Before permanent race facilities became the norm, many of America’s most famous circuits were run on public roads — including Watkins Glen. This video looks back at the original Watkins Glen road races from 1948 to 1952, when competitors navigated everyday roadways much like they did at Lake Garnett.

In the 1960s, Watkins Glen and Lake Garnett were even competing for the opportunity to host National Championship SCCA races. Both venues shared similar roots in grassroots road racing, built on community effort and a love of motorsport.

It’s a fascinating look at another legendary “ghost track” that once stood alongside Lake Garnett in racing history.