Watkin’s Glen – Sept. 5th – 7th, 2008

The US Vintage Grand Prix is taking place at Watkin’s Glen (NY), from Friday Sept. 5th to Sunday Sept. 7th. We are hoping to have a large contingent from the club at this year’s races. So far we have 10 members (plus spouses) and ten cars (some trailered, some on their own steam) committed to attend. We expect to be in good company as the featured marquee this year is Triumph. This is also the 60th anniversary of racing at the Glen.

I will be organizing arrangements for the trip down to the Glen if there interest in a group “convoy”, and for disseminating any info including accommodations.

At this time all reserved camping spots at the Watkins Glen Racetrack are booked, but there is (and likely will be) plenty of spots available in the unreserved areas. It is “first come first served” when you arrive. General admission camping is $50 for the weekend (includes 2 vehicles). Please note that there are no hookups of any sort at the camping site.

Just outside the town of Watkins Glen, beside Lake Seneca, is the Watkins Glen W.W. CLUTE MEMORIAL PARK and Campground. It features full hookups (water, hydro and sewer) for $37/night and tent spots at $25/night. A few club members (Mike Graham, Bob Thomas) have already reserved spots there. You can get further details at:
watkinsglen.us/./parks.htm

In addition, there is the Watkins Glen State Park, about two miles west of Watkins Glen. In addition to offering more campsites, more shade and more scenery, it also has full trailer and tent facilities, including showers. Tent site go for $16/night and full hookup for trailers is $28/night. So far Tim Dyer and Gord Robertson (as well as 4 of his Jag/Alfa/Porsche friends) have opted for the State Park. Reservation information for the State Park can be accesses at:

http://newyorkstateparks.reserveamerica.com/Camping/Watkins%20Glen%20State%20Park/r/campgroundDetails.do?subTabIndex=campDetail&contractCode=NY&parkId=254

There are also scores of hotels/inns/motels/bed & breakfasts within a 20 minute drive from the track. Just click on the link below and check out the lists under Watkins Glen for each category (Lisa and I will probably “wuss–out” at one of those for the weekend).

http://www.fingerlakes.org/accommodations.htm
If you are even mildly considering attending for the first time, I encourage you to consider it. For anyone interested in vintage sports cars/race cars and racing, being there is like being a kid let loose in the biggest and best candy store.

In addition, for those contemplating bringing along a spouse who is a less enthusiastic aficionado of gasoline fumes and high decibels, a trip to the Glen offers the beauty of the Finger Lakes district, more wineries along the way than you can shake a vine at, and opportunities for unlimited consumerism at the local malls.

If you are considering attending, or wish more information, please send an email to sid.woznica@servicecanada.gc.ca. I would appreciate hearing from you as soon as possible, as I would like to include you in any planning for the group. Hope to see you there.