Kyle Petty 2010 Charity Ride Kicks-Off May 1

NASCAR driver and racing analyst Kyle Petty will be joined by nearly 200 participants when the 2010 Charity Ride Across America will kick-off in Indian Wells, California, on May 1. The group will finish the 3,800 mile journey at Victory Junction Camp in Randleman, N.C., which provides a medically-sound camping experience to children with chronic and terminal illnesses.

Celebrities scheduled to join Petty for all or part of the Ride include NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Matt Kenseth, legendary NASCAR driver Harry Gant, former NFL great and Heisman Trophy winner Herschel Walker and supermodel Niki Taylor.

"With the economy continuing to struggle, these children and their families need our support now more than ever," said Petty. "Victory Junction provides life-changing opportunities for deserving children and their families and it's our hope that we are able to raise funds to impact many lives, despite the current economic challenges."

“Pattie and I are excited to hit the road with our fellow riders, sponsors and fans again this year. Riding across America provides unforgettable memories and lasting friendships for everyone involved," he continued.

The Petty's opened Victory Junction in 2004 in honor of their son Adam, whose life dream was to help children with terminal illnesses. The camp operates solely on the donations of corporations, organizations and individuals. As a result of the Charity Ride, more than 7,000 children have attended Victory Junction free of charge.

Since the Charity Ride's inception in 1995, there have been more than $13 million donated to Victory Junction and other charities that support chronically ill children.