Connor Zilisch continues to impress in the Xfinity Series Pacific Office Automation 147, securing a thrilling victory at Portland International Raceway on Saturday night. Zilisch’s dramatic win adds to a dominant streak, further elevating his profile in the NASCAR scene as the rookie claimed his eighth series win this season.
Zilisch’s Win Sparks Buzz at Portland International Raceway
Competing at Portland International Raceway, Zilisch faced—and overcame—a tough field in the Pacific Office Automation 147. Having recently recovered from a back injury, the rookie has been unstoppable, stacking up 13 straight top-five finishes since his return, and now tying Corey Heim’s record with an eighth win for the year. Zilisch also clinched two stage wins at the event, underlining his command of road courses and his growing reputation in the circuit.
The final laps of Saturday’s race brought high stakes and unpredictable turns. After the overtime restart, Zilisch managed to outpace Austin Hill and briefly lost control, missing a critical turn and sliding off the prescribed course. Despite veering off, he maintained composure, navigated the maze outside the lines, and returned to the track still ahead of the pack, sealing his win by a 1.567-second margin over Sawalich. The unexpected maneuver left fans and competitors alike buzzing about his skill under pressure.
Key Moments and Rival Performances
Saturday’s race unfolded with notable incidents and memorable moves. Zilisch dominated the early stages, capturing the opening stage win and later sweeping the second stage. Justin Allgaier, Hill, and rookie Carson Kvapil added to the action, with Hill making strategic moves and Kvapil showcasing strong potential with a statement overtake. Sheldon Creed‘s day ended prematurely after a spin took him out of contention. Jesse Love’s vehicle was also forced from the race, highlighting the intensity of the competition.
The closing laps saw Hill momentarily overtake Zilisch on a Stage 3 restart, but a multi-car pileup forced another overtime shootout. In the chaotic final chance, Zilisch reclaimed the lead with a decisive move, showing the poise and competitive edge that have made him a standout rookie this season. His celebration burnout at the finish capped off a highlight-filled night for the No. 88 team, signaling momentum heading into the latter part of the schedule.
Broader Context and Records in the Making
Outside the Xfinity Series Pacific Office Automation 147, the broader NASCAR landscape also witnessed record-breaking performances. Earlier Saturday, Corey Heim tallied his eighth win of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season at Darlington Raceway. Heim matched Zilisch in the record book, with both drivers serving notice as dominant forces in their respective series.
He continues to break records! @CoreyHeim_ is the first driver in CRAFTSMAN Truck Series history to win eight of a season’s first 19 races. pic.twitter.com/WVjAqUSba8
— NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Trucks (@NASCAR_Trucks) August 30, 2025
The Pacific Office Automation 147 not only underlined Zilisch’s capabilities but also set the stage for the final regular-season event at World Wide Technology Raceway and a looming postseason beginning September 12 at Bristol Motor Speedway. As a rookie, Zilisch’s consistent performance, tactical acumen, and composure during chaos have quickly made him a favorite to watch, and his historic run places him among NASCAR‘s rising stars.
With the postseason race heating up, all eyes will be on contenders like Zilisch, Hill, Heim, and others as they battle for victory in the remaining events, promising more dramatic finishes in the weeks ahead.
