Knoxville, Tenn./Charlotte, N.C. (WVLT) -- Jeff Gordon's fan base grew by at least four people today.

That's because four members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley spent some time with the 4-time Sprint Cup champion.

Harley Andrews and Caitlyn Walton, members of the Halls/Powell Club, Meghan Handergard, member of the North Anderson County Club, and Courtney Hitler, member of the Haslam Family Club University, were the ones that flew, via private plane, from Knoxville to Charlotte on Monday. They were selected as the winners from among 20 club members who entered an essay contest that centered on Jeff Gordon and his accomplishments.

Once in the Charlotte area, they had lunch with the NASCAR legend, toured the Hendrick Motorsports Complex, and even took part in a commercial.

The experience was made possible by Dean Winegardner of American Book Company who purchases the opportunity each year at an auction.

“For these children to be able to go to Charlotte on a private plane and have lunch with Jeff Gordon is a very special experience. We are very appreciative of Dean Winegardner for making this experience possible,” said John D. Lee, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley serves 6,741 members, ages 5 to 17 years, throughout the Tennessee Valley area, including Knox, Blount, Loudon, and North Anderson Counties.