A decade back, Austin Theriault emerged as New England’s promising prospect entering the national motorsports scene. Currently, however, Theriault finds himself participating in a completely different kind of race.
Last weekend at Oxford Plains Speedway, this racer-turned-politician dedicated his efforts to a significant cause.
During each lap of the historic Maine speedway at Sunday’s season-closing PASS 400, Theriault focused on raising funds for Lewiston, a city still grappling with the aftermath of a mass shooting from the previous fall.
Consistent with his journey since concluding his NASCAR career in 2019, Theriault is chasing a purpose greater than himself.
“I have always been passionate about Maine and the future of my home state,” Theriault remarked regarding his recent initiatives. “I find rural Maine particularly important, since that’s where I grew up in a small town.”
Hailing from Fort Kent, a town at the northern end of U.S. Route 1, Theriault’s hometown is characterized by its residents often speaking both English and French due to its proximity to the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Quebec.
Just an hour’s drive from Spud Speedway, named after the crop that fuels Aroostook County’s economy, Fort Kent is where Theriault first experienced stock car racing as a child.
Theriault’s team readies their car for the PASS 400, which is a 300-lap Super Late Model race divided into three segments of 100 laps each. (STS/Jeff Brown)In the 2010s, Theriault represented the most promising hope for New England to witness one of its blue-collar stars ascend to the…
Competing on some of the sport’s grandest stages, wins in the American-Canadian Tour and Pro All Stars Series opened the pathway for JR Motorsports to offer Theriault a chance in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Additionally, he secured a part-time slot in the NASCAR Truck Series with Brad Keselowski Racing in 2015. While Theriault showcased promising results, a severe crash and a back injury in the latter part of the season hindered his career progress.
In 2017, a fortuitous preseason meeting with racing legend Ken Schrader resulted in Theriault securing a spot in Schrader’s ARCA Racing Series team for that season. Theriault capitalized on this chance, winning the season opener at Daytona International Speedway and achieving six more victories on various tracks, including short tracks, intermediates, and the dirt mile at DuQuoin, Illinois, as well as a road course, ultimately leading him to the series championship.
However, without substantial financial backing, Theriault faced challenges in securing a ride for the following season.
Theriault competes against Garrett Lamb during the early laps of Sunday’s PASS 400. (STS/Jeff Brown)Theriault’s journey took a full-circle turn in 2019. In August, he secured sixth place in a PASS Super Late Model race at Spud. He also made his NASCAR Cup Series debut in July at New Hampshire Motor Speedway with Rick Ware Racing, finishing out the season with four additional starts. Unfortunately, his last race at Talladega ended prematurely due to another significant crash.
“Following my ARCA championship in 2017, and with Kenny Schrader shutting down the team shortly thereafter, I had some opportunities in the Cup series,” Theriault reflected. “But after suffering a second injury, coupled with the onset of COVID, I realized, you know what? I’ve achieved more than many could ever dream of, especially coming from Spud Speedway, without a racing family background, and competing with top teams across various high-level NASCAR series.”
“I felt fulfilled.”
At just 26 years old, Theriault found himself contemplating his next moves.
Theriault engages in a debrief following a race.
“I have always been deeply involved in every aspect of my racing career,” he stated. “From driving to business, marketing, and management. Thus, expanding into that area and starting to mentor and manage drivers felt quite natural for me.”
Theriault now shares his insights with clients of one of the most accomplished veterans of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
“My work primarily revolves around [Team] Hornaday Development, which is Ron Hornaday’s development organization. We collaborate closely on that. I take great pleasure in witnessing the emergence of the next generation of drivers, ensuring they learn from their missteps, reduce their errors, and when they do falter, they extract valuable lessons to improve and enhance their career opportunities.”
“It’s well-known how challenging it is to break into the sport and to maintain a presence. Breaking in is just the beginning; you must also sustain it. I aspire for those I work with to achieve that.”
One of those individuals is Sylas Ripley, a fellow native of Maine. The young talent secured a fourth-place finish in the PASS-sanctioned Oxford 250 in August, marking only his fifth start in the PASS Super Late Model series. Following a victory in a Saturday heat race, Ripley began Sunday’s PASS 400 leading the field to the green flag.
Ripley secured fourth place in the Oxford 250 in August, and a heat race win on Saturday earned him the pole position for Sunday’s PASS 400. (STS/Jeff Brown)Ripley connects Theriault’s Maine heritage with his new role in motorsports; however, Theriault’s roots have always been present. Unlike many of his peers who chose to recreate their lives in the epicenter of racing, Maine has remained his steadfast home.
“Living in Maine…I’ve never truly left,” Theriault remarked. “While I traveled extensively, I maintained a home base here. The sole difference now is that I’m present more. I currently serve as a state representative for the area where I was raised.”
Theriault entered the political arena in 2022, taking office as a state representative that December to represent the district including Fort Kent and northern Aroostook County. This year, he aims for a higher position, contesting incumbent Jared Golden for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing the second-most rural congressional district in the country.
trackscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Oxford25024-PASS_00026-1024×842.jpg 1024w, https://www.shorttrackscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Oxford25024-PASS_00026-300×247.jpg 300w, https://www.shorttrackscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Oxford25024-PASS_00026-768×631.jpg 768w, https://www.shorttrackscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Oxford25024-PASS_00026-1536×1263.jpg 1536w, https://www.shorttrackscene.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Oxford25024-PASS_00026.jpg 2000w” sizes=”(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px”/>A team applies an Austin Theriault sticker to their car moments before August’s Oxford 250, in recognition of Theriault’s bid for one of Maine’s U.S. House of Representatives seats. (STS/Jeff Brown)The campaign trail took Theriault through the Oxford paddock in the hours before the Oxford 250, with stickers bearing Theriault’s name finding their way onto a number of cars leading into Maine’s most historic and prestigious stock car race.
But even as Theriault’s responsibilities to his protégés and his constituents call, so does the desire to drive.
Theriault entered last year’s Oxford 250, his first major race since 2019, with the goal of raising funds for the Travis Mills Foundation, a Maine retreat for recalibrated combat veterans and their families. Theriault locked himself into the field, starting 22nd of the 41 qualifiers, but finished 31st after a crash ended his evening early.
Theriault suits up for practice before last year’s Oxford 250. In a car prepared by Vermont’s Derek Ming, Theriault successfully raised funding for the Travis Mills Foundation. (STS/Jeff Brown)For the PASS 400, Theriault again bound charity to his racing efforts, supporting the One Lewiston Resilience Fund. The fund was established following a tragic mass shooting in Lewiston, Me. on October 25, 2023. Eighteen people were killed and another 13 wounded in the deadliest such incident in the state’s history. Maine’s second-largest city, Lewiston is only thirty minutes from Oxford; PASS’ year-end banquet is usually hosted across the river in Auburn.
Theriault’s ride for the weekend was emblazoned with the slogan “Lewiston Strong,” the hood bearing the shape of Maine with a red heart in Lewiston’s place on the map. And while plenty of cars still featured Theriault’s campaign decals, on his own car, only the roof rails over the door bore his name.
“What we’re doing this weekend is not supposed to be a political thing, you don’t see any political stuff on the car,” he said. “For the Lewiston non-profit foundation, I have to tally it up, but our goal was to raise $50,000 for them. And when we came here last year, it was for the Travis Mills Foundation, and we exceeded our goal.”
Messages in support of the nearby city of Lewiston graced Theriault’s new ride, a car that NASCAR star Kyle Busch had put through its paces in June. (STS/Jeff Brown)Once again, it was an opportunity for Theriault to support his home state. “With the one-year anniversary coming up of the Lewiston shooting, I wanted to get my mind off the campaign. And so many other people want to do the same thing, because everybody’s tired of politics and this is a good way for us to give back to the community, because a lot of people are still struggling with that.”
Theriault’s car wore his trademark No. 57, the number he drove to ACT and PASS wins in 2012 and 2013. The red and black body panels and Chevrolet Corvette decals, meanwhile, hinted at its history as a one-off entry for a NASCAR star.
“Mark Henderson owns the car,” Theriault said, “and he bought it from Peter Petit. This was the car that Kyle Busch ran.” Former NASCAR team owner and fellow Mainer Archie St. Hilaire fielded the car in cooperation with Petit for Busch in June’s Keen Parts 150 at Lee USA Speedway. Busch struggled through the night, but finished fifth on the back of perseverance, attrition, and a disqualification.
While many teams displayed decals in support of Theriault’s political campaign, race winner Joey Doiron’s car boldly supported the opposition. (STS/Jeff Brown)Henderson’s construction business, a longtime backer of Petit’s entries for drivers Travis Benjamin and Joey Doiron, was one of the sponsors on the car when Busch drove it.
Unfortunately for Theriault, attrition
Sunday’s race proved challenging for Theriault. In the initial 100-lap segment, a first-lap crash occurred, followed by an extended green-flag period. During this stretch, Theriault lost a lap and finished in 25th place. The full field was inverted, placing Theriault at the front for the second segment.
However, things took a turn for the worse as suspension problems compelled him to head to the pit area early in the second segment. After completing a few additional laps, he prepared for the third and final segment. Theriault managed to keep his position for most of the stint but ultimately had to pit a few laps before reaching the checkered flag.
Despite starting on the pole for the second segment of the PASS 400, Theriault’s time leading the pack was short-lived due to suspension complications. (STS/Jeff Brown)He finished the race in 30th place. Sylas Ripley, Theriault’s protégé, claimed victories in the first and third segments but encountered difficulties in the second segment, ultimately finishing third overall. Doiron, representing Petit and displaying Henderson’s logo on his rear quarter panels, secured the overall win in the PASS 400.
“We are still ironing out some issues,” Theriault acknowledged following the race. “We faced several mechanical setbacks, including problems with the shocks, and the sway bar broke.”
After the race, Theriault made his way to the frontstretch to speak with protégé Ripley, who won the first and third segments and finished third overall. (STS/Jeff Brown)Despite the disappointing outcome, a crowd of supporters gathered in the pit area to connect with Theriault and his team, taking photos and wishing him well. “The result wasn’t what we hoped for, but we had a great time,” he remarked. “I believe the experience we’ve gained here is invaluable.”
Theriault’s journey is reminiscent of Phil
Scott, a champion and winner of the Thunder Road International Speedbowl and ACT Tour, was elected as Vermont’s lieutenant governor in 2011 and currently holds the position of governor. He continues to race regularly at Thunder Road, schedule permitting with his state responsibilities.
Theriault may not have the same racing aspirations as Scott, but he remains open to participating in a couple of races each year, should the chance present itself.
“We’ll see what comes up,” he remarked. “I truly enjoy this. I love coming out here. It brings back memories of the way things used to be, you know, that sense of community. Even though we’re competitors on the track, off the track we’re friends.”
“And I really appreciate that.”
If you appreciate what you read here, consider becoming a Short Track Scene Patreon supporter and help promote short track journalism!
Discover more from Short Track Scene:
Austin Theriault: From Racing Dreams to Political Ambitions, Supporting Lewiston Strong
The Journey of Austin Theriault
Austin Theriault, a name synonymous with determination and resilience, has made waves not only in the world of auto racing but also in the political arena. Born and raised in Fort Kent, Maine, Austin’s passion for racing ignited at an early age. He began his career in local go-kart tracks before quickly advancing to higher levels of competition.
Early Racing Career
Theriault’s rise in the racing world is a testament to his talent and hard work. He competed in various series, including the ARCA Racing Series and the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. Below are some key highlights from his early racing career:
- 2013: Theriault made his ARCA debut, showcasing his skills and earning attention from racing teams.
- 2014: He secured a win at the ARCA race in Winchester, Indiana, solidifying his reputation.
- 2015: Joined the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, competing with notable teams.
The Transition to Politics
In 2020, Austin Theriault took an unexpected turn by entering the political landscape. His decision to run for local office stemmed from a desire to give back to the community that supported his racing aspirations. Theriault’s platform resonates with many, focusing on key issues such as:
- Economic Development: Advocating for local businesses and job creation.
- Education: Promoting initiatives for better educational facilities and resources.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging citizens to participate in local governance.
Supporting Lewiston Strong
One of Austin’s significant initiatives is his support for the Lewiston Strong movement. This grassroots effort aims to boost community morale and promote unity in Lewiston, Maine. Here’s how Austin has contributed:
Community Events
Austin has been actively involved in organizing various community events that bring residents together. These events focus on:
- Local Arts and Culture: Celebrating local artists and musicians.
- Health and Wellness: Promoting healthy lifestyles through fitness events.
- Fundraisers: Supporting local charities and organizations.
Advocacy and Awareness
Theriault’s political engagements also include advocating for mental health awareness, a pressing issue for many in the community. His efforts include:
- Collaborating with local mental health organizations.
- Hosting workshops and seminars to educate the public.
- Promoting policies that protect the emotional well-being of residents.
Benefits of Community Support
Supporting movements like Lewiston Strong fosters community spirit and has numerous benefits:
1. Strengthening Local Bonds
Community events encourage residents to meet and connect, fostering relationships that last beyond any single event.
2. Boosting Local Economy
By supporting local businesses during community events, residents help drive economic growth and sustainability.
3. Enhancing Public Awareness
Initiatives that focus on mental health and wellness create a more informed public, leading to healthier community dynamics.
Case Studies: Impact of Local Leadership
Examining successful local leadership can provide insights into the impact of community-focused initiatives. Here are a couple of notable case studies:
| Community Initiative | Impact | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Lewiston Strong Fundraiser | Raised over $10,000 for local charities | 1 Year |
| Mental Health Awareness Workshops | Increased local participation by 30% | 6 Months |
First-Hand Experience: Austin’s View on Community Engagement
In various interviews, Austin Theriault has emphasized the importance of community in both racing and politics. He often reflects on how the support of his hometown shaped his racing career. Here are some insights from Austin:
- “Every win I’ve achieved in racing is a testament to the support from my community. I wanted to give back by getting involved in local governance.”
- “Community engagement is crucial. It’s not just about being present but actively participating and listening to the needs of the people.”
Practical Tips for Supporting Local Initiatives
Want to make a difference in your community? Here are some practical tips to get involved:
- Attend Local Events: Participate in community gatherings to show your support.
- Volunteer: Offer your time to local charities and organizations in need.
- Advocate: Use your voice on social media to promote local causes and initiatives.
- Shop Local: Support local businesses to help stimulate the economy.
Conclusion: A Champion for Community
Austin Theriault’s journey from a race track to local politics exemplifies how passion can drive positive change. His commitment to initiatives like Lewiston Strong not only boosts morale but also fosters a sense of belonging and unity within the community. As Austin continues to navigate the dual lanes of racing and politics, his story inspires others to engage and uplift their communities.
