies that involve members of the Army, NAVY, Air Force, and West Point Military Police.
Leading up to the start of the Zippo 200 on Saturday, August 8, fans will get to cheer on members of the armed forces from around New York State. During the singing of the National Anthem, color guards from all different military branches will be posted around the 2.45-mile circuit. The U.S. Niagara Falls Air Force Color Guard of Niagara Falls, N.Y., will be joined by the Army’s 27th Combat Brigade of Syracuse, N.Y., and the U.S. NAVY Color Guard of Buffalo, N.Y., to present the nation’s colors. Following the Anthem, multiple Black Hawk helicopters from the N.Y. Army National Guard of Albany will pass over the grandstands at a low altitude to amaze the fans.
The pre-race ceremony for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen on Sunday, August 9, will feature even more involvement from local military. Four F-16C Fighting Falcons of the 174th Fighter Wing from Syracuse, N.Y., will stun fans as they fly over the grandstands just moments before the drivers fire their engines. Just like Saturday, colors guards will be stationed around the road course from the U.S. Niagara Falls Air Force Color Guard, the 27th Combat Brigade of Syracuse, and the U.S. NAVY Color Guard of Buffalo.
Located front-and-center, the West Point Military Police Honor Guard will present the nation’s colors from the pre-race stage at the start/finish line. Each member of the West Point Military Police Honor Guard has served the country in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. The West Point Military Police Color Guard’s primary purpose is to render military honors at military funerals for fallen comrades, but they also present the nation’s colors for various prestigious ceremonies and events. For tickets and information, please contact the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE or log on to the official Watkins Glen International website at www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(8-5-2009)

Country Stars to sing National Anthems/hold concert at Watkins Glen: The Red Cat Summer Stage at Watkins Glen International will feature some of country music’s hottest rising stars following the Zippo 200 on the night of Saturday, August 8. The concert will feature both Megan Linville and TelluRide. Linville will open the concert beginning 6:30pm/et in the Turn 10 Village, and then TelluRide will take over as the main act. Once again the concert is included in the price of admission for both Weekend and Sunday-Only ticket holders to the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, August 6-9. Sunday-Only ticket holders will be permitted to enter the track starting at 5:00pm/et on Saturday evening. In addition to performing Saturday night, both TelluRide and Linville will perform the National Anthem leading up to the racing action at The Glen. Linville will perform the Canadian and American Anthems just before the Zippo 200 on Saturday afternoon. Then, minutes before the green flag falls for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen, TelluRide will perform the anthems for the crowd around the 2.45-mile road course. For tickets and information, please contact the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE or log on to the official Watkins Glen International website at www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(8-4-2009)

Watkins Glen's McDonalds Family Grandstand Sold Out: Tickets in the McDonalds Family Grandstand are sold out for the Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend, August 6-9. The family-friendly grandstand offers one of the best seats in the house, allowing fans to watch the stars of the Sprint Cup Series zip through the Esses and head for the backstretch. For the first time in recent memory, the McDonald’s Family Grandstand has sold out two weeks before the green flag falls at The Glen. Other great seats at The Glen are still available for the upcoming Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dips at The Glen weekend, August 6-9. For tickets and information, please contact the Watkins Glen International ticket office at 866-461-RACE or log on to the official Watkins Glen International website at www.TheGlen.com.(WGI)(7-28-2009)