State Senator Tom O’Mara and Assemblymembers Phil Palmesano and Chris Friend recently recognized the 40th anniversary of NASCAR racing at Watkins Glen International with a legislative resolution honoring the track’s impact on the region and New York State.
The lawmakers presented the resolution to Watkins Glen International President Dawn Burlew during a ceremony last Sunday at The Glen Club as part of the Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen weekend.
The resolution, sponsored by O’Mara and Palmesano and co-sponsored by Friend, was unanimously approved by both the New York State Senate and Assembly during the closing days of the 2026 legislative session.
In a joint statement, the three lawmakers praised Watkins Glen International as one of the world’s premier motorsports venues and highlighted its economic and cultural importance.
“It is our privilege to pay tribute once again to one of the world’s iconic sporting venues,” the legislators said. “Across the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions, we all take great pride in the fact that The Glen has resonated so powerfully throughout the history of American motorsports and as a mainstay of the NASCAR circuit for the past 40 years.”
The lawmakers also described Watkins Glen International as a cornerstone of the regional economy, tourism industry and community, citing its role in supporting charitable organizations, local businesses and economic development.
Burlew said the recognition reflects the track’s long-standing relationship with NASCAR and New York.
“To be the home of NASCAR in New York State for 40 years—and counting—is something we are incredibly proud of,” Burlew said. “We will continue to work hard to welcome race teams, officials and fans with the best possible experience, and thank the New York State Senate and Assembly for this recognition.”
While NASCAR first raced at Watkins Glen in 1957, the event became a permanent fixture on the racing calendar in 1986. Since then, the annual race weekend has become one of the region’s largest tourism events, drawing fans from across the country and generating significant economic activity for the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier.
The legislative resolution states that NASCAR’s continued success at Watkins Glen has contributed to regional economic growth while helping establish the track as one of New York’s premier sports and entertainment destinations.
