No. 5 Stoffer looking to keep advancing By: Jack Korpela Red-hot, GEICO-backed NHRA POWERade Pro Stock Motorcycle racer Karen Stoffer is hoping to carry on the success that took her to the semifinals and advanced her four spots in the POWERade points series at the last race, to the tour’s next stop, this weekend’s NHRA Pontiac Excitement Performance Nationals from Columbus, OH. “The team did a great job in Atlanta and I feel like we can keep that going this weekend,” Stoffer said. “We are focused on making smooth, fast, and consistent runs this weekend.” Stoffer, who continually states how important a good qualifying performance is to her team’s success on race day, is coming off her best qualifying position of the year in Atlanta, where she ran 7.10 at 184 mph to capture the No. 4 spot. “That’s where the difference was,” Stoffer said. “We’ve done well as the wildcard before, but being on the top half of the ladder gives you a much better chance for success.” Stoffer is no stranger to success at National Trail Raceway, having triumphantly advanced to the finals in 2003. Last season she qualified seventh and scored a first round victory. Stoffer is hopeful that this could be here greatest trip to Columbus yet. Watch for Stoffer during this weekend’s ESPN 2 Coverage May. 20 - 10:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m. - Qualifying May. 21 - 8:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. - Eliminations May. 23 - 3:00 a.m.-5:00 a.m. - Repeat Eliminations Stoffer extended a special thanks to all of the 2006 sponsors. Geico Motorcycle Insurance 1-866-326-2036, Mac Tools, Bates Leathers, NGK, Airtech, Wrath Motorsports, Square One Graphics, and Vance and Hines Motorsports.