Barbara Roufs: The Stunning Drag Racing Icon Fans Still Remember

Have you ever heard of someone who wasn’t a racer but still became a star at the racetrack? That was Barbara Roufs. She didn’t drive the cars — she stood beside them, smiling, handing out trophies, and bringing joy to every event.

In the 1970s, Barbara became one of the most loved and remembered trophy girls in drag racing history. Her beauty, confidence, and fun personality made her a favorite at every race. Even today, fans still talk about her and share her pictures online.

In this article, we’ll explore her life — from her early days in California to her rise in the racing world, her personal life, and the legacy she left behind. Let’s begin with who Barbara really was.

Barbara Roufs Quick Bio

Who Was Barbara Roufs?

Barbara Roufs was a popular drag racing trophy girl in the early 1970s. She became known for her striking looks, long hair, go-go boots, and wide smile. But more than that, she became a symbol of fun and excitement in racing events.

She stood next to race cars, handed out trophies, and posed for photos with winners. Even though she wasn’t a driver, Barbara was just as famous as some of the racers. People loved her energy and style. She made every event feel special.

Barbara stood out from other trophy girls because she was a bit older, 29 years old when she entered the scene. At a time when most girls were in their early twenties, her confidence made her shine even more.

Barbara Roufs’ Childhood and Early Life

Barbara was born in 1944 in sunny California, United States. She grew up in a family that was full of life, energy, and creativity. Her childhood was spent in Southern California, which was also the heart of car culture at the time.

Her home was filled with music, motorcycles, and family gatherings. Her parents were well-known and respected in their community. Barbara had a strong upbringing, filled with family support and a love for movement and adventure.

Those early years helped shape the confident and stylish woman she became later in life. From a young age, she was surrounded by beauty, speed, and strong family values — all of which played a big role in her drag racing journey.

Meet the Family of Barbara Roufs

Barbara’s parents were Wayne Eldon Riley and Thelma Ruby Riley. Her father loved motorcycles and even raced at a place called the Kearney Bowl. He also enjoyed fishing and spent weekends with the family on a houseboat. He was fun, active, and loved life.

Her mother, Thelma, was a talented woman too. She owned a beauty salon in Clovis for over 50 years and also played the organ in several churches. She was a kind and faith-filled woman who cared deeply for her community.

Barbara had three biological siblings — Vivian Deaton, James Riley, and Bruce Riley — and one adopted brother named Ben Gube. Her family was later honored by being the first couple inducted into the Clovis Hall of Fame, showing just how loved they were.

How Barbara Roufs Entered the Drag Racing World

In the late 1960s and early 70s, drag racing was changing. Cars were faster. The crowds were bigger. And everything felt more exciting. That’s when Barbara found her way into the scene — not as a driver, but as a trophy girl.

Back then, trophy girls were part of the show. They posed in victory lane, stood in front of race cars, and handed out prizes. But Barbara brought something different. She had style, confidence, and a fun attitude that fans couldn’t get enough of.

Unlike older trophy girls who wore long dresses and hats, Barbara embraced the new 70s look — short shorts, bright tops, and no bras. Her long straight hair and bold fashion made her unforgettable. People didn’t just come to see the races — they came to see Barbara Roufs.

Barbara Roufs’ Rise as a Drag Racing Queen

Barbara didn’t just show up — she took over the trophy girl scene. In 1973, she was crowned PDA Queen by the Professional Dragster Association, a huge honor at the time. She also became the queen of the 6th Annual U.S. Professional Dragster Championship.

At every event, she stood proudly next to the winners, smiling for the cameras and hyping up the crowd. Racers were proud to pose with her. Fans shouted her name. Photographers captured her look again and again. She was everywhere.

Even though she wasn’t behind the wheel, Barbara became one of the most famous faces in drag racing. Her mix of beauty, charm, and excitement helped her become a true icon of the 1970s.

Barbara Roufs’ Style and Beauty That Made Her Famous

Barbara’s look was pure 70s magic. She often wore go-go boots, tight tank tops, and colorful short shorts. Her long brown hair flowed in the wind, and her bright smile could light up any track.

She wasn’t just “pretty” — she had a look that was powerful and fresh. She looked bold, confident, and proud of who she was. That’s why so many fans remembered her.

Her pictures were used in magazines, posters, and racing ads. People bought t-shirts with her image. She helped brands sell clothing and racing gear just by being herself. That’s how Barbara Roufs became a fashion icon in the racing world.

Barbara Roufs’ Personal Life and Family

While Barbara was a star on the track, she also had a quiet life at home. She lived in Fresno, California, with her family. She was married, though her husband’s name has never been shared publicly.

At 29 years old, Barbara gave birth to her only child — a daughter named Jet Dougherty. Even with a busy racing life, she stayed connected to her family and cared deeply about her role as a mother.

She didn’t share much about her private life with fans, but those close to her said she was warm, loving, and grounded. Fame never made her forget who she was — a daughter, a mother, and a strong woman with a good heart.

Why Barbara Roufs Stepped Away From the Spotlight

After a few bright years in the world of drag racing, Barbara Roufs slowly began to step away. She was no longer seen at events. Her photos stopped showing up in magazines. Fans started to wonder where she went.

There was no big announcement or farewell. Barbara simply chose to leave the spotlight and live a quieter life. Some believe she wanted more time for her family. Others think she just wanted peace after so much public attention.

Whatever the reason, her exit felt sudden to many fans. One day she was everywhere — the next, she was gone. But even though she left the racetrack, people still remembered her beauty, charm, and joyful spirit.

How Her Photos Came Back Years Later

In 2016, something special happened. A racing photographer named Tom West posted some old photos of Barbara from her trophy girl days. The pictures showed Barbara smiling beside cars, full of life and energy.

The internet loved it. Fans started sharing the photos. People who had never heard of Barbara before became curious. And those who remembered her felt a wave of nostalgia.

Then something even more touching happened. Barbara’s daughter, Jet Dougherty, saw the pictures online. She wrote a sweet message saying how proud she was to see her mom remembered this way. She said the photos showed Barbara at her happiest.

It was a beautiful moment — a daughter honoring her mother, and fans reconnecting with a legend.

The Tragic Death of Barbara Roufs

Sadly, Barbara Roufs passed away in January 1991. She was only 47 years old. Her daughter later confirmed that Barbara died by suicide. The reasons behind it were never made public.

This news shocked many. How could someone so full of life and light be gone like that? It reminded everyone that even the happiest-looking people can be silently hurting inside.

At that time, people didn’t talk about mental health as much as they do today. Barbara may have been struggling in ways no one saw. Her death was a sad reminder that we all need support, care, and someone to talk to — no matter how strong we seem on the outside.

Why Barbara Roufs Is Still Loved Today

Even after all these years, Barbara Roufs is still loved by racing fans around the world. Her photos from the 1970s are shared every day. Her style, smile, and energy continue to inspire.

She wasn’t just a trophy girl. She was a symbol of a fun and fearless time in racing. People remember how she brought excitement to every event. She made fans smile, and racers proud to stand beside her.

Barbara’s memory lives on not just because of her beauty, but because of how she made people feel. That’s something that never fades.

What We Can Learn from Barbara Roufs’ Life

Barbara’s story is more than just racing and fame. It’s about a woman who shined brightly, touched hearts, and left a mark — even though her life ended too soon.

Her life teaches us to look deeper. A big smile can hide pain. A confident person can still feel lost inside. That’s why it’s so important to check in on each other — and ourselves.

She also reminds us to celebrate people for who they are — not just how they look or what they do. Barbara brought joy to thousands. And even though she’s gone, her story still brings lessons, memories, and inspiration.

Final Thoughts

Barbara Roufs was more than a pretty face on the racetrack. She was a proud woman, a loving mother, and a true icon of her time. She brought style, fun, and heart to the world of drag racing — and she did it with grace.

Her life had both sunshine and sadness. But today, fans continue to celebrate the bright moments she gave them. Her legacy is still alive — in photos, in memories, and in the hearts of those who still remember her.

May her story always remind us to be kind, to stay curious, and to never forget the people who brought light to the world.