Mow-town merriment

SPIRIT LAKE — Downtown Spirit Lake was anything but a drag as the Big Back-In lawnmower races blazed down Maine Street on a sunny and clear Father's Day afternoon.

Families, couples, friends, canine companions, babies in sunglasses, little ones with painted faces and racing enthusiasts gathered in the park, shops and taverns and spilled onto the sidewalks to catch the action.

"I'm real happy," part-time Priest River resident Gene Murphy said before the races began. "I've followed the circuit the last few years. I couldn't wait to come down here."

As someone who spent 20 years working around racing at the Daytona International Speedway in Florida, Murphy was tickled to return to this exciting environment, especially in North Idaho.

"I think it's almost ridiculous to see what they've done with lawnmowers," he said with a grin. "I've always been involved with racing, so I really enjoy this."

Following a year of COVID cancellations, participants and spectators alike were pleased to once again celebrate Father's Day weekend with a day of celebrating community with their neighbors and drag racing souped-up sporty lawnmowers.

"It's fun, it's a rush," 20-year-old Kristen Thomson of Post Falls said, adding that she's excited the races are back this year.

"I'm very, thankful," she said.

Jeanne Ewing of Athol has participated in the Big Back-In for five years. She wore a hot orange top as she raced her Seattle Seahawks-adorned super modified five-speed Craftsman in memory of her husband, who passed away in February.

"This is all for Tom," she said.

Another super modified lawnmower racer, Donna Davis of Athol, said it felt great to return.

"I've been so excited," she said. "Last night, I was excited. I felt like a horse waiting for the gate to open."