Harley-Davidson has announced the signing of dirt tracker Jennifer Snyder to its factory team. Snyder, of Grand Saline, Texas, will join Rich King as the newest member of the Harley-Davidson factory squad, after signing a deal that will see her race in the 2001 AMA and Formula USA dirt track racing series.
Snyder, 17, finished sixth in the final point standings of the Formula USA Pro Singles Series. Although she competed in only seven of the races on the 2000 schedule, Snyder displayed her potential with a fourth-place finish at Texas Motor Speedway and a seventh-place finish at Manzanita Speedway. She also came from the back of the pack to finish seventh at the series finale in Del Mar.
Snyder began her racing career at age 11. Her father, Joe Snyder, created a track on their property so she could train and race. The Pro Singles Series is where she will spend most of her time in 2001, but she will also have opportunities aboard the Harley-Davidson XR750 in the AMA series, as she becomes more familiar with the equipment.
“This is a dream-come-true for me,” said Snyder. “I grew up watching Scott Parker race and I followed his career closely. We both started racing at 11 and he’s been a huge influence on me as far as my racing career is concerned. I’m really excited to be a part of the factory team and race with Rich King as my teammate. Lots of people tell me I’m pretty good for a girl. Hopefully after next season they’ll drop the girl part and recognize me for my racing ability, period!”
In addition to her racing career, Snyder will be finishing her high school studies this year and plans to go on to college.
