https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3KkXJgwUo8
Lawns and lawn mowing are a pretty big deal.
So much so, that tractor racing is an international sensation. In fact, folks have been getting together to test their lawnmower speed and agility skills against each other in the U.S. and England for decades.
You may even be surprised to know that there are different types of lawnmower and tractor racing, based on speed and engine size. Some races are much like drag races, with mowers hitting top speeds at a limited distance. Other races take place over the course of several laps on a dirt track. Others are Grand Prix format, with a twisting, turning course that must be completed within a certain time.
But, there's nothing quite like the fan-favorite lawnmower obstacle course.
Generally speaking, anyone with a few straw bales and some old, rusty things lying around can fashion a lawnmower obstacle course quicker than you can say "Hold my beer." In this classic example, you see some old appliances, hand-painted signs, and farm implements.
The courses challenge both speed and agility by requiring the lawnmower riders to maneuver tight shapes and corners, stop the lawnmower, dismount, hop back on, and complete certain steps in reverse. Basically, it's like mowing your lawn at home, if your lawn was covered in junk and you'd forgotten the easiest way to get that clean golf-course striping.
For those curious, competitive lawnmowers generally have the blades removed before being souped up for racing. That's why it's more amusing -- and not so terrifying -- when hijinx like this man's toppling reverse happen. Depending on the rules of your racing league (and there are a few), you'll probably be disqualified, but you'll also have a great story to share for years to come.
Then again, if you win, the bragging rights will be pretty much eternal.
This post was originally published on January 26, 2015.