NASCAR icon Richard Petty has revealed that the 30th installment of the Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America will begin this May, marking a significant milestone in one of motorsports’ most enduring charity events. The Richard Petty charity ride anniversary will include a new cross-country route and the auction of Petty’s legendary hat, with all proceeds to benefit children at Victory Junction.
Commemorating Three Decades of the Kyle Petty Charity Ride
The charity ride, which traces its roots to 1995, began when Kyle Petty, inspired by his passion for motorcycles, set out with friends on a ride from North Carolina to Phoenix, Arizona, coinciding with a major NASCAR event. This initial journey marked the start of what has become a celebrated annual tradition, growing each year as more participants joined the cause.
Unlike previous years, the 30th anniversary ride will cover fresh ground. The journey starts in Sonoma, California, and concludes at Charlotte Motor Speedway in North Carolina. Spanning over 3,400 miles through 11 states, participants will travel for nine days from May 1 through May 9. Organizers expect a group of approximately 150 motorcycles will take part in the ambitious trek across the country.
Throughout its 29-year history, the event has raised more than $23 million, with thousands of riders participating to support children attending Victory Junction, the camp co-founded by Kyle Petty in memory of his late son Adam.
Richard Petty’s Hat Set for Auction to Benefit Victory Junction
During an event at EchoPark Speedway, Richard Petty, alongside his son Kyle and NASCAR vice chairman Mike Helton, announced an additional highlight: the auction of his iconic hat following the completion of the ride. The proceeds from this special auction will go directly to benefit Victory Junction and fund life-changing experiences for campers.
Highlighting the 2024 Route and Notable Stops
This year’s ride features numerous memorable landmarks and scenic routes. Riders will visit sites like Elvis Presley’s famous Graceland in Memphis, tackle the 318 turns of the Tail of the Dragon along the Appalachian Mountains, and stop at the original Bass Pro Shops in Springfield, Missouri. The journey’s final destination will be Victory Junction in Charlotte, North Carolina—where the impact of the charity ride can be most directly felt, as the camp has welcomed children with serious illnesses since 2004.
The detailed itinerary is as follows:
- May 1: Sonoma, CA to Ely, NV
- May 2: Ely, NV to Moab, UT
- May 3: Moab, UT to Colorado Springs, CO
- May 4: Colorado Springs, CO to Wichita, KS
- May 5: Wichita, KS to Springfield, MO
- May 6: Springfield, MO to Memphis, TN
- May 7: Memphis, TN to Chattanooga, TN
- May 8: Chattanooga, TN to Asheville, NC
- May 9: Asheville, NC to Charlotte, NC
Special Participants and Riders for the Milestone Event
This year’s anniversary event will bring together a host of notable figures and past participants. Sports icons such as Herschel Walker, Bill Davidson of Harley-Davidson, and former IndyCar driver JR Hildebrand will join the ride. Former NASCAR drivers including Kenny Wallace, Ken Schrader, and Matt Kenseth, as well as Richard and Kyle Petty, will also take part, making the event a gathering of motorsport personalities and charity supporters united for a common cause.
The Importance of the 30th Anniversary and What Lies Ahead
The 30th anniversary of the Richard Petty charity ride is a significant milestone, reflecting three decades of commitment to improving the lives of children facing serious health challenges. With $23 million raised so far, the continued expansion and ongoing support showcase the event’s resilience and enduring appeal. With the addition of the auction of Richard Petty’s famous hat, anticipation is high that this year’s ride will set new fundraising records.
As the event moves forward, its impact is expected to grow, as more supporters and participants join the effort to help Victory Junction offer unique experiences for children who need them most.
.@kylepetty & @therichardpetty announce the 30th anniversary @KPCharityRide. This year’s ride runs from May 1-9, starting in Sonoma, California and ending in Charlotte. pic.twitter.com/Zgy1YQCREZ
— PRN (@PRNlive) February 22, 2026
Pretty awesome… @therichardpetty just announced he will auction off the hat he is wearing at the conclusion of this year’s @KPCharityRide! Marking 30 years on The Ride! pic.twitter.com/Djfcp2i81e
— Holly Cain (@_HollyCain) February 22, 2026
