P1racenews AI automatic summary:
There aren’t a lot of 17-year olds walking around with a Rolex. There are even fewer who earned it by winning one of the biggest endurance races in the world on their first attempt. Connor Zi…
At just 17 years old, Connor Zilisch is already achieving remarkable success in the world of racing. After transitioning from karts to cars three years ago, he quickly made a name for himself in SCCA competition, finishing third in a field of 70 cars in the 2021 SCCA National Championship Runoffs.
In his first race in an LMP2 car, Zilisch, alongside his Era Motorsports teammates, Dwight Merriman, Ryan Dalziel, and Christian Rasmussen, emerged victorious in the prestigious 62nd Rolex 24 at Daytona, one of the biggest endurance races in the world. This incredible feat was accomplished while also competing in the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup, where he secured a pole position.
Although the transition to the LMP2 car presented some challenges, Zilisch adapted quickly with the support of his talented team and mentors like Scott Speed, who provided advice and assistance with simulator work. Zilisch’s teammates at Era Motorsports also praised his skills and dedication, with Dalziel noting that Zilisch sacrificed his final stint in the race to ensure their victory.
Zilisch’s achievements have not gone unnoticed, as he garnered the attention of Trackhouse Racing, who signed him to their team for the Michelin Endurance Cup. This recruitment by a competitor whom Zilisch had beaten on track in a Trans-Am TA2 race speaks volumes about his talent.
Looking ahead, Zilisch will continue to make waves in the racing world, as he is set to compete in ARCA and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2024. With his impressive track record and talent, it seems like the sky is the limit for this rising star.
