Wow! A Record-Breaking 2,749-Pound Pumpkin Wins the Annual Contest

Breaking a world record, a pumpkin weighing more than 1.3 tons emerged as the champion at the 50th annual World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off in Half Moon Bay, California. Travis Gienger, the defending champion from Anoka, Minnesota, claimed the title once again with his 2,749-pound pumpkin named “Michael Jordan,” surpassing the previous world record of 2,702 pounds set in 2021. Gienger received a prize of $30,000 for his massive pumpkin.

Despite his previous accomplishments in growing record-breaking pumpkins, Gienger expressed surprise at breaking the world record as well. He has now won three out of the last four championships, winning in his first year of participating in 2020.

When asked about his approach to growing pumpkins, Gienger stated that he does not weigh his entries before the contest. He believes in letting the pumpkin be what it will be and values genuine reactions from people. Although the prize money was substantial, Gienger invested $15,000 in growing “Michael Jordan” from the time it was planted on April 10.

The prize money for the contest is underwritten by sponsor Safeway. Following the weigh-off, “Michael Jordan” and Mr. Gienger will be the centerpiece of a parade during the Half Moon Bay Art and Pumpkin Festival. The top pumpkins from the competition will also be displayed in the town on both Saturday and Sunday.