Friday 30th July 2004

Lawn Mower Racing

50mph grass cutters in head to head competition

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If certain high profile motor racing events seem to be getting just that little bit tedious, then why not come down to something a little more cutting edge and with twice the excitement – the annual 12-Hour Lawn Mower Race.

The British Lawn Mower Racing Association started back in 1972 after a bar-stool discussion about racing at the Cricketers Arms pub in Wisborough Green. Those present - including the ingenious Jim Gavin - decided to start racing lawnmowers, and the seed was sown for a new form of motorsport. 40 teams will be racing throughout the night in a test of endurance for both man and machine.

You might assume the racing's not entirely serious, and to a degree you'd be right, but put any group of petrolheads together with motorised devices and you'll end up with close-fought racing. The difference with the BLMRA is that it's always done with a smile and with entertainment value in mind.

The 12-Hour race is particularly special, and if you think it's going to be a low-key event with a few old mowers trickling round a muddy field, think again! The 40 or so teams set up pit garages equipped with generators and lighting, spare parts, welding kit, pit crew, catering and even gravity refuellers - everything they need for the long night of racing ahead.

There's all-night catering for spectators and plenty of action as the various classes of mower compete on a 0.8 mile circuit marked out by hay bales. The racing is anything but pedestrian – 50mph has been recorded! – and with continuous passing - and hilarious sideways antics if there's a hint of rain - this is motorsport with a good attitude. Properly marshalled and with accurate time-keeping, this is one of motorsport's best-kept secrets, and certainly one of the most fun events of the season.

The race starts at 8pm on the 31st July and finishes at 8am on the 1st of August. All profits go to local charities. For more information use the links below.

The Official British Lawn Mower Racing site: www.blmra.co.uk

[mechsympathy]

I helped pit crew for a team at this last year, if you are in the area and fancy a laugh it's a very entertaining way to pass an evening. The Le Mans start is a highlight

[Stella star]

We used to do this at home on two big ride on mowers! Cut the grass at the same time. Once had a big championship!

[john75]

This sounds like serious fun