Opening Weekend set to kick off 2017 season at Watkins Glen International

Believe it or not, Opening Weekend and the 2017 race season at Watkins Glen International is right around the corner.

As recently as last month, the historic 3.4-mile circuit set to be the only track to host every North American-based racing series in 2017 was covered by up to a foot of snow left behind by Winter Storm Stella. Looking ahead, the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, and Verizon IndyCar Series headline a season schedule full of the world’s most talented drivers, hottest cars, and most competitive races in the sport.

It all begins with Opening Weekend at Watkins Glen International, festivities kicking off on Friday, April 7th, with the 13th annual Toyota Green Grand Prix, a showcase of motoring technology that aims for a cleaner environment. On Saturday morning, April 8th, the Arc of Schuyler, a non-profit organization providing support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is holding a 3.4-mile run, or one-mile walk on the track. To register, visit www.arcgrandprixrun.com.

On both Saturday and Sunday, for just $25 per vehicle, attendees can experience the twists and turns of the full Grand Prix road course for three paced laps from the driver’s seat of their own vehicles. Proceeds will benefit Watkins Glen International’s RACE Foundation, which supports local community organizations – especially those assisting underserved youth populations in the Watkins Glen area.

“It’s a great way to open the season and celebrate spring at Watkins Glen International,” said WGI President Michael Printup. “We are going to be home to some of the best racing in the world again this season, and it all begins with a day benefitting the RACE Foundation. We look forward to seeing the best fans in motorsports back again after a long winter.”

Fans attending Opening Weekend at Watkins Glen International will also notice the track’s partners offering promotional discounts simply by showing a 2017 Opening Weekend at WGI ticket stub, including:

  • Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards
  • Great Western
  • Corning Museum of Glass
  • International Motor Racing Research Center
  • Zippo
  • Seneca Gaming

WGI PR