History
History of Pukwana Lawn Mower Races
Photo of drivers and mowers competing in the first lawnmower race.
The first lawn mower race in Pukwana was held in the spring of 2003 with just over a half dozen mowers competing. Races have continued to be held, nearly every weekend, during the summer months since then. From this humble beginning the races have grown to what they are today, with upwards of thirty mowers in attendance and over five hundred spectators cheering on their favorite drivers.
In 2005 the “Crazy Racers” lawn mower association was formed to oversee track maintenance and govern the rules of the track. This club, since its inception, has installed lighting, a speaker system, fencing around the track, improved the racing surface, and created an accepted set of rules. These improvements improve the safety of the drivers and the crowd, and enhance the overall experience of the event.
Over the years, mowers competing have received different classifications, for the first several races all of the mowers present were in the same class, this due to the number of mowers competing. As the number of mowers increased they were then divided into two classes depending on the horsepower rating of the motor used. The motor classification was later dissolved and mowers were then put into classes depending on the competitiveness of the mower.
In 2005 mowers were divided into the classes that are used today, originally called “A”, “B”, and “C” classes. At this time the points system used today was also implemented.
Lawn Mower Classes Described The stock class is our entry-level racing class. Modifications made are mainly for improvements in safety and reliability. Some modifications are allowed to increase the speed and handling of the mowers. However, motor size is limited to a maximum of 8 horsepower. This class will reach speeds of over 20 miles per hour on our track.
Stock Class
Modified Class We threw the rulebook out for this class, and as long as the mowers have lawn mower engines, body parts, and meet our safety requirements pretty much anything goes. If you take a close look at these mowers you will find tube chasses, adjustable axles, and high performance engine parts. These mowers will reach speeds of over 30 miles per hour.
The modified class is a step up from the Stock class, several modifications can be made, but an original lawn mower chassis must be used and motor modifications are held to a minimum, maximum motor size is limited to 18 horsepower single cylinder models. The axles may be replaced and the strength of the frame can be increased. In this class you can expect speeds of at least 25 miles per hour.
Outlaw Class
