New season, track surface closing in on 2016 debut at Watkins Glen International

WATKINS GLEN, NY (March 18, 2016) - With an offseason full of track repaving and preparation in the rearview mirror, race season at Watkins Glen International is fast approaching.

To mark the beginning of another season at the storied road course, Opening Weekend fueled by Kwik Fill Red Apple once again provides fans with the opportunity to take their personal vehicles on track behind an official WGI pace car and take advantage of on-site ticket sales for upcoming events.

Proceeds from this year’s event admissions will benefit the R.A.C.E. (Racing and Community Enrichment) Foundation, a donor-advised fund of the NASCAR Foundation. In addition, on Saturday morning, 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.arcofschuyler.org.

“Opening Weekend is always special because it signifies a new year for the facility and our fans,” said Watkins Glen International President Michael Printup. “The anticipation is even greater this season due to the official debut of our repaved track. It’s been fun to talk about it over the winter months, but it’s about time we have some cars out there.”

Festivities kick off with opening ceremonies to be held on Friday, April 15th, further details to be announced as they are confirmed. The 12th annual Toyota Green Grand Prix, a showcase of motoring technology that aims for a cleaner environment, returns to the track, as well.

On both Saturday and Sunday, fans will have the unique opportunity to drive the track in their own vehicle. Tickets to 2016 events at Watkins Glen International will also be on sale at advance prices for one final time before the seasonal increase on Tuesday, April 19th.

Finally, ticketholders will notice several Watkins Glen International partners offering promotional discounts simply by showing a 2016 Opening Weekend stub, including: Hazlitt, International Motor Racing Research Center, Zippo, Bully Hill Vineyards, Great Western, Corning Museum of Glass, and Pole Position Raceway.(WGI)