Connor Zilisch Seeks Daytona Competition After Fracture
JR Motorsports driver Connor Zilisch is aiming to compete at Daytona International Speedway this Friday, despite having suffered a broken collarbone less than two weeks ago.
Zilisch, leader in Xfinity Series points, announced on Thursday that he has received medical clearance to compete and will be present for the qualifying session. His intention is to participate in the 100 laps of the race at Daytona.
In the event that Zilisch is unable to compete, Parker Kligerman will be available as a substitute at Daytona.
The 19-year-old young driver, who is projected to compete in the Cup Series next year with Trackhouse Racing, underwent surgery last week to stabilize the fracture with a plate.
The incident occurred on August 9 in Watkins Glen, when his foot got caught in the window net, causing a fall that impacted his head against the concrete.
With three races remaining in the regular season, Zilisch maintains a seven-point lead over Justin Allgaier. Just starting the race would earn him points, and even if Kligerman replaces him, he would also score points.
Zilisch has shown a remarkable ability to recover this season. After missing a race at Texas Motor Speedway due to a back injury sustained in a crash at Talladega Superspeedway, he achieved 11 consecutive top-five finishes and five victories since his return.
