SPORT TRUCKS PREVIEW: Rick Martin Looks To Add To Legacy With Fourth Straight Sport Truck Title

There are very few things that Rick Martin has not done in his racing career. Entering 2025, Martin has the chance to chase a fourth straight championship in the Sport Trucks at Seekonk Speedway. As he hangs up the helmet on full-time Pro Stock racing, year 51 behind the wheel could mark another resume builder for the Westport, Massachusetts, native. He is certainly going to be tough to beat when it matters, as well as weekly.

But, there are some top contenders to watch who will look to take him off his game.

Former champions Mike Cavallaro and Mike Duarte come to mind, along with Jake Vanada. These three are proven winners and are around the top-five weekly. Cavallaro needs no introduction, making a career out of winning races and championships in the Sport Trucks. If it wasn’t for some bad luck last year, Cavallaro was among the fastest Trucks weekly, especially through the summer and end of the year. Duarte, another consistent competitor, always seems to be there at the end of each race. He won a championship, and has come close to a second. Is 2025 the year?

Vanada, the one out of the four who doesn’t have a title yet, may be in prime position. Back in the Everett’s Auto Parts No. 29, he’s been to Victory Lane countless times since he returned to Seekonk’s Division IV class. 

Tim Bolger Jr. will also be a contender. Bolger won the Everett’s Auto Parts Triple Crown Series title in the Sport Trucks last year, along with many feature wins. He’s joined by names like Tom Scully III, Amy Helger (formerly Arsenault), Darryl Church, Dane Saritelli, Marissa Morgan, Lenny Guy and DJ Thibeault. One of the top moments of 2024 was Thibeault capturing his first career victory, holding off Martin over the final few laps to do it. Look out for him again in 2025 to have a breakout year. 

Additional names to watch include Ethan Heilborn, defending Rookie of the Year Jack Brewer and Colton Teague, a former Legends Cars competitor. 

The Sport Truck season begins at Seekonk Speedway on Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m. For more information on Seekonk Speedway and to purchase tickets for all events, visit SeekonkSpeedway.com.