30 years of Budweiser and Bernsteins

Words by Susie Arnold
Photos by Jeff Burk, Ron Lewis, James Drew, Todd Dziadosz, Jon Lemoine, Chris Haverly and from the DRO archives

After three decades, the familiar red Budweiser dragster owned and driven by six-time NHRA champion Kenny Bernstein and now piloted by son Brandon, will take its final bow at the season ending Automobile Club of Southern California Finals November 12-15.

The Bernstein family would like to end their 30-year Bud involvement with a trip to victory circle.

“This final race is going to be very emotional for our family,” said Budweiser/Lucas Oil team owner Kenny Bernstein. “We owe a debt of gratitude to all the executives, brand management and sports marketing team members and wholesalers who have touched our lives during our tenure at Anheuser-Busch. All of these folks made it possible for a young man from Texas to follow his dream. We have enjoyed success that was way beyond our wildest imagination when we were a teenager reading hot rod magazines in high school. It’s been a great ride.”