Lawn Tractor Races to Aid Drug Program

A Ride Against Drugs, in which Ventura County children can race modified lawn tractors, will be held this weekend.

Camarillo Kmart employees and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department DARE team will transform the store’s parking lot at 940 Arneill Road into a mini-speedway, where children ages 7 through 12 can test their racing abilities.

Children in age groups of 7-8, 9-10 and 11-12 will race modified lawn tractors through a specially designed course complete with orange cones, barriers, speed bumps and hairpin turns.

Participants will race the clock to the checkered flag. Racers with the best time in their age group will advance to the regional race-off and a chance to compete at the national championship in Orlando, Fla., in January. Winners of the national competition will receive a $10,000 college scholarship annuity.

For each child who participates in the race, the Camarillo Kmart will donate $5 to the Sheriff’s Department’s DARE program.

Each racer will receive a free T-shirt, hat and certificate.

About 600 Kmart stores nationwide are participating in the Ride Against Drugs.

“This helps raise money for our DARE program in Ventura County to help buy the supplies we need so we can instruct the kids in DARE,” Senior Deputy Jim Aguirre said. “It also gives the kids something fun to do this weekend. Kids need extra activities just to keep them busy--it helps them stay out of trouble and drug-free.”

Admission is free. Saturday’s events run from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday’s from noon to 6 p.m.