President Bush spends day at Victory Junction

President Bush spends day at Victory Junction

Press Release
October 19, 2006
02:00 PM EDT (18:00 GMT)

RANDLEMAN, NC -- President Bush paid a special visit to the Victory Junction Gang Camp on Wednesday, prompted by his interest in the humanitarian work that takes place camp for children with chronic medical conditions.

Upon the President's arrival he was greeted by Victory Junction co-founders, Kyle Petty and his wife Pattie, as well as Richard Petty.

"This visit enabled the President to see how the camp provides a life-changing experience to the children and their families free of charge," said Pattie Petty, CEO of the camp. "I can't thank the President enough for taking the time to come visit Victory Junction. I hope this makes every child and parent that has visited the camp very proud."

The Presidential visit consisted of a tour of Victory Junction and participation in some of the camps program areas. Fishing took place at the Bass Pro Shop Catch, Kiss and Release Marina, where the President was met by Victory Junction campers Maddie Lee and Hank Grissom.

"Pattie and I are honored to have President Bush come visit the camp," Kyle Petty said. "This is exciting for all of us and we are truly humbled.

"So many NASCAR drivers, officials and fans have poured their hearts and souls into helping the camp grow. President Bush visiting the camp is a great reward for everyone's dedication and an incredible opportunity for him to bring awareness to the plight of a chronically ill child."

The second stop was Adam's Race Shop, a 9,000-square-foot building that looks like a racecar. Inside Adam's Race Shop, President Bush was greeted by Victory Junction campers Paul Rader, Will "Cheese" Kwapil and Morgan Sagerman as well as NASCAR drivers Michael Waltrip and Jimmie Johnson.

The campers challenged the President to test his skills on one of the NASCAR simulators. The final stop was at the Fuel Stop (dining hall) where the President greeted and took a photo with the entire staff.