The NASCAR community and fans remembered Adam Petty on Tuesday, 15 years after his fatal crash at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
He was the first fourth-generation athlete to compete in the highest levels of a major professional sport when he made his lone Cup start April 2, 2000, at Texas Motor Speedway. He finished 40th because of an engine failure.
Petty, the son of Kyle Petty, grandson of Richard and great-grandson of Lee, was 19 when he crashed May 12, 2000. Inspired by Adam Petty’s desire to help children, the family created the Victory Junction Gang Camp, which provides life-changing camping experiences for children with serious illnesses.
Adam, you’ll always be in our hearts. Thank you for your inspiration to create a place that instills happiness. pic.twitter.com/ERLvc0UfHJ
— Victory Junction (@VictoryJunction) May 12, 2015
Remembering Adam Petty on this day... Thank you to our fans for supporting @VictoryJunction! pic.twitter.com/asJvKGQ8Oy
— Petty Family Found. (@PettyFoundation) May 12, 2015
May 12.....Remembering Adam Petty today. What could have been......
— Jack Kromer (@kromerpics) May 12, 2015
Adam & Richard @DISupdates '81 @kylepetty pic.twitter.com/DunEgtPlJT
Thinking of @kylepetty and my best friends today. Love you @veloaustin. Missing AKP today and always. #adampetty
— Kristy Labonte (@KristyLabonte) May 12, 2015
Every May 12th I'm sad for what was and what would have been. Miss him and his break down on quality of bubble gum. pic.twitter.com/5Wh3i9hKlw
— Matt Yocum (@MattYocum) May 12, 2015
Remembering Adam Petty who we lost 15 years ago today! Gone way to soon. pic.twitter.com/RmTTUP6tKK
— Chevy84 (@chevychevelle48) May 12, 2015
