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Giant Pumpkin Grower Wins $30K Prize
14 Oct
Summary
- A horticulture teacher won his fifth championship with a 2,389-pound pumpkin.
- The Half Moon Bay competition awards $9 per pound, totaling over $21,000.
- Growing giant pumpkins involves significant costs for seeds, water, and transport.
Travis Gienger, a horticulture teacher from Anoka, Minnesota, has achieved his fifth championship win at the Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off. His latest entry, a colossal pumpkin weighing 2,389 pounds, secured him a prize of over $21,000 based on the competition's rate of $9 per pound. This win adds to his impressive record, building upon previous victories and a North American record set in 2022.
The financial rewards for growing giant pumpkins can be substantial, with prize money reaching tens of thousands of dollars, especially if world records are broken. However, this lucrative hobby comes with considerable expenses. Growers must invest in quality seeds, extensive watering—sometimes up to 12 times daily—fertilizers, soil amendments, and specialized equipment.
Transportation also presents a significant cost, with journeys potentially spanning 30 hours. Despite these outlays, Gienger's dedication, inspired by his father, has yielded considerable success, with his total winnings surpassing $117,000 over six years. His achievements underscore the passion and meticulous effort required to compete at the highest level of giant pumpkin cultivation.
