Kyle Petty

Kyle Petty is a successful NASCAR driver, descending and descendent from a line of racers going back to his grandfather Lee Petty. Not only is NASCAR driver Kyle Petty known for his racing achievements but he is also a respected business executive and an outstanding example in the community.

Kyle Petty was born in Randleman of North Carolina, USA on 2 June 1960. His father Richard Petty and grandfather Lee Petty were already big names in the world of NASCAR. A fine sportsman from a young age, Petty was offered a number of scholarships because of his baseball, basketball and football skills. He was even told by an agent in Nashville that he had the potential to become a country music star. Despite this, racing was his chosen career.

In 1979 Kyle Petty began his career in NASCAR. His first race, the Daytona ARCA 200, saw him steering his stock car to victory. Petty also raced in 5 Cup races that same year, even making it into the top-10. The 3rd generation NASCAR driver began his full Cup racing schedule in 1981. That year he came in 12th with his points. Before the 1985 season Kyle Petty left Petty Enterprises to join the Wood Brothers. In 1986 Petty scored his first win at a race in Richmond of Virginia. He ranked 10th in 1986 and moved up to 7th in 1987. Petty raced for SABCO between 1990 and 1997. Two highlights in Petty’s career were when he came 5th in point standings for 1992 and 1993. He decided to take his team back to Level Cross in 1998. In that year he was named NASCAR USG Person of the Year. Petty continues to race under the banner of Petty Enterprises.

Beyond NASCAR driving, Kyle Petty is involved in a number of community and charity programs. To honor his charitable contributions he was given the title True Value “Man of the Year” in 1998 as well as the NASCAR Winston Cup Illustrated’s “Person of the Year” award in 1999. Petty established the Kyle Petty’s Charity Ride Across America in 1995. This ride is held in aid of a number of children’s charities. Other charities with which Petty is associated are the NEXTEL Cup Racing Wives Auxiliary, Boy Scouts of America and Make-A-Wish Foundation. Why not join in making a contribution to one of Kyle Petty’s charitable projects.

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