WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (WENY) -- Race weekend is kicking off at Watkins Glen International (WGI) and, along with it, the opening of the new John R. Saunders Administration Building. The surprise dedication ceremony took place on Friday morning for the former WGI President.
Friends, families, colleagues, and supporters gathered to say some kind words about Saunders' legacy and his contributions to the racing community.
"He started here at Watkins Glen in the early 1980s, eventually [he] came down to Daytona Beach, Florida and worked for International Speedway Corporation at the time," said Ben Kennedy, the NASCAR EVP and Chief Venue and Racing Innovation Officer. "Eventually, he helped work through the merger of bringing ISC (International Speedway Corporation) and NASCAR together and, to be able to recognize him here today is just a very small momento for all that he's done. Not only for the track and the area of Watkins Glen but for the sport and the industry as a whole too."
Several of the attendees say Saunders has and continues to have an impact in all that they do. Whether that's at WGI or in the racing community as a whole. Speakers were able to share some of these stories during the dedication ceremony.
Saunders has has held many different positions over the years. Even now, he stays involved by serving as chairman of the International Motor Racing Research Center in Watkins Glen.
When it came time to select a name for the new building, many who were involved in the project say Saunders was the first name to come to mind.
"So, when we started to build the building and we wanted to look at, 'What does it represent?' It represents our past, our present, and our future and where we want to go," said Dawn Burlew, the President of WGI. "It just screamed John, to have the name. We could've given it a turn name, we could've given it all kinds of things but to be someone that has been a mentor for all of us for so long and to be standing in, to be our rock, we all want John to be our rock."
The guest of honor was quite surprised Friday morning since the secret has been kept for a long time. Saunders said he was at a loss for words during the event and the luncheon that followed.
"I'm so proud of it," said Saunders. "Watkins Glen is deep in my heart and it always will be and to be part of this wonderful structure makes me so happy."
The John R. Saunders Administration Building also serves as a ticketing and credentials office which will be open for guests to use this race weekend.
Some WGI and NASCAR officials say they are glad to finally have a new home base at their favorite track.