Pattie Petty is a name that many people might not recognize, but she has been an important figure in the world of racing for decades. As the wife of former NASCAR driver Kyle Petty and the mother of current driver Adam Petty, Pattie has been involved in the sport for most of her life. However, her own accomplishments and contributions to racing should not be overlooked. In this article, we will explore the life of Pattie Petty, including her early years, career, and personal life.
Early Years
Pattie Louise Dean was born on March 29, 1952, in Greensboro, North Carolina. Her father, Robert Dean, was a prominent businessman in the city, and her mother, Sara, was a homemaker. Pattie grew up with two sisters, and the family was close-knit. She attended Grimsley High School, where she was a cheerleader and a member of the student government.
After graduating from high school in 1970, Pattie attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where she earned a degree in home economics. She also met her future husband, Kyle Petty, at the university. They began dating in 1973 and were married in 1979.
Career
Pattie’s career in racing began in the 1980s, when Kyle started driving for the Wood Brothers Racing team. Pattie worked as Kyle’s publicist, handling his media appearances and managing his fan club. She quickly became known for her organizational skills and her ability to handle the demands of the racing world.
In the 1990s, Pattie and Kyle started their own racing team, called Petty Enterprises. Pattie served as the team’s vice president and general manager, overseeing all aspects of the team’s operations. She was responsible for hiring and training the team’s staff, managing the team’s finances, and developing sponsorship deals.
Under Pattie’s leadership, Petty Enterprises achieved great success on the track. The team won a total of eight races in the Cup Series, including the Daytona 500 in 1996 with driver Dale Jarrett. Pattie’s contributions to the team were recognized by her peers, and she was named the WISE (Women in Sports and Events) Woman of the Year in 2000.
Personal Life
Pattie’s personal life has been marked by both triumph and tragedy. She and Kyle have two children, Adam and Montgomery Lee, both of whom have followed in their father’s footsteps and become NASCAR drivers.
In 2000, tragedy struck when Adam was killed in a crash during a practice session at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. The loss of their son was devastating for Pattie and Kyle, and they founded the Victory Junction Gang Camp in his honor. The camp provides a summer camp experience for children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses.
Despite the tragedy, Pattie has continued to be involved in the racing world. She has served as a consultant for NASCAR, helping to develop new safety protocols for drivers and crews. She has also continued to support the Victory Junction Gang Camp, which has grown to become one of the most important charitable organizations in the racing community.
Conclusion
Pattie Petty’s life has been defined by her contributions to the world of racing, as well as her personal triumphs and tragedies. As a publicist, team manager, and safety consultant, she has left her mark on the sport in many ways. As a mother and a philanthropist, she has shown remarkable strength and resilience in the face of tragedy. Pattie’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of giving back to others.
FAQs
- What is Pattie Petty known for?
Pattie Petty is known for her contributions to the world of racing as a publicist, team manager, and safety consultant.
- What is the Victory Junction Gang Camp?
The Victory Junction Gang Camp is a summer camp experience for children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses. It was founded by Pattie and Kyle Petty in honor of their son, Adam, who was killed in a racing accident.
- How has Pattie Petty supported the Victory Junction Gang Camp?
Pattie Petty has continued to support the Victory Junction Gang Camp by serving on its board of directors and helping to organize fundraising events.
- What is WISE?
WISE is an organization that promotes women’s leadership and career advancement in the sports industry. Pattie Petty was named the WISE Woman of the Year in 2000.
- What is Pattie Petty’s relationship to Kyle Petty and Adam Petty?
Pattie Petty is the wife of former NASCAR driver Kyle Petty and the mother of current driver Adam Petty.
