When it was announced that Jeff Arend was relieved of his driving duties of the DHL Toyota Funny Car for Team Kalitta, there seemed to be sadness amongst the NHRA community. It was difficult for fans and competitors to digest that one of the most likeable drivers in the sport would be without a ride in 2013.

Everyone can now breathe a little easier. The popular driver has been named as the pilot of the Jim Dunn Racing Funny Car for the 2013 Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. Having recently signed a new primary sponsor in Grime Boss, Jim Dunn Racing has focused its goals on making the Countdown to the Championship and they feel Jeff’s veteran driving skills will help them achieve their goal.

Jim Dunn Racing experienced quite a difficult season last year. The team struggled mightily, suffering 14 DNQs and winning just four rounds of racing. The team also experienced three massive explosions that destroyed three Funny Car bodies and a lot of parts.

Affectionately known as “Big Jim” Dunn, the owner and crew chief is very excited about the direction of his team for the new season. “The first thing we did when Grime Boss committed to being our primary sponsor was to immediately begin purchasing new engines, heads, blowers and the related components to increase our level of performance. Having a world-class driver, and fellow Southern California resident, like Jeff Arend pilot the car is something I’m really looking forward to this coming season.”

Driving for Team Kalitta last season, Arend finished 10^th in the Funny Car standings with a race win and an appearance in the Traxxas Nitro Funny Car Shootout. The native Canadian is equally excited to be joining Jim Dunn’s organization. “I am really excited about the upcoming season as well. The Dunn’s have made quite an investment in new parts and we are all expecting to have a great year together” said Funny Car driver, Jeff Arend.  “I’ve known the Dunn’s for many years as fellow competitors and look forward to working with Hall of Fame Crew Chief and former driver, Big Jim Dunn.”