Whitetop: The Oldest Llama in Captivity and His Touching Story

Introduction to Whitetop

Whitetop, a 27-year-old llama, has recently been crowned the world’s oldest llama in captivity by Guinness World Records. Residing at Victory Junction, a year-round, free camp in North Carolina, Whitetop has spent his days comforting chronically ill and disabled children. His calm, sweet, and empathetic personality has made him a beloved figure at the camp, which was founded by NASCAR legend Richard Petty and his family in memory of their late son, Adam. Whitetop’s journey from a humble beginning to becoming a record holder is a heartwarming tale of love, purpose, and longevity.

The Story of Victory Junction Camp

Victory Junction is more than just a camp; it is a sanctuary for children dealing with chronic illnesses and disabilities. Nestled on 84 acres in Randleman, North Carolina, the camp was established in 2004 by Kyle Petty and his family after the tragic loss of Kyle’s son, Adam, who died in a racing accident in 2000. The camp offers a variety of activities and experiences tailored to children with conditions such as cancer, heart disease, cerebral palsy, and other physical and neurological disabilities. Since its inception, Victory Junction has provided a supportive and inclusive environment where children can escape the challenges of their daily lives and find joy and connection.

Whitetop, who was donated to the camp in 2006, has become an integral part of the Victory Junction family. His gentle nature and ability to comfort campers have made him a favorite among the children and staff alike. Billie Davis, the camp’s barn director, describes Whitetop as a calming presence who helps children come out of their shells. “He really gets to help campers come out of their shell when they interact with him,” she said. “He can be kind of intimidating at first, but once they come over to him and love on him and pet on him, they just realize how sweet he is.”

Whitetop’s Personality and Daily Life

Whitetop’s personality is as unique as his record-breaking age. Known for his relaxed and empathetic demeanor, Whitetop has a special gift for comforting campers. His favorite pastime is lying still while children pet him, providing them with a sense of calm and sensory input. This simple yet profound interaction has become a cornerstone of his role at the camp.

In addition to his comforting presence, Whitetop has a playful side. He loves to roll in fresh wood chippings, munch on soaked alfalfa, and even pose for selfies. According to Billie Davis, Whitetop is quite the photogenic llama. “If you try to take a picture of him from the side, he’s not into it,” she said. “He will, like scoot in there and try to get his face from a side profile so that it’s like he’s cheesing.”

Whitetop’s best friend at the camp is a miniature Highland cow named Gus-Gus, who has a peculiar habit of jumping on him, seemingly oblivious to the fact that Whitetop is a llama. Despite this playful dynamic, Whitetop remains patient and loving. His only moments of upset come when Gus-Gus and the camp’s two miniature donkeys, Jed and Jethro, leave him alone.

Whitetop’s longevity is a testament to the exceptional care he has received over the years. While the average lifespan of a llama is about 15 years, Whitetop has defied the odds, thanks to great veterinary care and a life filled with purpose. Although he has developed some arthritis in his twilight years, he remains remarkably healthy and content.

The Impact of Whitetop on Campers

Whitetop’s influence extends far beyond his record-breaking age. For many campers, interacting with him has been a life-changing experience. Take Stephanie Wilkerson, a 33-year-old from Thomasville, North Carolina, who first visited Victory Junction in 2006 after being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Initially nervous around Whitetop, she soon found solace in petting and hugging him. “When I started stroking him more and more and more, I got more relaxed,” she said. Her story is just one of many that highlight the profound impact Whitetop has had on the lives of campers.

For children dealing with chronic illnesses or disabilities, Whitetop offers a sense of comfort and normalcy. His ability to connect with campers on a deep level has made him an indispensable part of the Victory Junction experience. Whether it’s through his calm demeanor, his love for selfies, or his playful interactions with Gus-Gus, Whitetop has become a symbol of joy and resilience.

Whitetop’s Legacy and Newfound Fame

Whitetop’s recent recognition as the world’s oldest llama in captivity has brought him newfound fame. At 27 years and 250 days, he surpassed the previous record holder, Dalai Llama, who lived on a ranch in Albuquerque, New Mexico. With his record-breaking age, Whitetop has become an inspiration to many, proving that with love, care, and a sense of purpose, life can be lived to the fullest.

To celebrate Whitetop’s achievement, Victory Junction has started selling limited edition T-shirts featuring a fun design of the llama wearing sunglasses with the words “Still Spit’n.” Proceeds from the sales will go directly to supporting the camp’s mission of providing a free, life-changing experience for children with serious illnesses and disabilities.

Interestingly, Whitetop’s fame has also given him the opportunity to dispel a common misconception about llamas. According to Billie Davis, llamas are often stereotyped as spitters, but Whitetop is far from that. “Typically llamas only spit when they are scared, uncomfortable, or territorial over something,” she explained. “And he just loves his job so much that he doesn’t do it.” Whitetop’s gentle nature is a perfect example of how misunderstood llamas can be, and he is helping to change that narrative one interaction at a time.

Whitetop’s legacy is not just about his record-breaking age; it’s about the love, comfort, and joy he has brought to countless campers over the years. As he continues to live his best life at Victory Junction, Whitetop remains a testament to the power of compassion, friendship, and the enduring spirit of a very special llama.