Stoffer approaching Memphis with confidence By: Jack Korpela GEICO-backed NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle racer Karen Stoffer will vie to break into the top five in the POWERade point series at this weekend’s O’Reilly Mid South Nationals from Memphis, TN. Entering the event Stoffer is ranked seventh in the series, just a mere 38 points out of the top five. Stoffer is coming off a strong showing last weekend in Brainerd, Minn, where she qualified third. “I’m glad there isn’t an off week because I’m so anxious to get back to the track. We showed last week we had the power to win,” Stoffer said. “They gave me a great bike.” However, like most Pro Stock Motorcycle teams, Stoffer’s crew is presented with an unusual challenge. In drag racing competitors often search for ways to help them react quicker. The Pro Stock Motorcycles, because of their light weight and high revs, react much quicker than their four-wheeled counterparts. Thus the challenge for teams like Stoffer’s has been trying to find a way to slow the bikes off the line to avoid red lights. “The guys are really focused on giving me a good setup that will keep my tree slow. It sounds funny but that’s our goal and it’s our biggest challenge,” Stoffer said. “We did good last week and my lights were in the 50s and 60s in qualifying.” Prior to the event Stoffer participated in an autograph signing at the legendary Beale Street in Memphis. “It’s always a good time to get out and see the fans,” Stoffer said. “On Sunday we are going to look to keep the upbeat momentum and keep my mind focused. I’m very focused on going rounds.” Watch for Stoffer during this weekend’s extensive event coverage ESPN2 Schedule Aug. 19 8:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m. Qualifying Aug. 20 10:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. Eliminations Aug. 27 3:00 a.m.-5:00 a.m. Repeat Eliminations (All times Eastern) 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.