Corey Heim earned the pole position for the upcoming NASCAR Truck Series race at Watkins Glen International in New York, setting the fastest qualifying time of 1:10.953. The event, held on August 8, 2025, drew a competitive field with drivers preparing for a challenging road course race. Heim’s strong qualifying lap places him at the front for the race, providing an advantageous starting point on this technical track.
Complete Starting Order for the NASCAR Truck Series Race
The qualifying session determined the starting lineup, with Christopher Bell closely behind Heim at 1:11.144 and Sammy Smith securing third with a 1:11.390 lap. The top ten starters for the race at Watkins Glen International are:
1. Corey Heim – 1:10.953
2. Christopher Bell – 1:11.144
3. Sammy Smith – 1:11.390
4. Andres Perez – 1:11.554
5. Gio Ruggiero – 1:11.579
6. Layne Riggs – 1:11.586
7. Ross Chastain – 1:11.591
8. Chandler Smith – 1:11.613
9. Ben Rhodes – 1:11.724
10. Connor Mosack – 1:11.738
Following them, drivers like Connor Zilisch, Kyle Busch, Tanner Gray, and Tyler Ankrum completed the top 15 qualifiers, highlighting a strong mix of veterans and emerging talents ready to contend on the road course.
Additional Qualifying Insights and Performance Details
Several drivers recorded notable times close to the leaders, with Connor Zilisch posting a lap of 1:11.913 and Kyle Busch at 1:11.955. Some competitors, including Grant Enfinger and Ty Majeski, did not set qualifying times, which may affect their starting positions for the race. The range of lap times, stretching up to Derek White’s 1:19.625, reflects the varied pace and strategies among the field as drivers adapt to Watkins Glen’s demanding configuration.
Significance of Qualifying and Anticipation for the Race
Corey Heim’s pole position sets the tone for what promises to be an intense and strategic NASCAR Truck Series Watkins Glen event. Starting at the front on a road course with limited passing opportunities could prove crucial for securing a strong finish. As the race progresses, drivers like Christopher Bell, Sammy Smith, and Ross Chastain are expected to challenge Heim, offering a competitive battle for the lead. The diverse lineup and tight qualifying gaps indicate a highly contested race ahead, likely drawing significant attention from NASCAR fans.