The TurfMutt Great Lawn at Louisville's Waterfront Park officially was the site of a historical achievement on May 16, 2026, as power technology company Rehlko set a new Guinness world record for fastest mowing of an area the size of an American football field.
Rehlko accomplished the feat using a mower powered by the Command PRO 999 cc (41 hp) gasoline engine and driven by Hali Rieman, better known as the "Lawn Queen."
To set the record, the grass had to be maintained at a minimum height of 6 in. to mirror unpredictable, high-load environments. This requirement transformed the TurfMutt Great Lawn into a testing ground, proving that managed turf can handle extreme conditions while maintaining its environmental integrity. The attempt is part of Rehlko's global "Cutting History" initiative.
The record-breaking event served as live demonstration of the power of parks.
"More than a world record, this feat is a tribute to the health, wellness and environmental benefits that managed landscapes bring to our communities every day," said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, Outdoor Power Equipment Institute and Equip Exposition.
The event also highlighted the ongoing transformation of Louisville's urban landscape.
"The TurfMutt Great Lawn at Waterfront Park is a centerpiece of our community, and we're so proud to see it recognized on this scale," said Deborah Bilitski, president and executive director of Waterfront Park. "Through our partnership with the TurfMutt Foundation, we continue to demonstrate that these managed landscapes are more than just grass — they are essential infrastructure for health and wellness, community connection and pride."
Turfgrass is one of nature's most impressive environmental superheroes. Living turf produces oxygen, sequesters carbon, filters the air, cools communities, helps control erosion and reduces runoff. For more information about the many benefits of the green space, visit TurfMutt.com and check out the International Backyarding Fact Book.
Homeowners who want to treat their own lawns with the same world-class care must always keep safety in mind, said Kiser.
"When using a mower or other outdoor power equipment, always keep kids and pets away from working machines and follow the manufacturer's safety precautions," he said.
