FIRST - Post WWII Road Race in America
Posted by: 
Rayman
N 42° 22.607 W 076° 52.306
18T E 345900 N 4693307
The first automobile road race after World War II was held in Watkins Glen, NY in 1948.
Waymark Code: WM1RKQ
Location: New York, United States
Date Posted: 07/02/2007
Views: 53
At this spot the green flag dropped for 23 sports cars to start the first road race in the United States after World War II. The event was sanctioned by the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), sponsored by the Village of Watkins Glen, and attended by around 5000 spectators. It marked the beginning of a racing era at Watkins Glen and throughout the country. The 6.6 mile course started at this spot with a 1/4 mile straightaway, then made a sharp right to go up a steep climb, and across a plateau that lead to another ascent. Before heading back down the hill, the course crossed the New York Central railroad, whose trains were held up during the race. After crossing the rail line, the track went into a mile long descent back into town and across the start/finish line.
At the end of four laps, 15 cars qualified for the main event which ran 8 laps. 11 cars finished the race.
In 1952, the last year the circuit was used, there were more than 100 entrants. The course may be toured today over the same roads marked with signs identifying the special features of the circuit.
FIRST - Classification Variable: Item or Event
Date of FIRST: 10/02/1948
More Information - Web URL: [Web Link]
|
Visit Instructions:As a suggestion for your visit log, please make every effort to supply a brief-to-detailed note about your experience at the Waymark. If possible also include an image that was taken when you visited the Waymark. Images can be of yourself, a personal Waymarking signature item or just one of general interest that would be of value to others. Sharing your experience helps promote Waymarking and provides a dynamic history of your adventures.