Karen Stalba

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  Karen Stalba is a championship-winning drag racer who competes in the Top Alcohol Dragster class, known for her impressive 5.172-second pass at 280 mph and her 2011 NHRA Northeast Division championship.

  EARLY YEARS

  Hailing from Hammonton, New Jersey, Karen built her foundation in motorsports through the Northeast drag racing scene. While specific details about her childhood are not documented in accessible sources, her early career demonstrates a natural talent and determination that would become hallmarks of her racing style.

  EARLY SUCCESS

  Stalba’s initial racing success came in the competitive NHRA Northeast Division, where she secured the #8 position in the standings. This achievement was bolstered by qualifying runs at Englishtown’s Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series events and multiple round wins that established her as a rising talent. Her early career momentum led to two national event finals appearances, demonstrating her ability to compete at the highest levels of drag racing.

  NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

  • 2010: Secured #8 position in NHRA Northeast Division standings[1].
  • 2011: Won NHRA Northeast Division Top Alcohol Dragster Championship[4].
  • 2020: Purchased a Top Alcohol Dragster operation to return to competition[5].
  • 2021: Returned to Top Alcohol Dragster competition after supporting her children’s Junior racing careers[1][5].
  • 2024: Achieved victory at the Lucas Oil East Regional event[5].

  REPUTATION

  Karen is highly regarded in the drag racing community not only for her driving prowess but also for her resilience and commitment to the sport. After taking a two-year hiatus to start a family, she returned stronger than ever to claim her division championship in 2011. Her career-best 5.172-second pass at 280 mph earned her a No. 1 qualifying position and showcased her exceptional skill behind the wheel. Beyond her racing accomplishments, Stalba is respected for balancing her competitive career with supporting her children’s participation in Junior drag racing, demonstrating her dedication to nurturing the next generation of racers.

  FUTURE GOALS/PLANS

  As of 2025, Karen continues to compete in the NHRA circuit with the support of sponsors including Lucas Oil Products, NGK Spark Plugs, and Hussey Copper. Through Stalba Motorsports, she remains committed to developing young talent in drag racing while pursuing her own aspirations on the track. With her previous close finishes at national events, Stalba likely has her sights set on capturing an NHRA national championship to add to her impressive regional success.

  References:

  NHRA Northeast Division Records
  Stalba Racing Profile
  Stalba Motorsports Website
  NHRA Championship Archives
  Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Results