USA Today via Reuters
Nov 5, 2021; Avondale, AZ, USA; Camping World Truck Series driver Ben Rhodes celebrates after clinching the 2021 Truck Series championship following the Lucus Oil 150 Championship race at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Nov 5, 2021; Avondale, AZ, USA; Camping World Truck Series driver Ben Rhodes celebrates after clinching the 2021 Truck Series championship following the Lucus Oil 150 Championship race at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The ThorSport Racing recently announced some bad news. The outfit’s long-time employee, Rich Riley, unfortunately passed away. Riley worked with them for 18 years and enjoyed a three-decade career in the motorsports industry. The reigning champions were understandably distraught when the news broke as they lost a valuable member.
ThorSport Racing wrote on Twitter, “ThorSport Racing could not have had the success it has had over the years, including this year’s driver and owner championship, without him. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends and all of the lives he made an impact on over the years.”
We mourn the incredible loss of one of our own, our “go to guy,” Rich Riley. He was a teammate, co-worker, friend, brother, loving husband and father figure.
Rich worked at ThorSport Racing for 18 years, and in the motorsports industry for over 30 years across all series. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/aO87M9ZDpe
— ThorSport Racing (@ThorSportRacing) November 18, 2021
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The outfit had a reasonably decent 2021 campaign, with Ben Rhodes winning the first two races. Aside from that, he kept remarkably consistent results. To be precise, apart from Texas and the Darlington Playoff race, he never finished outside the Top 20.
What can ThorSport Racing do now?
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Atleast Rich Riley can be happy that the Truck Series team gave him the perfect gift. Now, all that the outfit can do is continue performing to the best of their ability to honor Rich’s memory. In 2022, reigning champion Rhodes will remain with the team, along with Matt Crafton. However, the outfit still has to confirm its drivers in the #13 and #98 trucks.
via Getty
KANSAS CITY, KANSAS – JULY 25: Matt Crafton, driver of the #88 Ford, celebrates with the checkered flag after winning the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series e.p.t 200 at Kansas Speedway on July 25, 2020 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Kyle Rivas/Getty Images)
Last year, Johnny Sauter drove the #13 truck, while Grant Enfinger and Christian Eckes shared the #98 truck. Next year though, Enfinger moves to GMS Racing in the #23 truck. This could mean that there is a chance for Eckes to take over full time. Sauter’s plans are also unconfirmed, but ThorSport Racing will be keen to retain his services.
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Without a doubt, the team will be keen to clinch another championship in the memory of Rich Riley. The NASCAR veteran has been integral to the outfit, guiding them to four Truck Series championships. Crafton has won three of them in 2013, 2014 and 2019, while Rhodes won in 2021.
