For Calistoga artist and craftsman Michael Johnson, Memorial Day Weekend means heading north to the small town of Arcata to participate in the 32nd Annual Arcata to Ferndale Kinetic Sculpture Race.

The brainchild of sculptor Hobart Brown, this 'festival of art and madness' lasts three days and encompasses 38 miles of roadways, sand, mud and water. The event draws hundreds of madcap participants and spectators, as well as sponsors such as Mumm Napa Valley and Calistoga Mineral Water.

Man-powered sculptures, some weighing half a ton, are created from bits of recycled metal, plastic bottles and discarded rugs. Their zany appearance belies the feats of artistry and engineering required to produce such loveable monstrosities. The race itself is a volunteer effort with no money or prizes. Just wacky awards with names like 'Best Art', 'Best Engineering', 'Worst Honorable Mention' and 'Best Bribe'. "In the strictest sense, or in every sense, it's not a race," explains Michael. "The first one over the finish line is not necessarily the winner," he adds, with a wide grin.

Michael's introduction to this wacky, irreverent happening began seven years ago when his children and their classmates from Calistoga Elementary School needed someone to build them an entry for the race. The result was a 4-seater bicycle complete with umbrella stand, cup holders, pontoons and paddles. This fully self-contained amalgamation of spokes and derailleurs would eventually carry thirty laughing and tired fifth and sixth graders through mud holes and sand dunes and, ultimately, across the finish line.

That was seven years and four races ago. Since that time Michael and his adult crew, 'the bikin' fools', have taken over and continued on course. Asked what keeps them going back each Memorial Weekend? Michael answers, barely able to contain his mirth: "For the glory!"