Jul 2, 2025
WATKINS GLEN, NY — The Watkins Glen Area Chamber, in proud partnership with Watkins Glen International (WGI), is pleased to announce the revival of a cherished local tradition: the Thunder in the Glen coloring book.
Originally created in 1998 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of racing in Watkins Glen, the coloring book was distributed to all K–4 students in the Watkins Glen and Odessa-Montour School Districts. In 2025, the Chamber and WGI reimagined this special project. They distributed the newly updated edition, along with crayons, to all K–4 students in the Watkins Glen, Odessa-Montour, and Bradford School Districts.
The artwork for the coloring book was created by Robert Gillespie, a renowned local motorsports artist and educator, whose illustrations capture the vibrancy and spirit of racing in the region. His contributions help connect students to the area’s storied history through engaging and age-appropriate imagery.
“We’re so excited to team up with Watkins Glen International to bring this coloring book to life,” said Nigar Hale, Executive Director of the Watkins Glen Area Chamber. “It’s a fun way to fuel creativity, share smiles, and help our youngest artists in the making connect with the magic of our community.”
“We love engaging kids with what we do, because they are our future fans, employees, pit crew members, and drivers,” added Dawn Burlew, President of Watkins Glen International. “We appreciate this partnership with the Chamber to bring the Thunder in the Glen coloring book back to our community.”
This initiative reflects a shared commitment to arts education, youth engagement, and local heritage, celebrating the power of creativity to inspire pride and connection in the next generation.
Contact: Caitlin Kelce, Marketing Communications Manager
Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce
ckelce@watkinsglenchamber.com
Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce
ckelce@watkinsglenchamber.com