Zane Smith, who drives full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series for Front Row Motorsports, has identified his top racing destination, and it is not the one most fans would expect. Smith’s favorite NASCAR track has also become a special place for his wife, McCall Smith, making it a shared highlight in their busy racing lives.
As a professional driver, Smith travels extensively across the country, competing at various venues. Like many of his colleagues, he has developed an affection for one particular location. Notably, McCall Smith, who is well-known in the NASCAR fan community and frequently active on social media, has openly discussed which race track holds a special place in both their hearts.
Watkins Glen: More Than Just a Race Track
During a recent podcast appearance with Haley Dillon, McCall Smith revealed the surprising choice that stands apart from more frequently mentioned venues such as Daytona or Bristol.
“[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, on the Haley Dillon podcast
She admitted she had previously skipped visiting Watkins Glen, unsure if it would be worth the trip. Once she experienced the location firsthand, however, she found herself impressed by the unique atmosphere and the wealth of local activities available. From hiking spots to the charm of the small town nearby and scenic lakes, Watkins Glen offers an array of attractions. The area’s breweries and wineries, combined with the local community spirit, contributed to making it a memorable destination for the couple.
“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, on the Haley Dillon podcast
Additional NASCAR Venues the Couple Enjoys
Although Watkins Glen sits at the top of their list, McCall Smith noted that Daytona is also close to their hearts due to its legendary reputation in racing culture.
“There’s no other feeling than pulling into Daytona,”
– McCall Smith, on the Haley Dillon podcast
Zane Smith’s Track Record at Watkins Glen
Zane Smith’s history at Watkins Glen includes multiple appearances in the NASCAR Cup Series and prior stints in the lower tiers of the sport. Smith first competed at the track in the Cup Series in 2024 with Spire Motorsports, starting 19th and securing a fifth-place finish, marking one of his only two top-five results that season.
The following year, Smith returned with Front Row Motorsports, driving the No. 38 Ford Mustang Dark Horse. Starting from 33rd, he recovered to achieve a respectable 17th-place finish. Even before his Cup Series days, Smith contested at Watkins Glen with GMS Racing during his tenure in the Craftsman Truck Series, earning a sixth-place result in 2021.
Significance of Watkins Glen in Their Racing Journey
This unexpected choice reflects not just professional achievement, but also the couple’s appreciation for the vibrant community and natural attractions surrounding Watkins Glen. As Zane Smith continues his journey in NASCAR, the venue stands out as more than just a race track, offering lasting memories for both him and McCall Smith, and reinforcing a bond with local fans, especially fellow Buffalo Bills supporters. Their passion for the place suggests Watkins Glen will likely remain a standout on their racing calendar in seasons to come.
