NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

Pro Stock Motorcycle team owner and rider Kelly Clontz will take a two-race medical leave of absence and put former world champion L.E. Tonglet aboard her Steamfitters UA Local 602 Suzuki for the Bristol and Norwalk national events.

After several abnormal mammograms and procedures, Clontz will undergo additional non-life-threatening procedures that will force her to miss the two events.

“After talking it over with Chris [Clontz, husband], our partners at the Steamfitters UA Local 602, and Vance & Hines, we feel L.E. is the best choice to continue to field an entry in the category as well as give us the data needed to improve our program for when I return,” Kelly Clontz said. “My health is my No. 1 concern, and in order to continue to chase our dream of winning a Pro Stock Motorcycle world championship, I need to address these health concerns now.”

This will be the first time that this husband and wife team will send someone down the track on the Steamfitters UA Local 602 Suzuki other than Kelly.

“We are confident in a champion like LE to represent our partners as well as our team,” Chris Clontz said. “His experience on a Pro Stock Motorcycle as well as his knowledge as a rider will give us insight to continue to build our program. I am proud of Kelly for listening to her body, setting her competitive nature aside, and making the best decision for our family.”

Kelly Clontz plans to field the Steamfitters UA Local 602 entry at the Mile-High NHRA Nationals July 15-17 in Denver, pending a clear bill of health.