Drag racer community supports one of their own

Time to rev up your engines. Local drag racers are burning rubber to help raise money for one special teacher.

“Drag racing to me is exciting days when you get to run your car,” said Angela Stas, a second grade teacher at Ririe Elementary School. “Whether you win or lose, it doesn’t matter as long as you get to run your car. It’s fun.”

Stas is a major member of the drag race circuit around Idaho. She’s won trophies and awards, even beating out some of the best with her impressive driving skills.

“Me and my wife have always done everything together,” said Kip Stas, Angela’s husband. “I talked her into getting a car, she bought her own car and I created a monster. She probably loves it more than I do.”

Back in 2011, the drag racer added another battle to her plate. Her fight with cancer.

“It has been rocky,” Stas said. “It has been good at times. It’s just one of those journeys you have to continue on.”

After a recent visit to the doctor, things have become a bit more difficult.

This drag racer won’t let these new circumstances slow her down. She keeps her spirits high and fights back even harder.

“Everyday is a new day,” Stas said. “When I can get up and do everything I want to do, I’m fine with that. I’m good with that.”

Stas is working with some of the best oncologists in Chicago, while having to travel every three weeks.

Her friends at “Midnight Muscle Car Club” know that treatment and travel costs will be finically straining on Stas and her husband.

To show their support they help put on a benefit at sage raceway with raffles, silent auctions, and of course lots of racing.

“It’s been amazing,” said Adam Anderson. “It’s been amazing how much support we’ve had. People that know ang have not even hesitated to either help out with their time, donations or money.”

They expect hundreds across Southeast Idaho to turn up and let Stas know they are there for her.

“I wouldn’t be surprised to see 50 or 60 cars turn out for her,” said Brady Talbot.

Stas knows she will not have to cross this finish line alone.

“It’s great,” Stas said. “I couldn’t ask for better friends, I couldn’t ask for a better husband.”

Racing for the “Angie Stas Benefit” starts at 7 p.m. Friday night at the Sage Raceway in Idaho Falls.

All race fees, silent auction, and raffle proceeds will go to Angela and Kip Stas.

The racer entry fee for a “Test N’ Tune” and “100 ft. Race” is $35.

The cost for spectators ages 12 and up is $10. Children under 11 get in for free.