Grassroots racing

Have you considered the number of secondhand obsessions that have found their way into your life? Those topics or hobbies you find yourself immersed in the knowledge of, because they come from the interests of someone you care about? That’s what I call a secondhand obsession. It doesn’t really belong to you, it’s not something you’ve sought out. Yet your friend, your child or your favourite coworker has an interest in it, so you find yourself engaged. Sometimes in a benign sort of way, like picking up turtle figurines for that person and in other cases, it’s a bit more engrossing. 

For me the newest is Grassroots Lawn Tractor Racing. You may not be aware such an activity exists as lawn mower racing here on PEI, but on the other hand, are you really that surprised to learn of it?

A few years back my husband’s landscaping company was asked by his cousin—also very Islander—to sponsor their team, this is when it came into the periphery of my life. At the end of last season, my youngest decided that sounded like fun. Then a few weeks back a racing mower landed in my yard and now I find myself parked on turn three, trackside, watching my husband wipe out. 

Honestly it’s not the sort of activity I thought I’d enjoy, but it is surprisingly engaging. To begin there is an adorable race of tiny humans on electric cars and then it just gets faster and louder right through to the adult division. It’s crazy how fast these things get going, the dirt is flying and they’re tearing up the track on decked out mowers. It’s somehow both nail biting and wholesome. 

Classic rock and country play over the speakers in between the action, there is a 50/50 draw and a canteen that sells BBQ eats, earplugs and treats. All for under $5. People of all ages settle on stands, tailgates or propped under umbrellas in lawn chairs for a few hours to cheer on those willing to really get some dirt in their faces. Whether it’s fun or glory that gets them out there I don’t know, but it really is quite something to watch. I don’t think I’d have the guts. The driving really becomes quite defensive as the races progress. Though I do possess the “wooo!”, to make for an excellent spectator. Plus the drive out that way is vibrantly beautiful. 

The PEI Lawn Tractor Racing Club began amongst some friends back in 2014 and by 2016 they became a registered non-profit. Each year they choose a charity to donate to and for 2025 it’s the PEI Make A Wish Foundation. Admission is free for kids under 6, $10 a person or $30 for a carload and let me tell you, they come by the carload! The track is at 2144 Cardigan Road and the place gets packed on racing Sundays. You can find their season schedule in the usual sort of places you’d look.