NHRA News: Showers steps aside for the foreseeable future (12/31/2003)

Showers steps aside for the foreseeable future

12/31/2003

"I will return but only when the time is right for me."
– Reggie Showers

Pro Stock Bike favorite Reggie Showers, the double-amputee who is coming off a career-best season, has announced he will not compete in 2004. The 39-year-old, Philadelphia native cited the lack of necessary funding and the desire to spend more time with his family as the reasons for taking the year off.

"After much thought, I am going to sit out the '04 POWERade season," Showers said. "I could easily race and finish somewhere in the top 10 but after the effort that was put forth this year by myself, Prosthetic Design, and Star Racing, the POWERade Championship is my only goal. Pro Stock Bike, like all of the other professional classes, is so expensive to race and until I secure the needed funding to win the championship I will not compete."

Showers, whose remarkable comeback from a childhood accident where he lost both legs just below the knees, teamed with championship tuner George Bryce of Star Racing in 2003. The association delivered immediate results as Showers scored the first two national event wins of his career in Indianapolis and Memphis. He also advanced to the championship round in Chicago, earned the first No. 1 qualifying position of his career in Brainerd, and recorded his quickest elapsed time 7.07 seconds and fastest top speed of 194.27 mph.

Showers had a breakout year in 2003, with two
victories and a win in the K&N Pro Bike Klash.
Racers Edge Photography

The highlight of Showers and Bryce's year came during the prestigious U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis where the Prosthetic Design team won both the biggest race in drag racing and the K&N Filters Pro Stock Bike Klash, an annual all-star event for the top eight qualifiers of the previous year.

"It was an unbelievable opportunity for me to coach Reggie to his NHRA victories and watch him complete his life story of overcoming the odds and achieving his goals," Bryce said. "Everyone worked hard to form a remarkable team. The entire Star Racing family will miss him and we look forward to the day when he can return to the tour."

Tracy Slemker, the owner of Prosthetic Design, stands behind his rider's decision. "Reggie has come far, and we've been there with him all the way over the last four years, and we're proud of what we've accomplished together," he said. "This year he's shown potential sponsors what he can do with a well-funded engine program and a dedicated, professional crew chief. I'm sure that when he chooses to come back to the NHRA, he can come back strong."

"Sitting out was a tough decision to make but I have to make it clear that drag racing does not define who Reggie Showers is," Showers said. "I am blessed to have so many more talents other than racing motorcycles. I am truly looking forward to developing those talents in other areas of my life.

Showers plans to devote more time to his family and numerous speaking engagements across the country.
Racers Edge Photography

"I have immediately expanded my motivational speaking engagements. During the last few seasons I had to turn down so many requests due to my racing commitments. I am very passionate about reaching out to the world with my personal message of positivism and believing in yourself to accomplish any goal.

"This semi-retirement will also allow me more time at home with my family. My daughter Autumn is 5 and before you know it she will be asking for my motorcycle keys. I want to be there for my parents as they age as well. I am very excited about this new path that God is leading me down. Thank to Racers For Christ for all their support."

Showers was quick to point out that his days as an active participant in the NHRA's professional ranks are not over.

"I can promise you that I will return to NHRA POWERade competition but only when the time is right for me," Showers said. "I am currently building a sportsman motorcycle that will allow me to stay sharp with my riding skills. Much thanks to all of the NHRA fans, staff, media, ESPN, and my sponsors. And to my competition, I hope you guys are ready for me when I return, more determined than ever."

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