Dave and Carol Stelts, large pumpkin growers from Western Pennsylvania, have emerged victorious at the 29th annual Ohio Valley Giant Pumpkin Growers Weigh-off, claiming the coveted “Grower of the Year” title. The couple’s impressive pumpkins totaled a massive 7,729 pounds, with their largest pumpkin weighing in at 2,731.5 pounds, just shy of the current U.S. and world record.
Dubbed the “pumpkin king,” Dave Stelts expressed his pride and boastful nature following the win, stating, “We absolutely slayed it.” The Stelts, along with their friendly rivals, the Paton Brothers from England, have a long-standing competition in the giant pumpkin growing world. Despite his success, Dave Stelts had his eyes set on the Grower of the Year award rather than the world record, viewing the latter as a stroke of luck.
Initially considering retirement after winning the prestigious award, Stelts has now fueled his passion for pumpkin growing even further and is determined to remain on top. The Paton Brothers, although not available for comment, shared their commitment to breaking the 3,000-pound mark in their pursuit of giant pumpkin growing.
Described as a “sickness” by Ian Paton, the rivalry between Stelts and the Paton Brothers continues to push the boundaries of the giant pumpkin growing world. While the Stelts celebrate their recent victory, the competition and quest for record-breaking pumpkins show no signs of slowing down.
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