Legendary 12-hour Lawn Mower Race returns to West Sussex
The legendary 12-hour Lawn Mower Race returns to the fields of West Sussex this summer.
The world’s toughest grassroots endurance race is back at Five Oaks near Billingshurst on Saturday August 16 – and this year’s event holds special significance as it will be held in memory of Les Pantry, long-time racer, committee chairman, and passionate ambassador for lawn mower racing, who sadly passed away from pancreatic cancer in May 2024.
Organised by the British Lawn Mower Racing Association, the race – an exhilarating overnight spectacle of speed and stamina – draws crowds from across the UK and beyond.
Fans can expect thrilling qualifying rounds starting at 3:30pm, a pit lane walk at 5pm, and the main 12-hour endurance race kicking off at 7pm, roaring through the night under floodlights.
This year, the event is supporting Pancreatic Cancer Action, the chosen charity of the 12-Hour Race Committee in honour of Les Pantry. A spokesperson said: “Les was not only the driving force behind the 12-hour event, but also a true character of the sport – known for his persistence, humour, and unrelenting dedication.
"His yellow mowers were a staple on the track, and his tireless work behind the scenes helped to bring international teams and fans to the UK racing scene.
"In 2024, a tribute team from the USA even flew in to race Les’s own Group 4 Wheel Horse mower under the team name ‘In Memory of Les’.”
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest of the common cancers, yet awareness remains low. Les’s family and the British Lawn Mower Racing Association are determined to change that by raising awareness and vital funds.
In a poignant moment last year, Les’s ashes were scattered at the start/finish line of the 12 hour circuit – a fitting tribute to a man who gave his all to the sport he loved.
Club president Pete Hammerton said: “Les was a real star, had a heart of gold and certainly left his mark. It’s only right that we honour him at the event he helped shape.”
Gates open at the event – being held off the A29 at Five Oaks – at 3pm on August 16 with the race itself starting at 7pm.
Entry: £10 per adult on the gate, or £8 in advance online at 12hour.co.uk. Children under 16 go free.
There will be live music, bar, food stalls, and family attractions throughout the evening.
All profits will go toward Pancreatic Cancer Action, helping to save lives through early diagnosis and research.