B.C. Pumpkin Grower Aims to Defend Title at U.S. Weigh-Off

Richard Chan, a dedicated pumpkin grower from Richmond, British Columbia, is preparing to defend his title at an annual pumpkin weigh-off in the United States. This competition, held in Bellevue, Washington, draws growers from across North America, all vying for recognition in the world of giant pumpkins.

Chan’s journey into the realm of giant pumpkin cultivation began in 1982 when he reached out to a well-known grower in Eastern Canada. “I got a letter back from him in one week and a few seeds,” Chan recalled. His inaugural pumpkin weighed in at 278 pounds, a figure that was impressive for its time but pales in comparison to today’s standards. “Now, that wouldn’t even qualify for anything,” he added, highlighting the evolution of the competition.

Preparing for the Competition

As he gears up for this year’s event, Chan is focused on transporting his latest pumpkin, which he estimates weighs around 2,000 pounds. While this is slightly lighter than his record-setting pumpkin of last year, which tipped the scales at over 2,200 pounds, Chan remains optimistic about his chances of securing another victory.

In addition to his primary entry, Chan will also be bringing a second giant pumpkin weighing approximately 1,600 pounds. On Friday, workers employed a crane to carefully load both pumpkins onto a flat-bed truck in preparation for their journey south.

Chan’s accomplishments in the pumpkin-growing community have earned him a respected place among fellow growers. His dedication to the craft is evident in his meticulous preparation and the care he takes in nurturing his pumpkins. As the weigh-off approaches, he reflects on the camaraderie among competitors and the shared passion for growing these extraordinary gourds.

The annual competition not only showcases the impressive size of the pumpkins but also highlights the skill and dedication of the growers who cultivate them. As Chan embarks on this year’s challenge, he carries with him the hopes of not only defending his title but also inspiring others in the pumpkin-growing community.