CRETE, Ill. December 19, 2008:  The now two-time Mountain Motor World Champ, Pete Berner, is picking up the pace this winter, preparing to defend his title in the ’09 season. Despite economic setbacks across the industry, Berner hopes to see continued growth of the sport and is expanding his own operation over the winter, including the addition of a 56 foot, all aluminum semi, currently in construction at T&E Auto Haulers in Herscher, Illinois.

“We’re keeping busy this off season. We’re working hard on our new engine program, refreshing the car, and getting a new truck and trailer, so it’s not much of an ‘off’ season for us. The new rig is coming along great at T&E. They do excellent work, and I’m looking forward to taking delivery of the semi. Richard Freeman with Elite Trailers helped us put this deal together so many thanks go out to him for his help.

“We don’t just want to maintain our level of success from last year. We want to continue to grow our operation, always searching for more power, efficiency and speed. We’re working hard to improve those things this winter so that we can successfully defend our Championship title.”