 Watkins Glen as it appeared in 1969/1970 with the 'Big Bend'. Track was 24-28" wide, 2.3 miles long, 35 pits available. Picture and information courtesy J.J. O'Malley/Bill Green  Watkins Glen as it appeared in 1971. 2.428 miles plus an option of the 'Boot' or 'Anvil' for the long course of 3.377. The track was widened to 36 feet and the start/finish line moved. Fifty pits were constructed. 3.4 million $ went into the reconstruction. Picture and information courtesy J.J. O'Malley/Bill Greeny  Watkins Glen 50 years Anniversary book by JJ. O'Malley and Bill Green published in 1995. the 170 page book covers all of the history of the race track and a lot of details about most races. Rare photos included. |
Watkins Glen Race Track Watkins Glen is not only a race track. What makes this location a beautiful spot is its very nice village and especially the race book library "downtown" that is a must for any racing enthusiast. The family can take a boat trip on the lake, while car buffs stroll along the shelves and tables for some hours. I've been there and I can only recommend it. But that is today. Let's take a look back The Watkins Glen racetrack had different courses and shapes throughout its history. It was later built along John Argetsinger's dream of the Nuerburgring race course, that he once visited in Germany. The "Green Hell" how it was called by famous drivers has inspired a few new race tracks, although safety issues later hindered an exact copy of this thrilling circle track. There is much more relation of Watkins Glen with the Mustang I and II and you'll read about this here in a few days.  Picture courtesy Ford Media  Watkins Glen pits during the 1971 TransAm race Picture courtesy Sam Colman, David M. Bauer  Watkins Glen VIP spectators during the 1971 TransAm race Picture courtesy Sam Colman, David M. Bauer  Watkins Glen race track during the 1971 TransAm race Picture courtesy Sam Colman, David M. Bauer  Watkins Glen Pass out check ticket. A rare piece that was handed out for leaving the secure race cars aerea. This area was typically protected during nights by armed track personnel in those days. Picture courtesy Sam Colman. |
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