50 Before 11.75: Set Up a Snail Race

#17 of the 50 things to do before you're 11 3/4 is set up a snail race. Our back yard was host to another success.

The first step was to find contestants. The weather had been wet so it was easy to find some snails on the leafy bushes in the back garden.

Two contestants

Next, the kids prepared the race track. Having watched Cars and Cars 2 several times, they knew how to add excitement and adventure to the race. Having read on line about snail racing, my wife knew to wet down the track so it would be easier for the snails.

Preparing the way

L happy in her work

Gentlemen, start your engines!

The race was pretty exciting in the beginning, with the racers going neck-and-neck literally!

A tight race

At one point there was a crash, though actually it was more of a run-over. One snail went right over the other guy! I guess that's a good way to take the lead.

Up...

...on...

...and over!

This did not have the desired effect since one of the racers seems to have chosen his own track.

You're going the wrong way!

Go over the bridge, not under!!

So only one of them made it across the bridge.

Heading for a lead!

Oh no, another crash!

Maybe I should go under the bridge too!

We gave them another start and things worked out better for everyone involved.

L gets ready to give them the bridge

Headed for glory

A fun time was had by all, even if victory was had by none.