The first annual lawn mower races held at the Stanislaus County Fair on Sunday attracted local drivers who were just getting into the sport, as well as dedicated racers from Ukiah and Sacramento.

Sunday’s race was only the second lawn mower competition Eric Borba of Denair had ever entered. His first was the week before at the California State Fair. Borba said he and his dad found the mower rusted out and decided to build it up.

Racing alongside Borba were veteran lawn mower drivers such as Tom Carkin and Wyatt Phillips, both of Ukiah.

“We do this all the time in my hometown,” said Carkin.

Phillips said he first got interested in lawn mower racing due to the relatively low expense of getting started, but the “speed and adrenaline” are what keep him competing.

Ukiah drivers won the day, as Chriece Washlourn took first place in the A Main division, followed by Gary Gallo. Bob Newman of Hughson earned third place and was the only local driver to place.