DAYTONA BEACH, F.L. (WENY) - It's an exciting time of year in the Twin Tiers when NASCAR comes to Watkins Glen every summer. This year, NASCAR is celebrating a special milestone as it recognizes Founder's Day and enters its' 75th anniversary.

NASCAR was founded on December 14th, 1947 when Bill France Sr. organized a meeting at the Streamline Hotel in Daytona Beach, Florida to discuss the future of stock car racing. 24 people including drivers, race promoters, mechanics, local officials, car builders, media, other sanctioning group representatives, business people, and a recording secretary. Then on February 15th, 1948 NASCAR ran its first-ever race in Daytona Beach on the beach road course.

There have been many milestones throughout NASCAR's 75 years including changes to the cars, advancement of safety and technology, the development of the series', the addition of tracks, and much more, and it continues to evolve. On July 2nd, 2023 for the first time ever, NASCAR will race on a street road course through the city of Chicago.

This also parallels the 75th anniversary of racing in Watkins Glen when the Watkins Glen Grand Prix began downtown in 1948.

WENY Sports caught up with the President of Watkins Glen International, Michael Printup, and he is excited for WGI to be a part of this year's special celebration.

"I think it's incredible when you take a look at December 14th 75 years ago being a day that will forever be remembered within the NASCAR community, but I also think it sets the stage for the future," said Printup. "Look where we've been, look where we're going, and look at the future even further when you start looking at places like Chicago. So I think this is very nostalgic, I think it's a time to celebrate those 75 years and it's also time to tip a glass of champagne for the future, I think that's part of the key too."

"Us and NASCAR competition and marketing are working on all kinds of fun stuff. We haven't developed a plan to the full extent, but to celebrate that in New York State's largest and only NASCAR Cup and Xfinity facility along with ARCA is going to be something special. This is one of those feathers in your hat" Printup added. 

NASCAR weekend at Watkins Glen is set to return to WGI on August 18th, 2023 with the ARCA Menards Series race, the Xfinity Series race on August 19th, and the Go Bowling at the Glen Cup Series race on August 20th.