Ben Rhodes Journey: Ben Rhodes might still be recovering from the festivities after securing the 2023 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship at Phoenix Raceway last weekend. His exuberance was evident in the post-race celebration, marking the second time in three years that he went all-in. Surprisingly, two days later, he ventured into dirt racing.
Reflecting on his emotions as a two-time champion, Rhodes shared, “Emotionally, it hasnt sunk in. All I know is Ive been trying at this sport for almost 20 years now from when I started racing go-karts. When I was 7 or 8, people would ask me what I want to be when I grow up, and Id say I want to be a NASCAR driver.
Rhodes clinched the championship in a dramatic season finale at Phoenix, where title contenders Corey Heim and Carson Hocevar collided, clearing the way for Rhodes. A late-race restart allowed him to bypass Championship 4 contender Grant Enfinger, securing a fourth-place finish and his second title with ThorSport Racing.
Reflecting on the challenges of the 2023 season, Rhodes highlighted the team’s switch from Toyota to Ford and the presence of three different crew chiefs. Despite these hurdles, his lone win at Charlotte Motor Speedway in May secured his spot in the playoffs.
Rhodes credited the No. 99 team’s timely resurgence, with consecutive runner-up finishes at Talladega and Homestead, thanks to a strategic call from crew chief Rich Lushes, securing his place in the Championship 4. Becoming a two-time Truck Series champion places the 26-year-old in esteemed company.
Contemplating his future, Rhodes is evaluating the possibility of becoming a “lifer” in the Truck Series, prioritizing continued growth over a move to the Xfinity Series or Cup Series. He envisions a potential path to becoming a NASCAR Hall of Famer, akin to four-time Truck Series champion Ron Hornaday Jr.
Looking ahead, Rhodes sets his sights on the 2024 season with aspirations of clinching a third Truck Series championship. Expressing his excitement, he said, “It all seems real and tangible to put our name down in the history books for this series.” Whether this will be his last championship or the beginning of many, Rhodes is committed to creating a lasting legacy with Truck Series powerhouse ThorSport.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What does Ben Rhodes do now?
As a political commentator, he frequently shares his insights on NBC News and MSNBC. He is also a valued contributor to Crooked Media and co-hosts the foreign policy podcast, Pod Save the World. Based in New York City, he is a well-respected voice in the media industry.
Where did Ben Rhodes go to college?
Rhodes’ personal life is closely tied to his parents, Lori and Joe Rhodes, who are his loving and supportive family.
Who is Ben Rhodes father?
In 2023, Rhodes secured his second Truck Series championship, joining an elite group of only five drivers to achieve this feat. With his first title already under his belt in 2021, Rhodes has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with on the track. He boasts an impressive record of seven career Truck Series wins and has qualified for the playoffs in four out of the last five seasons. Rhodes’ talent and determination make him a true contender in the world of truck racing.
