Barbara Roufs was more than a trophy girl, she was the radiant heart of 1970s drag racing. With her long brown hair, bright smile, and lively spirit, she became one of the most admired figures at California racetracks. Known as the drag racing queen, Barbara brought beauty, confidence, and charm to a sport built on speed and power. Fans loved her warm personality and unforgettable style, which perfectly captured the bold energy of the decade. Though her life ended tragically in 1991, her story continues to inspire racing fans around the world. This Barbara Roufs biography celebrates her remarkable journey, legacy, and timeless impact.
Quick Bio of Barbara Roufs
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Barbara Jean Roufs |
| Popular As | Drag Racing Queen / Trophy Girl of the 1970s |
| Born | 1944 (approx.) |
| Birthplace | California, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Religion | Christian |
| Occupation | Drag Racing Trophy Girl, Model |
| Years Active | Late 1960s – Early 1970s |
| Famous Title | 1973 Professional Dragster Association (PDA) Queen |
| Major Event | U.S. Professional Dragster Championship at Orange County International Raceway (OCIR) |
| Parents | Father – Wayne Eldon RileyMother – Thelma Ruby Riley |
| Siblings | Vivian Deaton, James Riley, Bruce Riley, and adopted brother Ben Gube |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Children | 1 Daughter (commonly known as Jet Dougherty) |
| Residence | Clovis / Fresno, California, USA |
| Date of Death | January 1991 |
| Age at Death | 47 Years |
| Reported Cause of Death | Believed to be suicide (not officially confirmed) |
| Resting Place | California, United States |
| Known For | Being the face of 1970s drag racing and inspiring women’s representation in motorsports |
| Legacy | Remembered for her beauty, charisma, professionalism, and cultural influence on motorsport promotion |
| Photographer Association | Tom West – Noted drag racing photographer who captured her iconic images |
Early Life and Background
Barbara grew up in California, where car culture was a huge part of everyday life. The sounds of engines, the smell of burnt rubber, and the sight of cars speeding down drag strips were all normal parts of her world. She came from the Fresno and Clovis area, known for its love of racing and community events.
Her childhood combined creativity and excitement. Her mother worked in beauty and music, and her father loved speed and machines. These two sides, elegance and energy, helped shape Barbara’s personality. From an early age, she learned how to stay confident in front of people and how to appreciate the thrill of racing.
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Age, Height, and Nationality
Barbara Roufs was American and was 47 years old when she passed away in 1991. She stood around 5 feet 5 inches tall and was known for her slim figure, brown eyes, and long brown hair. Her 1970s style, short shorts, go-go boots, and colorful outfits, reflected the bold fashion of that time. She had a calm and friendly presence that made everyone around her feel welcome.
Family Background
Father – Wayne Eldon Riley
Barbara’s father, Wayne Eldon Riley, was a big influence on her love for motorsports. He enjoyed riding motorcycles and often took part in local racing events at Kearney Bowl. His adventurous spirit and love for speed inspired Barbara to embrace the excitement of the racing world.
Mother – Thelma Ruby Riley
Her mother, Thelma Ruby Riley, owned a beauty salon in Clovis, California, for many years and also played the organ at her local church. She was known for her kindness, hard work, and service to the community. From her mother, Barbara learned about style, dedication, and grace under pressure.
Siblings
Barbara grew up with several siblings, Vivian Deaton, James, and Bruce, as well as an adopted brother, Ben Gube. Their busy household gave her a strong sense of family and confidence. Having many siblings helped her develop the outgoing and friendly personality that made her stand out later in life.
Career Highlights in Drag Racing
Barbara entered the drag racing world in the late 1960s, a time when the sport was becoming bigger and more exciting. The cars were faster, the crowds were louder, and the events were full of color and music. Trophy girls were an important part of these shows, and Barbara quickly became a fan favorite.
In 1973, she earned the title of Professional Dragster Association (PDA) Queen. She also served as the queen for the U.S. Professional Dragster Championship at the famous Orange County International Raceway (OCIR). These titles marked the peak of her career and made her one of the most recognizable women in drag racing.
She worked with well-known photographer Tom West, whose photos of her at the racetrack have become timeless pieces of drag racing history. Her confident poses, friendly smile, and natural charm made her the perfect face for the sport. Barbara brought energy, style, and professionalism to every event she attended.
Rise to Fame and Cultural Impact
Barbara Roufs became a symbol of a new era in motorsports. Earlier trophy girls wore long dresses and hats, but Barbara and others of her time embraced a modern, fun, and fashionable style. Her look long hair, go-go boots, and mini shorts reflected the freedom and excitement of the 1970s.
Fans loved her because she seemed genuine and approachable. She talked to drivers and fans alike, making everyone feel part of the moment. She also changed how people viewed women in the racing world. Barbara proved that a trophy girl could be more than a pretty face, she could be confident, professional, and respected.
Marriage and Personal Life
Barbara took the last name Roufs after marriage. Though she was often seen in public at racing events, she kept her personal life very private. Few details are known about her marriage, and she preferred to keep her family out of the spotlight. Friends and coworkers from the track described her as warm, kind, and humble, someone who balanced fame with grace.
Life on the racing circuit was demanding. It meant long drives, late nights, and endless weekends of events. Barbara managed it all while maintaining her calm and cheerful personality. That balance between public life and private care was one of the reasons people respected her so much.
Barbara Roufs’ Children
Many reports mention that Barbara had a daughter who later spoke warmly about her mother when old photos appeared online. The daughter described Barbara as a loving, happy person who enjoyed life and cared deeply for her family. Some sources name her Jet Dougherty, though details differ among reports.
Motherhood was an important part of Barbara’s life. Even with a busy schedule, she stayed close to her family and kept her home life private. Her love for her child shows the caring side behind the confident public image fans saw at the track.
The Tragic Death of Barbara Roufs
Barbara Roufs passed away in January 1991 at the age of 47. Some reports say her death was by suicide, but official details are not publicly available. Out of respect for her family, most people speak of her passing with care and empathy.
Her death was a shock to the drag racing community. Fans and friends mourned the loss of someone who brought life and joy to every event. Her story reminds us that even the brightest smiles can hide personal pain. The memory of her warmth and kindness continues to live on among those who knew her.
Legacy and Remembrance
Barbara’s legacy continues through photographs, memories, and the admiration of fans who still celebrate her. Pictures taken by Tom West and others keep her spirit alive for new generations. She helped define the image of the 1970s drag racing queen and inspired many women who followed her path in motorsports.
Her influence also lives on in how modern racing events present themselves. The blend of professionalism and fun that she brought to the stage became part of the sport’s identity. Many racing hosts and models today carry forward that same energy, confident, friendly, and engaging, just like Barbara did.
Barbara Roufs’ Net Worth and Lifestyle
There are no verified records of Barbara Roufs’ net worth, but during her peak years, she likely lived comfortably from her work as a trophy queen and model. She appeared at big racing events, photo shoots, and public ceremonies that paid well for the time.
Her lifestyle was busy but not flashy. She worked hard, prepared carefully for each event, and took pride in her appearance and professionalism. Those who knew her said she was always on time, always kind, and always ready to represent the sport with class.
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Conclusion
Barbara Roufs remains one of the most unforgettable figures in the history of American drag racing. She came from California’s vibrant car culture and became a drag racing queen whose charm and confidence helped shape the sport’s image in the 1970s.
Her life had both light and shadow, moments of joy, success, and sadness. Yet her legacy endures through her photos, the stories of her kindness, and the influence she left on motorsport culture. Decades after her passing, the name Barbara Roufs still stands for grace, beauty, and strength, a true symbol of an era when drag racing was as much about people as it was about speed.
FAQs About Barbara Roufs
Who was Barbara Roufs?
Barbara Roufs was an American drag racing trophy queen and model from California. She rose to fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s for her beauty, charm, and role in major racing events, including the Professional Dragster Association (PDA) Championships.
Why is Barbara Roufs called the Drag Racing Queen?
She earned the title “Drag Racing Queen” after being crowned the PDA Queen in 1973, representing the peak of her career. Her confident style and stage presence made her a standout figure in Southern California’s racing scene.
When and where was Barbara Roufs born?
Barbara Roufs was born in California, United States, in the mid-1940s. She spent most of her life in the Clovis and Fresno areas, where her love for motorsports began.
What was Barbara Roufs known for?
Barbara was best known for her work as a trophy girl and for her influence on 1970s drag racing culture. Her glamorous appearance, friendly personality, and professionalism helped change how women were seen in motorsports.
Did Barbara Roufs have children?
Yes. Barbara had one daughter, often identified as Jet, who later shared loving memories of her mother when old racing photos resurfaced online.
How did Barbara Roufs die?
Barbara Roufs tragically passed away in January 1991 at the age of 47. Some reports suggest her death was by suicide, though official records have not confirmed the exact cause.
What was Barbara Roufs’ legacy in drag racing?
Her legacy lives through vintage photos, fan tributes, and her lasting influence on how racing events celebrate both beauty and talent. Barbara’s image remains a symbol of the golden era of 1970s drag racing.
Where is Barbara Roufs remembered today?
Barbara Roufs is remembered across racing history websites, vintage photo collections by Tom West, and fan communities that honor her as one of the most iconic women in American drag racing.
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