Layne Riggs recently clinched his first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series victory on August 25, 2024, at the historic Milwaukee Mile. This win marks a significant milestone in the promising career of the 22-year-old, driving the No. 38 Ford F-150 for Front Row Motorsports. Riggs, the son of former NASCAR Cup Series driver Scott Riggs, has spent his life chasing this moment, finally achieving it in his rookie year.
Speaking to the media after the race, Riggs commented, as quoted by Yard Barker:
“It’s pretty crazy that it happened in my rookie season with what we’ve had to go through at the beginning of the year. To have really tough runs, a lot of of bad luck, mechanical failures, getting caught up in wrecks … to come back and have a fifth, fifth and a win really means a lot.”
The emotional impact of this first win was evident as Riggs crossed the finish line.
Layne Riggs, driver of the #38 Zorn Compressor & Equipment Ford, leads the field during the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series The Milwaukee Mile at The Milwaukee Mile on August 25, 2024 in West Allis, Wisconsin. Layne Riggs opens up on emotional first win.
Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images
“I came across the line, I couldn’t even see the track. I was crying in my helmet. So many years of trying and working just to be able to race in the Truck Series, let alone win … it’s like your childhood dreams and desires have finally been fulfilled. There’s nothing to describe it.”
Adding to the momentous occasion, Layne’s father, Scott Riggs, made a last-minute decision to attend the race.
“He was actually 50-50 on going to the race,” Riggs said. “He’s like, ‘I might not go this weekend.’ I’m really glad he made the decision to come to the racetrack. I couldn’t have imagined it if he wasn’t there. I think he’s only ever missed three races in my career. It was great to have him by my side.”
The victory is particularly notable given the composition of Riggs’ team. After Zane Smith’s departure at the end of the previous season, Riggs inherited a crew made up of fellow rookies.
“I didn’t get left with the perfect team. A lot of people said that the truck has won the championship before, expecting us to go out and win races right off the bat. This was pretty much a new race team. We’re all rookies.”
Speaking to the media directly after the race, Riggs explained, as quoted by NASCAR.com:
“I don’t even know how to describe it. It’s awesome.
“We’ve had a terrible year. It’s been an awful year, but I’ve learned so much though in my rookie season. After the start, I thought there’s no way we’re going to get a win, we’ll do the best we can and just learn for next year. But I knew in practice this thing [today] was awesome.”
