Lampman's Riley Raynard, 17, was awarded the prestigious Ken Schrader Real Racer Award from Speedway Illustrated magazine on Dec. 11 in Indianapolis, Indiana, during the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) 2014 show, which attracts members of the racing community from around the worl
Raynard, who has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, came out on top in a field of over 60 nominees, which was eventually narrowed to four finalists.
According to Speedway Illustrated, “The Ken Schrader Real Racer Award annually recognizes those who represent the best in auto racing. It's about racing and recognizes those who do more for the sport than get the most points.”
“It's for a driver who shows a lot of determination for the sport,” says Raynard. “People nominate you for this award and you don't have to win races for it. It's for whoever has the heart and determination for the sport.”
“When they presented it, they started talking about the award and what you had to do for it,” says Raynard. “I guess I overcame a lot of obstacles and stuff.”
“It was really exciting to be there and I was shocked when I got the trophy,” he adds. “Before they announced it, my heart was beating really fast. I'm kind of relieved and happy that I did win it.”
Raynard made the journey to Indianapolis with his parents, Devin and Wendy, his grandparents, other family members, and “My buddy that always helps me”, fellow racer, Leevi Runge, also of Lampman.
“I was just thinking how thankful I was to everyone who nominated me and everyone who helped me. I just want to thank everyone who supported me and stuff.”
This year,Raynard has completed his third year in competition. “I won my first three features racing in Estevan and I was Motor Magic Champion at Nodak Speedway in Minot. My last win of the season was at Big Eagle's in Manor.”
Raynard didn't rest on his laurels after the award ceremony. Instead, he returned to the PRI convention floor to continue visiting some of the nearly 1,000 exhibitor booths.
“I've actually met a couple of NASCAR people and I've talked to another guy about hand controls,” he says.
“This award makes me want to push more, to win more.”
