Whitetop: The World’s Oldest Llama in Captivity and a Beloved Comforter of Children
In a heartwarming tale that has captured the hearts of many, a bucktoothed llama named Whitetop has been crowned the world’s oldest llama in captivity by Guinness World Records. At 27 years and over 250 days, Whitetop, who resides at Victory Junction, a camp for chronically ill children in North Carolina, has dethroned Dalai Llama, who previously held the title. Dalai, who lived on a ranch in Albuquerque, was recognized as the oldest llama in 2023 shortly after his 27th birthday. Whitetop’s remarkable longevity and his unique role as a comforter of sick children make his story truly special.
A Home at Victory Junction: A Camp Founded by NASCAR Royalty
Whitetop found his forever home at Victory Junction, a year-round, free camp located on 84 acres in Randleman, North Carolina. The camp was founded in 2004 by Kyle Petty, a former NASCAR driver, and his family, in honor of his late son, Adam Petty, who tragically died in a racing accident in 2000 at the age of 19. Victory Junction is designed to provide a welcoming and healing environment for children suffering from serious illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, cerebral palsy, Spina Bifida, and various neurological and physical disabilities. Since his arrival in 2006, Whitetop has become an integral part of the camp, offering comfort and joy to countless children and their families.
A Sweet and Empathetic Soul: Whitetop’s Role at the Camp
Whitetop, known for his relaxed and sweet personality, has become a beloved companion to the campers at Victory Junction. His calm demeanor and empathetic nature make him a perfect therapy animal. One of his signature moves is to lie still, allowing children to pet him, which not only provides comfort but also offers important sensory input for those who may benefit from it. Billie Davis, the camp’s barn director, describes Whitetop as a gentle soul who helps campers come out of their shells. “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,” she said.
Life at Victory Junction: Friends and Quirks
Life at Victory Junction is never dull for Whitetop, who has formed close bonds with other animals at the camp. One of his best friends is a miniature highland cow named Gus-Gus, who, despite their size difference, enjoys jumping on Whitetop. Whitetop also shares a special connection with two miniature donkeys named Jed and Jethro. Beyond his social life, Whitetop has a few quirks that make him all the more endearing. He loves to roll in fresh wood chippings, munch on soaked alfalfa, and, perhaps most memorably, pose for selfies. According to Davis, Whitetop has a knack for photobombs. “If you try to take a picture of him from the side, he’s not into it. He will scoot in there and try to get his face from a side profile so that it’s like he’s cheesing,” she said with a laugh.
A Long and Happy Life: Factors Behind Whitetop’s Longevity
Whitetop’s advanced age is a testament to the excellent care he receives at Victory Junction. While the average lifespan for a llama is about 15 years, Whitetop has defied the odds and continues to thrive. His longevity is attributed to great veterinary care, regular exercise, and, as Davis believes, his deep love for his job. Although Whitetop has developed arthritis in his later years, he remains in remarkably good health. His only moments of distress come when Gus-Gus, Jed, and Jethro leave him alone, highlighting the strong bonds he has formed with his fellow animals.
A Legacy of Comfort and Joy: Whitetop’s Impact and Fame
Whitetop’s newfound fame has brought even more attention to the important work being done at Victory Junction. Campers like Stephanie Wilkerson, who first visited the camp in 2006 after being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, credit Whitetop with helping them find comfort during difficult times. “When I started stroking him more and more and more, I got more relaxed,” Wilkerson recalled. To celebrate Whitetop’s record-breaking achievement, the camp has started selling limited-edition T-shirts featuring Whitetop wearing sunglasses and the phrase “Still Spit’n,” with proceeds going to support the camp. Despite his fame, Whitetop remains humble and continues to do what he does best—bringing joy and comfort to those who need it most. As Davis points out, Whitetop would like everyone to know that not all llamas spit; his love for his job and the people he meets ensures that he is always a gentle and loving companion.
