To compete in a pumpkin race you need to get a pumpkin and then make it mobile. Pumpkins are raced down a ramp against other pumpkins. The pumpkins are only powered by gravity and ingenuity (mostly gravity). To participate you need to adhere to the rules below. If you can make a pumpkin mobile without breaking any rules then you have a good chance of wining.

 

Who can take part?
Anyone of any age. Depending on your age you can compete in 1 of 2 groups, a children’s group (age 14 and under) and an adult’s group (age 14 and older).

 

What is the cost?
Nothing, zip, zilch, nada. Just a pumpkin with the right specifications.

 

When and Where?
It can take place when and wherever you want it to.
Inspection: Pumpkins should be inspected before the races begin for compliance to the specifications set forth below. Disqualified pumpkins may use the ramp after regular racing is completed.

 

What are the Specifications?
• Body: The body of your pumpkin must be made from a real pumpkin. "Props" may be used, but you must maintain the weight and wheelbase limit set below.

• Width/Length: The width and length of the body should not exceed 1ft 6in
• Wheelbase: Should not exceed 1ft 6in
• Wheels: This makes you move so you might want to have them
• Weight: The weight of the pumpkin should not exceed 5 pounds.
(We strongly recommend starting with a 7lb pumpkin and removing enough pumpkin to make the weight limit. The heavier the pumpkin the more you will need to worry about supporting it on wheels.)
• Frame: The frame/chassis must be custom. You may not use skateboards, roller blades, remote control cars, etc for your frame.
• Other: Pumpkins must free-wheel with no stored energy, engines or movable weights.

Other Info:
Each racer should have a chance to qualify. Upon qualification, races should run single elimination until a winner is chosen for ease of record keeping and maximum fun.

First and second place winners of each age level can receive a price. A grand prize will be awarded to the winner of a "race off" between the first place finishers of each age level.

There can be judging for additional awards in the categories MOST UNIQUE and BEST LOOKING.

The ramp should not exceed 30 feet long and 4 feet wide. You begin 4 feet from the ground and progress downward. There is a "hump" in the middle of the ramp to make the race more interesting.

The Great Pumpkin award goes to a racer for good sportsmanship.

Pumpkins should be disqualified if owner displays un-sportsmanlike conduct on the race site.