Racetrack names next president

Dec 18, 2023 at 05:53 pm by Observer-Review


WATKINS GLEN–The search for the next president of Watkins Glen International ended close to home, as long-time Corning Incorporated director and lifelong Southern Tier resident Dawn Burlew was named the first woman to hold the position, the track announced last Friday.
Burlew was born in Elmira and graduated from Horseheads High School before attending Cazenovia College and Keuka College. She then launched her professional career at Corning Inc. Most recently, Burlew served as director of government affairs and director of business development at the multinational technology company based in nearby Corning.
Retiring from Corning Inc. after 40 years, she brings a passion and commitment to the region in her new role.
“Part of my fabric is the community here in the Southern Tier and I’m proud to represent the region as the next president of Watkins Glen International,” said Burlew. “My personal and professional lives have often brought me to The Glen, including when Corning was involved with the ownership of the track. I have a tool chest of skills that I know will be beneficial to WGI and NASCAR, allowing me to contribute to the team from day one.”
While at Corning Inc., Burlew led the company’s New York state government affairs strategic network and advocacy initiatives to support, promote and advance corporate and regional economic sustainability.
Her ties to the motorsports community already extend to serving as a member of the governing council of the International Motor Racing Research Center located in the Village of Watkins Glen. She also serves as a board member of several other regional committees including the Business Council of New York State, Chemung County Chamber, and Southern Tier Regional Economic Development Council.
“No one knows the region better or brings more devotion to our community around Watkins Glen International than Dawn,” said Chip Wile, senior vice president and chief track properties officer at NASCAR. “Her authentic connection to the business and governmental communities in New York state will allow her to grow The Glen through its next phase as one of the premier racing facilities in the country.”
Burlew will assume her new responsibilities at Watkins Glen International on Jan. 3, 2024.
For the 2024 season, the NASCAR Cup Series Go Bowling at The Glen race adds intensity to the weekend as it moves to the playoffs for the first time in history. This also meant the weekend shifting from August to September.
The previous two years the race was the penultimate in the regular season, helping to set the field for the Cup Series Playoffs.
The 2024 schedule includes:
• April 6-7 – Opening Weekend
• May 31 – June 2 – SCCA Majors Super Tour   
• June 6-9 – Historic Sportscar Racing   
• June 20-23 – IMSA Sahlen’s Six Hours of The Glen   
• July 10-14 – Ferrari Challenge North America   
• July 26-28 – Finger Lakes Wine Festival
• Aug. 21-25 – Hilliard U.S. Vintage Grand Prix   
• Sept. 11-15 – NASCAR Go Bowling at The Glen
For more, call 1-866-461-RACE or visit TheGlen.com.
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