Despite cool temperatures and intermittent rain, a few thousand converged on Settawig Road to watch pumpkins fly Saturday. Even more came Sunday when warmer weather and dry skies prevailed. Pam Roman, director of the Clay County Chamber of Commerce which sponsors the event, said she thinks around 16,000 people were there during the two days. This includes volunteers, vendors and attendees of all ages, both paying and non-paying.
Local favorites Hayesville Hurlers and their air cannon had the longest shot of the weekend at 2,643 feet and took home a trophy. Trophies were also given to returning former world champions, Team Carbo, who launched a pumpkin 2,381 feet and First in Fright's whose longest throw was 1,935 feet. OFC Knightmare's longest pumpkin chunk was 1,248 feet.
Some teams traveled many miles to compete for the coveted title of Clay County's Punkin Chunkin Champion. Team Carbo drove from Clayton, N.C., while First in Fright made the drive from Chapel Hill and OFC Knightmare traveled all the way from Midland, Mich. Unfortunately, the other two local teams, Argos and Resident Aliens, both had technical difficulties which took them out of chunking pumpkins.
In addition to the pumpkin launching, many people seemed to come to Punkin Chunkin for the variety of food, which included everything from pickled eggs and fresh fried pork skins, to fried Oreos, bratwurst and burgers. The fried spiral potatoes made by the Clay County American Legion Ladies Auxiliary always has a long line, just like the award-winning barbecue. Funnel cakes, kettle corn and an assortment of beverages offered the festival feel and the Kona Ice truck had lines even on the cool day.
Since Saturday's pie-eating competition was cancelled due to rain, three pie-eating contests were held Sunday.
These contests are always enjoyed by the contestants, as well as the spectators who cheer them on. "As always, the pie-eating was hilarious," Roman said.
Better start planning now, the 2020 Punkin Chunkin will be the 12th year for the popular event, which draws visitors from all over the southeast. Visit: www.claychambernc.com for details.