Club revving up for launch

Lawnmower racers across Franklin are gearing up for the launch of their racing season at the end of this month.

Lawnmowing racing began 10 years ago in the town of Eketahuna as a way for a husband to cheer up his cancer-stricken wife. It was not long before other people saw how much fun they were having, and now New Zealand has 10 lawn mowing clubs and is quickly becoming the country’s fastest-growing sport.

What separates this from car or motorbike racing is the expense involved. Lawnmower racing is relatively inexpensive and is accessible to more people, with many of them being able to convert their old mowers in their backyards or sheds.

The Counties Lawnmower Racing Club is about to enter its 2025 season.

Across the country, they have different classes and categories, including juniors, ladies and class one engine races. Mowers are split up into three different types depending on their power. One, two, and three; with one having the smallest engine, and three being the most powerful.

On King’s Birthday, the club hosted the first-ever Junior Class Three New Zealand North Island Championship race, which featured 45 racers from as far away as Wellington.

According to the New Zealand Lawn Mower Racing Association rules, all drivers must wear helmets, full-body clothing including long trousers, overalls, and long-sleeved shirts.
Gumboots are not allowed, and all drivers must ensure that their clothing cannot get caught up in the lawnmower while racing.

To be eligible to enter the new season, all new drivers must sign and submit a release of indemnity discharging the club from all liability. Drivers under the age of 16 must have permission slips signed by a parent or legal guardian.

The new season starts on September 28. Gates open at 9am, with racing from 10am.