Barbara Roufs, an American model known for her iconic long hair and role as a drag race trophy girl, tragically took her own life at the age of 47.
In January 1991, the United States lost a talented drag racing champion, Barbara Roufs. Despite her tragic death, she continues to serve as a source of inspiration for competitors, being recognized as one of the most remarkable athletes in the sport.
A Trophy Girl for the American Drag Race was born in 1944, specifically in Southern California, which is also the birthplace of Barbara.
Barbara is well-known for her exceptional beauty as a young woman. Additionally, she has greatly enhanced the group’s liveliness and happiness.
Barbara passed away in 1991 at the age of 47. This brief biography provides information about her career, financial status, and marriage. Hence, the story of Barbara Roufs and the circumstances surrounding her death are succinctly outlined below.
Fast Information About Barbara Roufs
Barbara Roufs, also known as Racing Trophy Girl, was a female American born in California, United States in 1944. She passed away in January 1991 at the age of 47. She identified as Caucasian and followed the Christian religion. Barbara was married and had one child, Jet Dougherty. She was 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighed 55 kg. Her parents were Thelma Ruby Riley and Wayne Eldon Riley, and she had four siblings named Vivian Deaton, James, Bruce, and Ben Gube. Barbara’s profession was being a Trophy Girl and a Model.
The Life of Barbara Roufs Before Her Passing Away
Barbara Roufs became a trophy girl in the early 1970s when the drag racing industry had grown from its peak in the 1960s. The newer model of vehicles had replaced the older ones, with the driver’s seat now located behind the engine in fuelers instead of dragsters. As time passed, auto technology improved, resulting in better race cars. As a result, the prizes for race participants also changed. Women’s hair became longer, their shorts became shorter, and their bras were burned.
In the heyday of the Professional Dragster Association on the streets of California, Barbara stood out as the perfect trophy girl with her lengthy, sleek hair, breezy tanks, and old-fashioned go-go boots. Her physical attributes and stunning appearance were quintessential for the role, establishing her as a prominent figure in the races and adding an element of thrill and liveliness to the events.
What Was the Professional Life of Roufs Like?
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Roufs took on the role of a drag racing trophy girl. She was crowned victorious at the sixth annual United States Professional Dragster Championship held at the Orange County International Raceway. Additionally, in 1973, Barbara also held the title of PDA (Professional Dragster Association) champion.
Barbara, despite her advanced age, was highly favored by both racers and spectators. Her beauty made her a valuable asset for producers and companies seeking to promote their products to fans of drag racing. As a result, Barbara gained significant recognition and her face became a common sight in advertisements and on t-shirts. She was widely credited for bringing life to the drag racing scene.
In the 1970s, when the drag racing scene was transitioning from its peak in the 1960s, Barbara Roufs played a significant part. As racers began to upgrade their cars with more powerful engines, she presented the victors with trophies. Her stunning appearance also made her a well-known figure in the PDA.
Is Barbara Part of a Family?
At the age of 29, Barbara gave birth to her only child, Jet Dougherty. She was also married, although the identity of her husband, Roufs, remains unknown.
In 2016, there was widespread shock when well-known photographer Tom West shared vintage photographs featuring the daughter of Barbara Roufs.
Jet Dougherty posted a few memories from her mother on Facebook, stating that although her mother’s life was cut short, it was filled with excitement. Despite this, Jet looked forward to finally finding genuine happiness when she saw her mother’s presence online.
In addition, Crystal Dougherty, Rouf’s granddaughter, expressed her delight upon seeing the photos and made the following statement. She acknowledged that she is aware of her physical appeal and is self-assured.
What Was the End of Barbara Rouf’s Life Like?
Jet, the daughter of Barbara, brought up her mother’s passing in 1991. However, it was determined that Roufs’ death was a result of suicide. The reason for carrying out the suicide, however, remained a mystery.
Barbara, who resided in Fresno, California with her loved ones, passed away at the age of 47.
What was Barbara’s net worth at the time of her death?
During the 1970s, Barbara worked as a model and a trophy girl for drag races. The exact amount of money she earned as a trophy girl was uncertain, but she did receive a salary for her work. Some of Barbara’s famous images from the 1970s are available on online retail sites. It is estimated that her net worth was $1.5 million.
Final Thoughts
Barbara Roufs, a drag racing champion from Southern California, was not only a successful model but also gained fame in the 1970s when drag racing became a popular trend for showcasing new cars. What set Roufs apart from other trophy girls was her age of 29, as well as her unique style – with her straightened hair and go-go boots inspired by the 1960s. Tragically, Roufs took her own life in January 1991.