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Cynics in the crowd could say Bernstein's retirement tour was just a big cash grab, but I don't believe that. I know there was money to be made, probably lots of it, but I think Bernstein was being honest back in May 2001 when he said, "You can always let your mind rationalize one more championship, one more race win; but it's time for the gold watch and we feel we can go out at the top of our game." He obviously didn't want to leave as another Richard Petty, who stayed behind the wheel long after his competitiveness was gone, or wind up as another Eddie Hill, an NHRA great who just seemed to fade away when his sponsorship ran out.

That's admirable. That's smart. And I think he truly meant it then -- but unfortunately, in the long run it also seems to have been grossly shortsighted.

Understand, I'm not trying to be critical of Kenny Bernstein the man here. I have no problem with him changing his mind. In fact, I don't blame him; if I were in his position I'd probably do the same. I'm sure it's difficult to give up the thrill of going 330 mph in less than 4.5 seconds -- especially while watching your own son do the same in your own car, all the while knowing you'd still be a threat to win on any given raceday. That's the situation Bernstein was in.

However, I just think that before any high-profile athlete announces an "official" farewell tour, more thought should go into it before they create a huge publicity and marketing campaign. Once that media circus is on the road, they must realize a different standard is established that's not so easy to disregard.

For most of us, the rest of the world will keep turning without incident when we decide to keep working or not, but celebrities and sports figures like Bernstein owe it to their fans to think very carefully and critically before making retirement announcements. They need to be certain of their path -- especially when selling that path as a memento opportunity. Otherwise we're just going to have far too much hollow Michael Jordan, Cher, and now, Kenny Bernstein retirement memorabilia lying around the house.

Race safe,

P.S. Congratulations to fellow Canadian Rob Atchison for winning his career-first IHRA Alcohol Funny Car race in front of a partisan crowd at Grand Bend (Ont.) Motorplex. It was a good day for the Canucks, as Al Billes also won in Pro Mod. Go Canada!

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