Gina Heslop
Barbara Roufs was a well-known drag race trophy girl in the 1960s and 1970s. She brought excitement to car racing events with her beauty, charm, and lively personality.
Her presence at drag racing competitions made her a fan favorite, and she became one of the most recognized trophy girls of her time.
Unlike many other trophy girls, Barbara stood out because of her age—she was 29 when she entered the scene—her tall, slender figure, and her long, straight hair. She became a symbol of the thrilling and glamorous world of drag racing.
Barbara Roufs was born in 1944 in California, United States. She was raised in a family that had a deep connection to motorsports. Her father, Wayne Eldon Riley, was a motorcycle rider and a racer at the Kearney Bowl, a well-known racing venue.
He also loved fishing and owned a houseboat. Barbara’s mother, Thelma Ruby Riley, was a beauty salon owner and played the organ at the Church of the Nazarene. Both of her parents were later honored in the Clovis Hall of Fame.
Barbara had several siblings, including James, Bruce, and Vivian Deaton. She also had an adopted brother, Ben Gube.
Barbara’s journey into the world of drag racing started when she became a trophy girl, a role that involved presenting awards to race winners and adding glamour to the events.
She quickly gained popularity for her stunning looks and radiant personality. By 1973, she had earned the title of Professional Dragster Association (PDA) queen. She was also crowned queen at the 6th annual US Professional Dragster Championship, which took place at the Orange County International Raceway.
Her presence brought a new level of excitement to drag racing. She often wore 1960s-style go-go boots and fashionable outfits that made her stand out among other trophy girls. Fans and photographers loved capturing her at events, and she became one of the most photographed trophy girls of her era.
Barbara was married and had a daughter named Jet Dougherty. However, little is known about her husband, as she kept that part of her life private.
After a few years in the drag racing scene, Barbara retired from her role as a trophy girl. Sadly, in January 1991, she passed away at the age of 47. Her death was ruled as suicide, but the exact circumstances remain unclear.
Barbara’s legacy in the drag racing world remains strong. In 2016, many years after her passing, photographer Tom West shared old pictures of Barbara from her early days as a trophy girl.
These photos brought her memory back into the spotlight, and her daughter, Jet Dougherty, spoke fondly of her mother’s vibrant and joyful personality.
