The weather begins to be a little chilly with cool mornings and some snow recently. The leaves turn their many shades of yellow, orange, and maroon garnering a splendor of spectacular colors. Fall harvest is in progress. The end of October nears, and what does that mean? It‘s time for Petersburg’s Annual Punkin’Chunkin’TM.
For the past five years, Petersburg’s Community Club has sponsored the annual Punkin’ Chunkin’TM. It is held in conjunction with the World Championship Punkin’ Chunkin’TM Association. Punkin’ shooter winners in the local contest are eligible to compete in the national competition.
Machines can shoot, launch, throw or fling a 6-12 lb. pumpkin. Community volunteers or club members drive four wheelers through the corn or soybean fields and measure distance shot by a Global Positioning System (GPS). Longest distance shot in 2008 was 3,071 feet from an air gun.
There are four divisions: air gun, mechanical, trebuchet and catapult. A $500 award is given for the longest distance.
Petersburg State Bank puts up $500 for a chance to win during the accuracy contest. There is no entry fee, and safety rules apply. There is a high school division where a trophy is awarded. No explosives are allowed.
Crowds cheer on their favorite teams and approximately 2,000 people attended last year’s event.
The action begins at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 25, one mile east of Petersburg. There is free admission, and many free activities are available for the whole family. A shuttle service is available from the parking lot, so bring your favorite lawn chair and come and enjoy the day. In case of inclement weather, the storm date will be the next Sunday, Nov. 1.
