Travis Gienger Wins World Pumpkin Weigh-Off

Travis Gienger of Minnesota has won the 51st Annual Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off in Half Moon Bay with his 2,471-pound pumpkin, narrowly beating the second-place entry by just six pounds. This victory marks Gienger's third consecutive win at the event, following his record-setting 2,749-pound pumpkin in 2023. His winning pumpkin, affectionately named 'Rudy,' will be featured at the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival. Gienger emphasized the importance of soil health in growing such large pumpkins and received over $22,000 in prize money for his efforts. The competition saw other impressive entries, including a 2,465-pound pumpkin from Brandon Dawson, who highlighted the challenges of transporting his giant gourd. The event attracts significant attention, showcasing the growing trend of massive pumpkin cultivation and community festivities.