Aaron Reutzel Wins at Port Royal, Met with Boos Due to Injury
PORT ROYAL, PA – September 5, 2025 – Aaron Reutzel secured a victory at Port Royal Speedway Friday night in a High Limit Racing event, but his celebration was marred by audible boos from sections of the crowd. The reaction stemmed from Reutzel racing despite a notable leg injury that visibly limited his mobility, requiring him to use a specialized walking boot while in victory lane.
The incident highlights a growing tension between a driver’s determination to compete and concerns over safety, particularly when an athlete is clearly hampered by an injury. Reutzel, who has faced a challenging year with multiple hospital visits, addressed the crowd’s reaction directly, questioning the motivation behind the negativity. The win is particularly significant as Reutzel noted it came during what he considers one of his fastest and most triumphant racing seasons to date,a season threatened by his injury.
“How low do you have to be to boo a crippled,” Reutzel stated from victory lane, visibly emotional. He explained the difficulty of returning to racing, stating, “Honestly, I needed my foot to heal up a little faster. It was taking a long time. I had enough.”
Reutzel detailed the modifications required to allow him to operate the vehicle, explaining, “This shoe here, its basically like wearing my walking boot, my cast. It’s solid but still small enough to get in the car. It would never happen with a regular boot.” He acknowledged the risk involved, adding, “Really, it was trying to figure out how to do it, stay safe and not further damage myself. I was honestly nervous when I committed to do it.”
The driver admitted to struggling with the lack of feeling in his foot,a crucial element of controlling the vehicle. “Yesterday, it took a lot to figure out how to run the car this way, with no feeling. I’m used to feeling the pedal with my toes,” he said. Despite the physical strain, Reutzel expressed relief and gratitude, stating, “My leg is wore out. This is cool. It’s a little emotional, it’s a lot. That was a big one.”
Reutzel also reflected on the frustration of being sidelined, saying, “I’ve never had to sit out on the sidelines. It sucked. Definitely, one of my better years, ever, speed wise.” he acknowledged the unfortunate timing of the injury, adding, “It’s the worst time to get hurt. I could think of a lot of other years, if I had to pick a year to get hurt it wouldn’t have been this one.” He concluded by noting the challenges he’s overcome this year, stating, “two trips to the hospital this year. It’s been a really trying year. But, we keep overcoming it.”
High Limit Racing will continue at Port Royal Speedway Saturday night with the finale of the event.
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