Stoffer Successful in NHRA Return By Jack Korpela GEICO-sponsored Pro Stock Motorcycle racer Karen Stoffer made a triumphant return to the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series with a sixth-place qualifying effort and a crucial first round win at the AC Delco Gatornationals, from Gainesville FL. “It was so great to be back,” said Stoffer, who suffered a near career-ending accident last November. “I got to have a lot of great conversations with a lot of the fans that sent me get well emails and cards throughout the season. It’s hard to put into words just how much I appreciate all the support. The next goal is to win an event for all of them. They really deserve it.” Stoffer qualified her GEICO Suzuki TL-1000 in the No. 6 spot with a best lap of 7.06 at 192 mph. “We learned a lot this weekend,” Stoffer said. “We feel like we can be competitive out here and that we have a legitimate shot at the championship.” Stoffer scored a huge holeshot win over friendly rival Craig Treble in the opening round with a .004 reaction time and a 7.13 to Treble’s quicker but losing 7.11 and .032 bulb. “Craig brings out the best in me,” Stoffer said. “He has taught me so much about racing and I have had so many tough races with him.” Stoffer is now seventh in the POWERade points series, just 60 points out of the lead. “I’m really excited,” Stoffer said. “I can feel the team starting to gel. It’s going to be a great season.” Next up for Team Geico will be the NHRA O’Reilly Spring Nationals from Houston, TX, March 31st-April 2nd. Stoffer and the entire team extended a special thanks to all of this season’s loyal supporters: GEICO Motorcycle Insurance 1-866-326-2035, Mac Tools, Bates Leathers, NGK, Airtech, Wrath Motorsports, Square One Graphics, and Vance and Hines Motorsports.