NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

When John Hall makes his return to NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle competition at this weekend’s Virginia NHRA Nationals, his Suzuki will bear the logos of a cause that is an inspiration and passion for the New Haven, Conn.-based racer.

Having spent time in the winner’s circle before leaving the sport to attend to family business, Hall’s return to this weekend’s competition at Virginia Motorsports Park will be especially significant, with the logos of the B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe) national teen defensive driving program adorning his bike, racing suit and helmet.

Founded by multi-time Top Fuel drag racing champion Doug Herbert after the tragic loss of his two sons in a car crash in 2008, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit provides free lifesaving defensive driver training in weekend sessions across the country. B.R.A.K.E.S. addresses the number-one cause of death among teens – car crashes – helping improve road safety to prevent other parents from facing the heartbreak of losing a child.

The father of two teens who previously participated in B.R.A.K.E.S. classes, Hall, along with his wife Ivette, decided to team with B.R.A.K.E.S. not only because of their longtime association with Herbert, but also because of the inspiration generated by 14-time national drag racing champion Terry Vance, who donated $1 million to B.R.A.K.E.S. during February’s NHRA Winternationals in Pomona.
 
“We are so honored that John and Ivette have chosen to run with our B.R.A.K.E.S. logo as their contribution to our cause.” Herbert stated. “This is evidence of Terry Vance’s profound influence, as well as the importance of our mission to save lives and make the roadways safer.”

“Beyond his incredible generosity, Terry Vance inspired all of us to do what we can to spread the word about Doug’s program,” Hall said. “For those of us in this drag racing community, it’s essential that we use our platforms to extend the B.R.A.K.E.S. message about the critical importance of teen defensive driving.”

A 2011 graduate of the Frank Hawley and George Bryce Drag Racing program, Hall returns to the drag strip with an impressive resume of on-track success. Most notably, Hall achieved a place in drag racing history in 2013 when he won the prestigious NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis. Later in 2013 Hall followed up with a second career NHRA win in Epping, N.H.