Christian Peterson
Reporter@riverbendnews.org
On Saturday, March 19, The Arc North Florida held their 24th Annual Lawn Mower Race. This annual race helps raise awareness and support for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The Arc also chose to partner with fan favorite, Ag-Pro, for the event. There were many racers from different companies, including Farm Credit, Suwannee Valley Electric Cooperative, Howland’s, McCrimmons Office Supply, Jeff Tippens Insurance and First Federal Bank, not to mention the many track sponsors. The teams were required to ride a lawnmower to different stations, where they had to complete a challenge before moving on.
“Racers had to take apart paper clips, roll quarters, trim grass, hammer a nail, thread a nut onto a bolt wearing heavy gloves, identify safe driving habits and find a needle in a haystack,” The Arc said in a Facebook post.
The entire time, the racers were required to hop on and off their lawn mowers. The event also had refreshments, games and a 50-50 raffle, which was announced after the race. Eventually, a winner emerged, as Howland’s took first place.
However, The Arc reported, “it was the closest match in years between second place team.” Coming in second place was Farm Credit who partnered with RIVEROAK Technical College for the race. “Thanks to all our sponsors, racers, spectators and volunteers for making it a memorable day,” The Arc said.