Full Breakdown
Zane and McCall Smith's Affection for Watkins Glen
12/3/2025, 12:54:54 AM
Shared Favorite: Watkins Glen International
Zane Smith, a full-time competitor in the NASCAR Cup Series for Front Row Motorsports, has revealed that his favorite racing venue is Watkins Glen International, a choice that aligns with his wife, McCall Smith's, sentiments. During a recent podcast with Haley Dillon, McCall Smith expressed her surprise at the charm of Watkins Glen, stating, “[My] favorite track is honestly Watkins Glen. Very random. You probably hear Bristol or Daytona or whatever. I went for the first time I think a couple years ago.” Initially hesitant to visit, she found the location exceeded her expectations with its diverse offerings.
Attractions Beyond Racing
Watkins Glen is not just a race track for the Smiths; it represents a blend of racing and leisure. McCall highlighted the area's hiking opportunities, quaint town atmosphere, scenic lakes, and local breweries and wineries. She noted, “You got hiking. You have just the cute little town. There’s lakes. There’s breweries, wineries. Like, there’s so much to do in Watkins Glen.” Additionally, their shared support for the Buffalo Bills enhances their connection to the venue, as they often encounter fellow fans during their visits.
Zane Smith's Racing History at Watkins Glen
Zane Smith's competitive history at Watkins Glen includes multiple appearances in the NASCAR Cup Series. His debut at the track occurred in 2024 with Spire Motorsports, where he started in 19th place and finished fifth, marking one of his two top-five results that season. The following year, he returned with Front Row Motorsports, starting 33rd and finishing 17th. Prior to his Cup Series career, he also raced at Watkins Glen in the Craftsman Truck Series, achieving a sixth-place finish in 2021.
Significance of Watkins Glen in Their Lives
The couple's affection for Watkins Glen transcends mere racing statistics; it embodies their shared experiences and the vibrant community surrounding the track. As Zane Smith continues to navigate his NASCAR career, Watkins Glen remains a significant venue, offering both professional milestones and personal memories. Their enthusiasm for the location suggests it will continue to be a highlight on their racing calendar in the future.
Official Statements & Responses
McCall Smith's reflections on Watkins Glen emphasize its unique appeal compared to more traditional racing venues like Daytona or Bristol. She articulated the importance of the local community and the shared experiences with fellow fans, particularly Buffalo Bills supporters, in shaping their fondness for the track.
Verbatim Quotes
- “[My] favorite track is honestly Watkins Glen. Very random. You probably hear Bristol or Daytona or whatever. I went for the first time I think a couple years ago.” — McCall Smith, NASCAR Enthusiast
- “You got hiking. You have just the cute little town. There’s lakes. There’s breweries, wineries. Like, there’s so much to do in Watkins Glen. Plus Zane and I are Bills fans. Football Bills fans, Buffalo. And all you see there is Buffalo Bills fans. And so I feel like that also contributes to why we love that place so much.” — McCall Smith, NASCAR Enthusiast
- “There’s no other feeling than pulling into Daytona,” — McCall Smith, NASCAR Enthusiast
The Smiths' connection to Watkins Glen illustrates how personal experiences can intertwine with professional pursuits, creating lasting memories in the world of NASCAR.
