Blake Lothian will make his NASCAR Camping World Truck Series debut as he goes behind the wheel for the No. 43 Reaume Brothers Racing team on Thursday night at Martinsville Speedway for the Blue Emu Maximum Pain Relief 200.
The 19-year old NASCAR Drive for Diversity alumni, and winner at Hickory Motor Speedway in late models last season, has one word to describe this deal — grateful.
“I’m so grateful to Josh Reaume and everyone at Reaume Brothers Racing for this opportunity,” Lothian said in a team release. “Looking forward to learning and growing with this team. I remember first watching Todd Bodine race trucks when I was little and ever since then, racing a truck has been a dream of mine. Now I am going to get that opportunity thanks to Reaume Brothers Racing. Coming off of a successful 2021 season, I’m beyond thankful for the opportunity to race at such a historic venue as Martinsville in a NASCAR Camping World Truck. The opportunities that everyone at Reaume Brothers Racing gives to numerous drivers is more generous than I could ever ask for, and I am looking forward to being a piece of the puzzle on the Paperclip.”
Colette Phillips Communications, Inc. will provide primary sponsorship for the effort with the Massachusetts-native behind the wheel.
“As a black entrepreneur, and someone who broke down barriers, I know firsthand just how important Blake’s journey to the top is for black and brown kids,” said Phillips. “Blake’s commitment to excellence and justice on and off the track is admirable, and reflective of a young man wise beyond his years.”
In all, Lothian made eight starts in the Late Model ranks at Hickory in 2021. He scored one win, five top-five finishes and eight top-10s.
The Reaume Brothers Racing No. 43 truck, which started the season off as a home for Thad Moffitt to drive, has become the land of opportunity for drivers to get their first-career NASCAR Camping World Truck Series starts the last couple of races.
Being the launching pad for others brings team owner Josh Reaume joy.
“Giving drivers the opportunity to make their name is part of the reason I have continued in NASCAR for many years,” Reaume said. “I see the same passion and drive in Blake that I have in myself, and I am excited to give Blake the opportunity he deserves.”
Two weeks ago, at Circuit of the Americas, Brad Perez made his series debut and finished 20th in the No. 43 truck. Lothian will look to keep the momentum going for the No. 43 team this week.