Members-Only Watkins Glen Driver Development Experience
Members-Only Watkins Glen Driver Development Experience
Private, Fully Coached Performance Driving & Education Weekend
July 20–21, 2026 | Watkins Glen International | Limited to 20 Drivers
This is not a public track day.
This is a Car Club of Rochester members-only, invitation-based driving experience at one of the most iconic road courses in North America, presented in partnership with Trackmasters, Inc..
Our event coordinator for this weekend is Chris Fox of Trackmasters, who will oversee the structure, instruction, and safety of the program alongside his elite team of professional driving coaches.
If you’ve ever wondered what your car truly feels like at speed, this is your opportunity to discover it the right way.
What This Experience Includes
Dedicated Instructor for Every Driver
Each participant is paired with a professional high-performance driving instructor for both days. Your instructor rides right-seat with you during every on-track session, providing real-time coaching and personalized feedback.
These instructors are:
- Porsche and/or BMW certified
- Watkins Glen locals with tens of thousands of laps
- Former racers, chief instructors, and mentors to other instructors
- Among the top 1% lap-time performers at the Glen
This is structured progression, not guesswork.
Eight Fully Coached On-Track Sessions
Over two days, you will participate in:
- 8 hot-track sessions on the full Watkins Glen course
- 25-minute sessions
- Approximately 10–12 laps per session
- Private run groups during our hot sessions
You will have meaningful seat time, clear instruction, and space to focus.
Classroom Driver Education
Between sessions, you’ll participate in structured classroom learning covering:
- Safety protocols and track etiquette
- The physics of braking and cornering at speed
- Turn-by-turn strategy for Watkins Glen
You won’t just drive. You’ll understand why the car behaves the way it does.
VIP Access: The Glen Club
Throughout the event, members will have access to the Glen Club, Watkins Glen’s VIP clubhouse.
- Climate-controlled indoor viewing area
- Covered outdoor deck
- Catered lunch both days
- Snacks and beverages available throughout
It’s performance driving with premium comfort.
Optional Instructor Race Car Ride-Along
Participants may opt for an additional hot session riding right-seat in their instructor’s race car. It’s equal parts adrenaline and insight, offering perspective that dramatically improves your next session.
Lodging & Monday Night Dinner
While commuting is possible, most attendees will choose to stay overnight near the track on Monday.
We will coordinate:
- A nearby hotel room block (optional)
- A group dinner Monday evening (optional)
Lodging and dinner are additional. If turnout is strong, surplus funds may be applied toward Monday night dinner.
Pricing
$2,000 per driver
Includes:
- Two full days of track time
- Eight on-track sessions
- Dedicated instructor coaching
- Glen Club access
- On-track catering both days
Lodging and Monday dinner are additional, if we hit event full capacity lodging and dinner credits will apply.
Event Requirements
All registered drivers must:
- Be 18+ with a valid state-issued driver’s license
- Use a Snell-rated SA2020 or SA2025 helmet
- Helmets will be provided if needed
- Submit a completed TECH form confirming vehicle safety compliance
- Complete the SpeedWaiver
- Convertibles must have fixed roll bar or factory rollover protection
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this for beginners?
Yes.
This event is specifically structured to accommodate drivers with little or no track experience. You will have a dedicated instructor with you at all times, and progression is controlled and confidence-based.
If you’ve never driven on a track before, this is one of the safest and most professionally guided ways to start.
Do I have to push my car to its absolute limit?
No.
You will drive at a pace appropriate for your comfort level and skill progression. The goal is driver development and confidence, not ego or competition.
What kinds of cars are appropriate?
High-performance street cars, supercars, sports cars, and well-maintained enthusiast vehicles are ideal.
If you have questions about your specific vehicle, contact us prior to registering.
Will this be hard on my car?
Performance driving does place higher demand on brakes, tires, and fluids. However, the event is structured, controlled, and coached to avoid reckless operation.
A proper vehicle inspection (TECH form) ensures readiness.
What if I don’t have a helmet?
No problem. A compliant helmet will be provided for you at the event.
Is this competitive?
No.
This is a coached driver development experience, not a race. There are no trophies, no timing pressure, and no run-group ego battles.
Who is running the event?
The weekend is coordinated by Chris Fox of Trackmasters, an organization with over 35 years of track event experience and a long-standing driver development program progressing participants from beginner to advanced levels.
Limited to 20 Drivers
This is a private Car Club of Rochester experience and space is limited to ensure quality instruction and an intimate environment.
If you’re ready to experience Watkins Glen properly, this is your invitation.
Register
Event registration is hosted through Trackmasters on MotorsportReg:
Questions before committing? Contact us and we’ll walk you through vehicle eligibility, expectations, and preparation.