Adam Petty’s Legacy of Love and Possibility
In 1999, a lanky, wide-smiling teenager visited Camp Boggy Creek, a SeriousFun camp in Florida, with his dad and knew it was his calling to bring a similar camp to the hills of North Carolina where he grew up. This young man was up-and-coming racecar driver Adam Petty—son of NASCAR driver Kyle Petty, grandson of racing legend Richard Petty, and great-grandson of NASCAR pioneer Lee Petty.
This fourth-generation driver was just beginning his own racing career while still living at home—but Adam was wise beyond his years. Passion drove him both on the track and in his desire to help others. Between races, Adam was often found in pediatric hospitals visiting children with challenging medical conditions. After his visit to Camp Boggy Creek, he began dreaming of creating a place where children living with complex medical and physical needs could experience the joys of childhood in a safe, yet exhilarating environment.
Adam Petty’s Legacy of Love and Possibility
In 1999, a lanky, wide-smiling teenager visited Camp Boggy Creek, a SeriousFun camp in Florida, with his dad and knew it was his calling to bring a similar camp to the hills of North Carolina where he grew up. This young man was up-and-coming racecar driver Adam Petty—son of NASCAR driver Kyle Petty, grandson of racing legend Richard Petty, and great-grandson of NASCAR pioneer Lee Petty.
This fourth-generation driver was just beginning his own racing career while still living at home—but Adam was wise beyond his years. Passion drove him both on the track and in his desire to help others. Between races, Adam was often found in pediatric hospitals visiting children with challenging medical conditions. After his visit to Camp Boggy Creek, he began dreaming of creating a place where children living with complex medical and physical needs could experience the joys of childhood in a safe, yet exhilarating environment.
One year later, Adam Petty tragically lost his life in a racing accident at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. He was only 19 years old.
To honor Adam’s memory, the Petty family gathered their strength and challenged themselves, their friends, and the NASCAR community to bring his dream to life. With land donated by Richard and Lynda Petty, the family launched a capital campaign in 2002. Dollar by dollar, donations from corporations, individuals, and foundations helped build what would become Victory Junction, a NASCAR-themed camp located in Randleman, N.C. Adam’s legacy of love was realized when the camp opened its gates to its first campers in June of 2004.
“It was always one of Adam’s dreams. And when we lost Adam, then the family got together and said, you know, if he was really interested in this, we’ll pursue that deal.”
— Richard Petty
Honoring Adam at Camp
Adam’s presence is felt throughout Victory Junction. One of the most iconic buildings on camp is Adam’s Race Shop, a vibrant, interactive space designed to resemble Adam’s own racecar. It’s a place where campers can explore, play, and connect with the spirit of racing and adventure that Adam loved so deeply.
You’ll also see the number 45—Adam’s car number—proudly displayed across camp. It’s more than a number; it’s a symbol of Adam’s vision, his compassion, and the drive that continues to fuel everything we do at Victory Junction.
“When I see the joy and the smiles this camp brings to kids and their families, I can still feel Adam’s giving spirit and see his smile.”
— Kyle Petty
Honoring Adam at Camp
Adam’s presence is felt throughout Victory Junction. One of the most iconic buildings on camp is Adam’s Race Shop, a vibrant, interactive space designed to resemble Adam’s own racecar. It’s a place where campers can explore, play, and connect with the spirit of racing and adventure that Adam loved so deeply.
You’ll also see the number 45—Adam’s car number—proudly displayed across camp. It’s more than a number; it’s a symbol of Adam’s vision, his compassion, and the drive that continues to fuel everything we do at Victory Junction.
“When I see the joy and the smiles this camp brings to kids and their families, I can still feel Adam’s giving spirit and see his smile.”
— Kyle Petty
