Frequently asked mower racing questions
I have a ????, can I race it?
Any mower designed and used for cutting domestic lawns can be used.
However some are better than others, so before starting come and watch a race to get an
idea of what works.
What types of mower do you race?
group1 A petrol mower driven by its roller that you walk(run) behind.
group2 A roller driven mower with a towed seat.
group3 A wheel driven mower with no bonnet.
group4 A garden tractor particularly noticeable by the bonnet covering the engine
What is the best mower for racing?
group1 Any mower driven by the roller.
group2 Atco 24 is common
group3 Westwood lawnbug
group4 This is the development area and possibly the ideal mower is yet to be found but it
will be wide, light and with a low centre of gravity.
Can my son race?
As long as he is over 18
Mower racing looks a good attraction, can you come and race at my event?
We are always interested in new events.
Please contact our events co-ordinator : mailto:events@blmra.co.uk
How do I prepare a mower for racing?
Is your mower on our homologation list - if not, get in touch with scruitineers to
arrange a meeting.
Once you have the OK make sure you keep the measurements to hand.
There is a book to help you which will be back in print shortly.
Get help from an experienced racer.
Is it difficult to prepare a mower?
Be prepared for a lot of hard work, you are going to just use your mower as the basis of a
racing machine. Only the basics of the mower is used, for example a group 2 might only use
the original side plates and a group 4 chassis, bonnet and mud guards. What you have to
keep original for each type is defined in the rules and regs. You then need to add proper
steering, drive train, pedals and a comfortable seat.
How much does it cost to race?
Entry fee is generally £10 per day, you will use about a gallon of petrol, camping in the
paddock is included.
Where and when can I see mower racing?
The season runs from May to October and events are in the south from Wales to Kent.
How do I tune my engine?
Tuning is forbidden apart from removal of the governor.
The only exception is in group 2 where certain 2 stroke mowers may be tuned but it is
unlikely you will find one of those.
Can I buy a ready prepared mower?
There is a steady supply of prepared mowers, see adverts in Cuttings or ask at events.
Where can I get the parts for mower?
Adverts in Cuttings will supply most of your needs. There are second hand bits and a
number of members offer services at very good prices. Do not forget that your engines are
available at huge discounts through the club(mailto:engines@blmra.co.uk)
Is there a social side to mower racing?
Many people stay overnight at mower racing events and believe that the evenings are as
important as the racing! We also meet for a noggin and natter on the first Monday of each
month at the Cricketers, Wisborough Green. The Grasscutters Ball is the main event of the
winter.
How do I get started?
The best way to get started is to come to a race meeting, head for race control and
introduce yourself. We will then find you someone who can explain what is going on. Bring
a camera and notebook!
How do I join?
Get a membership form, which you can find on the contacts page, enclose a cheque for
the right amount and send to the address on the contacts page.
What happens at a race meeting
Check Cuttings for special requirements,
some shows require passes.
You need to be at the event no later than 10.00
am on race day (often you can arrive Friday night)
Get set up and listen for announcements.
Help set the track up.
Your machine will be checked at scrutineering.
If this your first event everything will be checked but particularly we will be looking at
safety.
Once you have passed scruitineering, pay your
entry fees and sign on.
There will now be a practice session. This
allows you to set your mower up.
You must attend Drivers Briefing.
The first race is usually a championship race
followed by heats for the weekend trophies. If you are not racing please help by
marshaling.
There will be a much needed tea break during
the afternoon.
At the end of meeting help to clear the track
and pack up.
Even if you think you have not won any trophies
go to prize giving to thank the organisers and you might be surprised with a trophy one
day.
