Kenny Bernstein was one of the first NHRA drag racing competitors to turn a hobby into a business venture.  Long recognized in the motorsports community as a merchandiser, salesman and avid ambassador for companies he represents, the six-time NHRA champion has aligned his Monster Energy Funny Car team with the U.S. Air Force for a four-race test program beginning with the O’Reilly Super Start Fall Nationals Sept. 19-21.

“The Air Force and its personnel embody  all those qualities that contribute to success in business, namely dedication, commitment, the desire to be No. 1, honesty, and the willingness to go the extra mile,” said Bernstein.   “These are core values that I look for in my employees, and these are the same standards that personify Air Force personnel.  In our business, it’s about team work.  In the Air Force it’s team work that not only defends America but also the air, space and cyberspace of the United States as well. Kenny Bernstein was one of the first NHRA drag racing competitors to turn a hobby into a business venture.  Long recognized in the motorsports community as a merchandiser, salesman and avid ambassador for companies he represents, the six-time NHRA champion has aligned his Monster Energy Funny Car team with the U.S. Air Force for a four-race test program beginning with the O’Reilly Super Start Fall Nationals Sept. 19-21.

“The Air Force and its personnel embody  all those qualities that contribute to success in business, namely dedication, commitment, the desire to be No. 1, honesty, and the willingness to go the extra mile,” said Bernstein.   “These are core values that I look for in my employees, and these are the same standards that personify Air Force personnel.  In our business, it’s about team work.  In the Air Force it’s team work that not only defends America but also the air, space and cyberspace of the United States as well.

“Airmen are trained with the best technology available.  Our Monster Energy Funny Car team is steeped in technology so there are a lot of obvious similarities and crossovers for our sport and potential Air Force recruits.  We are proud to be associated with the men and women of the U.S. Air Force.”

“The Air Force is excited about being part of a pilot program with Kenny Bernstein Racing,” said Capt. Homero S. Martinez III, Chief Event Marketing.  “The first test is at the Texas Motorplex.  Kenny Bernstein has fielded one of the longest running teams with a strong heritage and character that represents hard-work, dedication and teamwork that the Air Force values in all its Airmen who volunteer to serve this great nation.  We are proud to be associated with Kenny Bernstein Racing who represents what the Air Force embodies.

Monster Energy Funny Car driver Tommy Johnson, Jr.  remarked, “I have always admired and respected the men and women of the Air Force. Recently I had an opportunity to interface with the Thunderbirds and I was very impressed with their professionalism and the skill involved with each team member whether it be the mechanical side or flying the exacting tactical maneuvers.  These teams all worked together to keep the planes flying and their pilots safe.

“It’s exactly the same principal we employ on the drag racing side.  My team pays attention to detail to keep me safe.

“I believe there are many NHRA fans that have a passion for our sport and would love to learn more about a career in the Air Force.

“The Texas Motorplex was the first super track that was built.  It yielded, and continues to yield, record numbers.

“In 1999, I was runner-up to John Force.  At that time, we ran the quickest side-by-side run ever.

It takes a lot of commitment, technology, and attention to detail to make these cars run safe and fast.

“We’re excited to have the Air Force riding with us.”

The Kenny Bernstein Racing/U.S. Air Force test program will include Dallas, Memphis, Richmond

and Las Vegas.