2005


By Sharon Sherwood


Sunday's New England 300 at Loudon is now in the history books and we
are one race closer to locking in the contenders for the Chase for the
Championship.

As I watched Tony Stewart scale the grandstand fence to celebrate his
third win in four races, holding the checkered flag aloft in triumph,
I reflected on the resilience of the human spirit.

It's no secret that the drivers do not look forward to racing at New
Hampshire International Speedway -- a track with a somber history. A
track where -- within a period of just 8 weeks during the 2000 season
-- Adam Petty (May 12) and Kenny Irwin Jr. (July 7), were both killed
in similar collisions with the turn 3 wall during practice sessions.

I doubt that anyone ever returns to Loudon without thinking of the two
young rising stars.

Kenny Irwin Jr., a 30-year old USAC sprint car champion, was known for
his inordinate kindness and patience with fans and reporters alike.
Kenny worked his way up through the open wheel ranks and had dreams of
making his mark in Winston Cup, earning the 1997 Craftsman Truck
Rookie of the Year title and 1998 Winston Cup Rookie honors. Kenny
spent much time away from the track helping others, and was
particularly generous in his charitable work for the benefit of
underprivileged children.

Adam Petty was a vital and exuberant 19-year old and first
fourth-generation driver in Winston Cup history, involved in many of
the Petty family's charitable causes, including the Kyle Petty Charity
Ride Across America. Adam was a Busch Series regular who, just four
weeks prior to his fatal crash, had completed his Winston Cup debut at
Texas Motor Speedway in preparation for a full time cup ride in 2001.

Unthinkable despair. Yet out of the ashes, so much hope so much joy.

Irwin's parents, Kenny Sr. and Reva Irwin, founded the Kenny Irwin Jr.
Memorial Foundation in 2001. Three years later, the Dare to Dream Camp
opened its doors to carry on their son's legacy of compassion. The
camp, which is located in New Castle Indiana, provides opportunities
for at-risk, neglected and abused children to pursue their dreams in a
fun and supportive atmosphere, something they may have never before
experienced.

Kyle and Patty Petty founded the Victory Junction Gang Camp in June
2004, honoring son Adam's vision of a getaway for children with life
threatening or chronic illnesses. The race themed facility, situated
in Randleman, N.C., provides the wholesome activities of a traditional
summer camp along with medical assistance, and perhaps most
importantly, a chance for kids to meet and make memories with other
children like themselves.

From tragedy and loss -- to hope, healing, and second chances. I
believe that though their time on this earth was far too short, Adam
Petty and Kenny Irwin left priceless gifts of spirit which God has
used to touch many young lives. More lives than most of us can ever
hope to touch in a lifetime.

For more information on the Kenny Irwin Memorial Foundation and Dare
to Dream Camp, and the Victory Junction Gang Camp:

Kenny Irwin Jr. Foundation

Victory Junction Gang Camp