Sat, 16 Dec 2000, 09:14 AM Bernstein Joins PRO National Warmup Field

Courtesy of Mike Lewis

INDIANAPOLIS -- Add Kenny Bernstein's Budweiser King to the list of NHRA title contenders scheduled for pre-season testing at the PRO National Warmup January 19 - 21 at Southwestern International Raceway in Tucson, Arizona. The "King of Speed" is preparing for 2001 with special intensity, having announced a two-year plan to retire from driving the Bud King dragster after the 2002 season.

Bernstein added a note to his retirement plan, stating that he might hang up his helmet after the 2001 season if he wins the NHRA Winston Championship this year.

Two of the leading threats to the NHRA Winston Top Fuel title, held by Gary Scelzi, are also planning their "spring training" in Tucson. Mike Dunn, who led most of the 1999 campaign before slipping to third behind Tony Schumacher and Scelzi, rebounded dramatically in a short three-race stint in the New York Yankees dragster of Gwynn/Steinbrenner racing at the close of 2000. Joe Amato's team dragster will also be in Tucson with a new driver yet to be announced.

Testing is scheduled January 19 - 21 from 10 PM to 6 PM daily, and will be open to all NHRA Winston and Federal Mogul teams. Spectator tickets are available from Southwestern International Raceway in advance or at the gate. For information, contact PRO at 317-280-1320 or SIR at 520-762-9700.