Jimmy explained the upgrades to us in Las Vegas, saying, "We widened the roll cage to accept more padding for Kenny. Next, we replaced the existing carbon fiber roll cage shields with titanium, and also added titanium plate on the sides of the cockpit area. We actually had a head start, since Kenny had Murf use titanium plate behind the driver's compartment, as most Funny Cars aren't built that way." Going forward, we may see more retrofits to these cars, as additional analysis is conducted. At this writing, these upgrades certainly seem to be a step in the right direction.

From our point of view, the Monster Energy/Lucas Oil Funny Car is well on its way to building yet another chapter in the stellar career of Kenny Bernstein. After all, some of the best minds in the universe have stated that we're only as good as the people we surround ourselves with. Obviously, Kenny has surrounded himself with a great bunch of guys who've worked tirelessly to get this program up to speed. We hope you've enjoyed going along for the ride with the Monster Energy/Lucas Oil Funny Car as it went from raw materials to featured performer. We've certainly enjoyed bringing it to you. DR


Five minutes with Jimmy Walsh

DR: What's been the biggest hurdle getting settled at KBR?
JW: We're trying to accomplish things in six weeks that other teams had two months to get sorted out. Plus, we're trying to do all this and race the car competitively at the same time.

DR: What were your feelings on how things developed in Gainesville?
JW: It was good for me because I was unfamiliar with (tuning) the Funny Car. The guys all worked hard and I felt like I was able to give them something for their efforts.

DR: How did Kenny react to the performance of the car in Gainesville?
JW: I could tell the pressure was off when we qualified. He was really happy to get in the show and going a couple of rounds was the icing on the cake. With a little bit more luck, we could have been in the final.

DR: What's your biggest challenge from here on out?
JW: Job one is just getting more familiar with this short-wheelbase car, since I've been around Top Fuel Dragsters for so long. I feel as though the consistency will come once we have a solid handle on what this car wants. We just need more time, but I think we'll be fine.

DR: How are things between you and your former teammates?
JW: Dexter, J.R. and I are still good friends and Evan Knoll remains a close friend of mine, as well. Good relationships don't change, because every racer out here realizes this is business now - it's not just a drag race anymore. All of our livelihoods depend on what we do today and in the future. I left them all my notes, and as you can see, they're doing well.

DR: What's it like working at Kenny Bernstein Racing?
JW: To me this is like playing for the New York Yankees. Timmy (Richards) was a big factor in my coming here. We've known each other so long, I can bounce ideas off him and he knows he can do the same. There was another benefit to coming onboard here, as both teams have really pulled together, and that's important for all of us. I couldn't be happier to be here.

DR: I wish you all the best, Jimmy. And please say hello to your brother for me.
JW: I'll be sure to tell Bill you were asking for him. And thanks for working so hard on this story. I appreciate your concern for explaining things to the fans after all the things that were spread on the Internet. Please keep in touch.