No. 6 Stoffer taking advantage of off-week
By: Jack Korpela

With only seven Pro Stock Motorcycle races remaining in the 2006 NHRA POWERade Series, GEICO-backed Karen Stoffer, currently ranked No. 6 in the point series, is utilizing this weekend’s break from the grueling action to prepare for a run at the championship.

“We’re going home to regroup,” the Miden, Nev. resident said. “The points are getting tighter and tighter and we’re still up there. At this juncture in the season every single run counts so much more. We’re ready to buckle down.”

At the tour’s last event, the oxygen-starved Mopar Mile High Nationals from Denver, Co., Stoffer qualified eighth with a 7.44 at 180 mph. In qualifying Stoffer was among the top four quickest inline-four-cylinder motorcycles and represented the quickest Vance and Hines-powered Suzuki. Four of the top five spots went to the big bore v-twins.

“The Buell’s really dominated. This was their conditions and we knew that going in,” Stoffer said. “I was proud we were able to qualify eighth.”

Stoffer was defeated in the opening round by two-time defending class champion and eventual event champion Andrew Hines, who ran 7.43 to Stoffer’s 7.53.

“There is always a silver lining when you lose to the guy who won the race,” Stoffer said. “Denver has always been a very difficult track for us. We were having some clutch difficulties.”

Next up for Stoffer will be the Fram-Autolite NHRA Nationals, July 28-30, from Sonoma, Calif.

“This one is only four-and-half hours drive from our house,” Stoffer said. “I’ve done so much bracket racing there; I consider it my home track. I’m really excited. The team is working extra hard to make these last few races count.”

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.