In one of the most unique circumstances in NASCAR Xfinity Series history, Parker Kligerman drove Connor Zilisch’s No. 88 JR Motorsports Chevrolet to victory in Friday night’s Wawa 250 Presented by Coca-Cola at Daytona International Speedway, creating a fascinating footnote in the record books.

The unusual situation began when 19-year-old phenom Connor Zilisch, still recovering from a broken collarbone suffered during his victory celebration at Watkins Glen two weeks prior, made the difficult decision to protect his healing injury. Under caution on lap 13, Kligerman took over driving duties in what would prove to be a masterful performance.

“I didn’t expect to get a call from Dale Jr. on the day I was leaving for vacation, saying, ‘Hey, man, would you come drive this thing?'” Kligerman explained after the race. The veteran driver, who has served as a part-time competitor this season, found himself thrust into an unexpected opportunity.

For Kligerman, the victory carried special significance as it provided redemption for a heartbreaking experience at Daytona earlier this year. In February’s Craftsman Truck Series race, Kligerman crossed the finish line first but was subsequently disqualified due to a ride-height infraction, turning triumph into devastation.

This time, there would be no such disappointment. From lap 13 through an overtime finish that extended the race to lap 104, Kligerman demonstrated exceptional racecraft, managing traffic and positioning himself for victory despite the unusual circumstances.

While racing-reference.info will officially credit Zilisch with his seventh win of the season—tying Christopher Bell’s record for most wins by a Sunoco rookie in Xfinity Series history—the victory was truly a team effort. The sight of Zilisch running from the pit box to congratulate Kligerman on the frontstretch, followed by their careful embrace mindful of the injured collarbone, perfectly captured the unique nature of this triumph.

“It’s weird,” admitted Zilisch. “It was really weird the last time I did it, and I never thought I’d have to do it again… But I love Parker. I’ve been a fan of Parker for a long time. He’s another one I’m OK watching win inside my race car.”

The victory was made even sweeter by JR Motorsports’ complete domination of the podium. After the overtime restart on lap 103, strong pushes from teammate Justin Allgaier helped secure the win, while Sammy Smith brought home second place. Allgaier himself claimed third, giving the team a rare 1-2-3 sweep.

The strong showing also had championship implications, as Allgaier’s fifth-place finish in Stage 1 and Stage 2 victory helped him regain the series points lead from Zilisch, taking a four-point advantage heading into the August 30 race at Portland International Raceway.

Friday night’s race significantly impacted the playoff picture, particularly for cousins Harrison Burton and Jeb Burton, both fighting for the final playoff spot. Harrison Burton’s early spin after contact with Matt DiBenedetto put him two laps down, but strategic cautions allowed him to return to contention.

Jeb Burton initially looked strong with a ninth-place finish in Stage 1, but his race took a turn for the worse when contact with Sammy Smith triggered a six-car accident on lap 20. Both cousins were ultimately collected in an 11-car melee on lap 97, with Harrison finishing 16th and Jeb 20th. The results gave Harrison a crucial 36-point cushion for the final playoff position with just two regular-season races remaining.

The race was marked by multiple incidents that tested drivers’ patience and skill. A massive 13-car wreck in Turn 4 during the final two laps ended the race under caution, adding another layer of drama to an already eventful evening.

Ryan Sieg, who had led a race-high 19 laps and appeared to be a contender for victory, saw his night end in disappointment when he was caught up in the lap 97 accident, finishing 31st and falling 56 points below the playoff cutline.

As the Xfinity Series prepares for Portland International Raceway, the unusual circumstances of Daytona’s Wawa 250 will be remembered as a testament to the sport’s collaborative spirit and the lengths teams will go to protect their drivers’ long-term health.

For Kligerman, it was an unexpected return to victory lane. For Zilisch, it was another win toward his rookie record, albeit from an unusual vantage point. And for NASCAR fans, it was a reminder that sometimes the most memorable victories come from the most unexpected circumstances.

The race results: Connor Zilisch (driven by Parker Kligerman), Sammy Smith, Justin Allgaier, Jesse Love, Sam Mayer, Brandon Jones, Dean Thompson, Garrett Smithley, Brennan Poole, and Carson Kvapil rounded out the top ten.

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