Through charities such as the Petty Family Foundation, Victory Junction, Paralyzed Veterans and Safe Driving initiatives, “The King” – Richard Petty – gives back to a world that put him on top of stock car racing. At the end of May, Petty hosted the inaugural Spring Fling car show at Petty’s Garage in Level Cross, NC.

It was there that he was given a little back in appreciation for all his work. Sponsored by the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) and its member companies, a highly customized Dodge Challenger was presented to Petty. As the cover came off the car, cheers erupted when the trademark Petty Blue paint was revealed.

Finally, all could see the masterful air brush work by Mickey Harris on both flanks of the car that depicts Petty’s career.

“In my 35 years as an artist, I’ve worked on art restoration for some of America’s greatest pieces at the Pentagon and some amazing vehicles, such as GM’s America’s Pride Camaro,” Harris said. “But today I confess that perhaps one of the greatest experiences of my entire career has been to be selected by ALI in telling Mr. Petty’s story here on the Legacy tribute Challenger.”

The car’s custom interior, by Katskin, matches Petty’s signature crocodile skin boots. Petty also received a special license plate, from the state motor vehicle commissioner, which reads 200 WINS. The custom plate will be used on the hauler which will transport the car around the country this year to promote vehicle lift safety. When the tour is complete, the car will be put on display in the Richard Petty Museum in Randleman, NC.

Wrapping up the program, ALI chairman Doug Grunnet presented the Petty Family Foundation with a check and announced that ALI and its member companies have committed to sponsoring the Spring Fling Car Show at Petty’s Garage annually through 2014.