British Lawn Mower Racing Association's 50th Anniversary was no ordinary celebration. They bid adieu to their renowned 12-hour race, unveiling the extraordinary BLMRA 500 - a one-of-a-kind event. Over 50 audacious trios, including international teams, converged on a West Sussex farm for a grueling 14-hour 500-lap race, mostly in darkness. This was motorsport on a monumental scale.
With a Le Mans-style start at 7 pm, the scene transformed into a symphony of roaring engines. The track, a 1212m circuit, witnessed mowers racing vigorously. Picture this distance: a jaw-dropping 400 miles after 500 laps. That's akin to a London to Manchester round trip - all on lawnmowers. It's a testament to machine and driver determination.
Various mower categories competed - Group 4 tractor-style mowers, Group 2 towed seat mowers, and Group 3 compact lawnbugs. The night race was punctuated by frenzied pit activity, where mechanics toiled tirelessly.
Each team had three drivers where comfort was absent. The race tested their mettle, devoid of suspension, offering just a padded seat against punishing bumps. Mechanical mishaps and fatigue were constants. As dawn broke, exhausted racers found fresh vigor. The finish line beckoned, promising respite.
Yet, the pace remained unrelenting. As the checkered flag waved, leaders were still pushing limits. This 50th-anniversary saga was one of sweat, tears, and unbreakable bonds between racers and crews. A story of humans and machines pushing boundaries, etching a memory into motorsport's fabric
Track length: 1212m
500 laps in excess of 400 miles!
Race duration: The race was completed in just over 14 hours (14:04:38)
Number of teams competing: 52
Results
The overall race winners were Number 43 - Bullseye Racing, who completed the full 500 laps in a Group 4 mower (Tractor Style) This team were class throughout and their drivers were Kenny Goodesmith the current Group 4 world champion plus his Brother Alfie Smith, and Nephew Jack Smith - a family affair!
The event was watched by over 3000 people and raised in excess of 13K for Charity.
13 авг 2023
