Stoffer Continues Forward Progress in Chicago

At the NHRA Torco Route 66 Nationals from Joliet, Ill, Karen Stoffer maintained her top ten standing in the hotly-contested Powerade point series with a valuable win over veteran Steve Johnson in the opening round of eliminations.

"We are focused on taking every race one round at a time," Stoffer said. "Every single round win counts with how tight the points are."

Stoffer had a strong showing throughout the first two days of the event, qualifying in the No. 8 spot with a best lap of 7.10 on her Geico Suzuki. Stoffer represented the third quickest Suzuki in qualifying.

In the opening round of eliminations, amid less than favorable atmospheric conditions which included near 90-degree air temperatures and nearly 4,000 feet of corrected altitude, Stoffer was able to rise to the occasion with a 7.11 at 180 mph. Her opponent Steve Johnson red-lighted with a -.127 foul start.

In round No. 2 the air temperature rose and track conditions further worsened. Stoffer was paired with No. 1 qualifier Chris Rivas and his S&S Buell, who was recording the quickest times of the weekend round after round.

Stoffer was able to muster up a 7.15, but Rivas again posted low elapsed time of the round with a 7.06 to secure the victory. Rivas then went on to win the event.

Stoffer fell one spot in the Powerade point series to ninth due to finalist Craig Treble jumping up four spots. Stoffer will continue her quest for championship glory at the next stop on the NHRA tour, The Lucas Oil NHRA Super Nationals from Englishtown, NJ, June 19-22.

"We are going to continue working hard in-between races to have the best possible showing at Raceway Park," Stoffer said. "Treble proved at the last event what one good race can do to your points position. We are ready to make a run for the top."

Stoffer went on to extend special thanks to all of the 2008 sponsors and supporters.
Geico Motorcycle Insurance 1-800-44-Cycle, Speed Dawg, Mac Tools, Bates Leathers, NGK, Airtech, Wrath Motorsports, Square One Graphics, Suzuki Extended Protection, Kymco, and Suzuki Extended Protection