Behind the Zoom: Tom Long

Mazda Prototype driver Tom Long, who grew up in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., has a special appreciation for the history and the tough circuit at Watkins Glen International where he will be racing this weekend.

Watkins Glen International has always been one of my favorite tracks. The town, the track, and the history is incredible. It's a beautiful area, with the circuit overlooking the town below, right at the base of Lake Seneca.Watkins Glen is legendary with its history of famous drivers, Formula 1 races, and a racing legacy dating back to 1948, when Watkins Glen hosted the first post-WWII road race through the downtown streets.The permanent circuit, which was built in 1956, is so challenging and has a lot of excitement to offer, like the high-speed Esses and banked corners with extreme elevation. It's really rewarding when you get a lap right.