Connor Zilisch Eyes Daytona Race After Collarbone Fracture
JR Motorsports driver Connor Zilisch intends to compete at Daytona International Speedway this Friday, despite having suffered a broken collarbone less than two weeks ago.
Zilisch, leader in the Xfinity Series points, announced on Thursday that he has received medical clearance to participate and will be present for the qualifying session, with the aim of completing the 100 laps of the race at Daytona. He will have Parker Kligerman as a reserve driver if necessary.
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 accident occurred in Watkins Glen on August 9, when his foot got caught in the window net, causing a head-first fall onto the concrete.
With three races remaining in the regular season, Zilisch leads the points standings with a seven-point lead over Justin Allgaier. Simply starting the race will earn him points, even if Kligerman replaces him in the vehicle.
Zilisch has already demonstrated a remarkable recovery ability 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.
