At the IMRRC we would see a movie on the development of racing at Watkins. Bill Green, the Watkins Glen historian would provide a talk and insights into his recollections of having attended nearly every race there. Bill would lead a tour of the old course that was used from 1948 to 1952. It’s just over six miles long and we might do two laps together. (The course is all public roads so people may revisit it at any time.) 

The tour will point out the site of Sam Collier’s fatal accident in Briggs Cunningham’s Ferrari. We’ll cross the old stone bridge, bounce over the railroad tracks and go through Archie Smith’s corner. If time and size of the group works we might stop a few times along the way. We will return to the IMRRC for a recap with Bill and more chance to browse this wonderful resource. One can also walk along the walk of fame and find the names of drivers we’ve known of over the many years of racing here.

We will plan a Seneca Lake dinner cruise with Captain Bill’s evening sailing. Captain Bill promises a chance to “…savor a multi-course meal featuring the best of the Finger Lakes, from prime rib to local wines.”  The dinner cruise cost is $96.99. The cruise is 7:00 to 9:30 PM. We will see if they will offer a group rate when we have an idea how many may be coming.

 Nearby is the fabulous Glen Curtis museum in Hammondsport. Curtis was an early motorcycle racer before becoming one of the fathers of aviation in the United States. The museum is large and covers both interests.

The Watkins Glen State Park with it’s glorious walk down through the gorge is another attraction not to  be missed. The gorge can be walked from bottom (steep) or one can take the shuttle to the top and walk down (easier).  The many waterfalls and stone cliffs are breath taking.  (Better carry some extra breath.)

Hotels are easier mid-week, hence a Tuesday to Thursday itinerary. There are a number of choices for hotels from the all-but-lavish Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel to the famous Seneca Lodge, where many drivers stayed back in the fifties and sixties. There are also delightful boutique hotels with costs starting just under a hundred dollars per night.

We will need to make plans shortly. Chowderheads will be on their own to find a hotel of their choice. We will book the cruise but will need that prepaid.

Please let us know if you will come. Families are also welcome as are friends who aren’t yet Chowderheads. 

RSVP Please,  by the 4th of July.