Watkins Glen, N.Y., July 21—State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C,I-Big Flats) and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C,I-Corning) released the following statement after today’s announcement that Watkins Glen International was victorious in USA Today’s online competition to decide “America’s Best NASCAR Track”:

“Thanks to everyone who took a turn at the wheel and kept voting, day after day, to support Watkins Glen International as the best NASCAR track in America. It’s a well-deserved national honor for track officials and staff, drivers and, most of all, the fans who help make The Glen one of the renowned venues in all of sports and an absolute anchor of the culture and economy of our Finger Lakes and Southern Tier regions. It was a great ride and a great show of support for one of our own.”

The nearly month-long USA Today voting contest ended on Monday, July 17. WGI was among 20 nationwide finalists for the 2017 designation.

Throughout the competition, O’Mara, Palmesano, and other local leaders singled out The Glen for its unique contributions to American motorsports. WGI events annually generate over $200 million in economic activity across the region and account for more than 2,000 local jobs. The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series weekend in August is one of New York’s largest sporting events and attracts fans from all 50 states, as well as 16 different countries.