Long-time Victory Rider and NASCAR racer Kyle Petty was featured in the year-end issue of Sports Illustrated magazine for his role in providing hope and enjoyment to chronically ill young campers through the Victory Junction Gang Camp.

The year-end issue is a review of sports highlights and lowlights throughout the year, and Kyle is featured in a brief article titled “Making a Difference.” An excerpt:

“Petty and his wife, Pattie, started the retreat for children with chronic conditions or serious illnesses three years ago in memory of their son, Adam, who had just begun to plan the camp before he was killed in 2000 at age 19 during a Busch Series practice session at New Hampshire. ‘Adam planted the seed,’ says Kyle, 47. ‘Once that was there, maybe his job here was done.’”

The camp is supported completely through donations. While many businesses – including Victory Motorcycles – and individuals such as NASCAR racers and team owners have made significant contributions, the camp in Randleman, N.C., has also received numerous contributions over the years from Victory Riders and groups of riders.