Governor McCrory Proclaims March 31 "Richard Petty Day" | Eastern North Carolina Now

    Raleigh, N.C. — Governor Pat McCrory celebrated a living legend today at the Executive Mansion, proclaiming March 31, 2015 "Richard Petty Day" in North Carolina.

    "It's an honor to have 'The King' of NASCAR here today to celebrate what Richard has accomplished for motorsports in our state," said Governor McCrory. "Richard retired in 1992 with the impressive record as the most decorated driver in NASCAR history. Not only that, but off the track he and his family have made great contributions to our state. One such contribution is Victory Junction, a camp which has brought joy to thousands of families of children with serious illnesses and medical conditions."

    Petty was born July 2, 1937, in the Level Cross community of Randolph County. After watching his father on the race track, he joined NASCAR and in 1959 was named NASCAR Rookie of the Year. Upon retirement, he had earned a record 200 career victories and 7 NASCAR Cup championships.

    Governor McCrory visited Victory Junction in July of 2013 in Randleman. The camp is in memory of Adam Petty who died in a crash at the New Hampshire International Speedway while practicing for a race in May 2000.

    The North Carolina General Assembly also celebrated Petty today with a resolution in his honor.

    Click here for a copy of the governor's proclamation.

• Contact: Crystal Feldman
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