The Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America went big for its 25th anniversary edition, with the longest route in the history of the philanthropic event. Tuesday, the charity indicated that its impact posted momentous numbers, both in mileage and fund-raising.
The charity ride announced Tuesday that this year’s event raised more than $1.7 million to support the Victory Junction camp for children with chronic illnesses. Additionally, a $2 million donation was provided to the Kyle Petty Charity Ride Trust by the family of late charity rider David Andreas.
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Petty, the 59-year-old former driver who now works for NBC Sports as a broadcaster and analyst, was among 250 participants in this year’s ride, which stretched some 3,700 miles from Seattle, Washington to Key Largo, Florida from May 3-11. Along the way, ride officials reported being honored by 15 mayoral appearances, making proclamations or offering keys to the city.
“This year’s Ride was amazing! We had beautiful views, crowds at every stop, police escorts the entire trip, a little rain, fun visits with Victory Junction campers, great food and lots of laughs with friends for nine straight days,” Petty said in a release provided by the charitable organization. “When you get 250 people together that care about kids, want to help others and love to ride motorcycles, it’s going to be fun! Riding corner to corner across America just made it more special.”
The Kyle Petty Charity Ride has raised $18.5 million for children’s charities since it began in 1995. Since 2004, it has primarily benefited the Victory Junction camp, established in Randleman, North Carolina to honor the memory of Petty’s son Adam.