A Sunshine Coast man is taking his love of lawn-mowing to the next level, with a record-breaking attempt at Sunshine Coast Stadium.
Local media identity Steve Hirst will attempt to beat the 24-hour mower record (92.8km) on October 7-8.
It was while flicking through the Guinness Book of Records with his son Kobe last Christmas when he came across the record for pushing a lawnmower by an individual, which was set by Andy Maxfield in the United Kingdom in 2019.
Steve’s not sure whether it was post-Christmas bravado or an inspired attempt to win over his 10-year-old son, but he immediately said he could beat that record and become the new world record holder.
“I did the numbers in my head and I thought breaking the record was very doable so set about creating a training regime focused on breaking that time,” he said.
“It is going to be one of the most difficult things I have undertaken, as I will essentially be pushing a lawnmower from the same distance from the Sunshine Coast to Mt Gravatt in Brisbane’s south-side, but I am really motivated and I have a great team to support me.
“I also want to use it as an opportunity to raise $70,000 for local charity IFYS so they can purchase a new VW Transporter for the Old Church Youth Accommodation to use as a shuttle bus.
Steve has rallied the support of the community.
“I’ve lent on my contact from my time here on the Coast working in radio, print and TV,” he said.
“I have some great sponsors on board including Cricks Sunshine Coast, Queensland Easy Building Solutions, Sunshine Coast Hotels, Big Kart Track, Sajen legal, Go Transit Media Group, Performance Physiotherapy, Sea FM and my current employer Southern Cross Austereo. Sea FM will also be broadcasting live from 3pm to 6pm on the day.”
“I really think Andy Maxfield’s world record is in trouble.
“I am combining a few things I love, physical and mental challenges, helping good people and I really do love mowing the lawn.
“I’m feeling fit and strong and I have downloaded a stack of podcasts so I’m ready to roll … or push.”
For more information or to make a donation, visit 24 Hour Mower Challenge.
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