Watkins Glen International, Motorsport racing track in Dix, New York, US
Watkins Glen International is a permanent racing circuit about three miles (five kilometers) south of the village of Watkins Glen in New York State with 11 turns and elevation changes. The track follows the hills over a length of about 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometers) and runs through open terrain with views toward nearby Seneca Lake.
The first event took place in 1948 on public roads in the village until the permanent course was built outside town in 1956. Between 1961 and 1980, the facility hosted the United States Grand Prix for Formula One.
The International Motor Racing Research Center on the grounds houses exhibits of race cars from different decades and archival material on motorsport history. Visitors can walk through the collections and learn about the technical evolution of the vehicles.
From April through October, visitors can join the Drive the Glen program and drive their own vehicle on the racing circuit. It is advisable to check in advance for current conditions and which days the track is open to the public.
In 1971, the so-called Boot section was added, which extended the circuit and created more technically demanding passages. This part received its name from the shape that resembles a boot.
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