Shawn J. Soper
Managing Editor
FENWICK- After searching for possible new locations across Delmarva, including Worcester County at one point, the World Championship Punkin’ Chunkin’ competition is heading back to its roots.
The WCPCA announced this week the World Championship Punkin’ Chunkin’ Championship, slated for November 4-6, is returning to the Wheatley’s Farm in Bishopville where it was last successfully held in 2013. WCPCA President Frank Payton last week confirmed an agreement had been worked out with Wheatley’s to return the popular event to Sussex County this year and possibly beyond. After an exhaustive five month long search for land, the association should be able to breathe a little easier.
“There is a certain level of relief that we are returning to where we have been successfully able to hold the event but we still have a lot ahead of us,” said Payton, referring to the cost to put on the event.
An insurance policy required to protect the landowner will cost the association nearly three times what they previously paid. Costs to host the event have increased over the years and after not having the event for two years, the association will now start focusing on the budget.
“People need to realize that we are a non-profit and all the money we make at our annual event is given back,” said Payton. Since 2000, over one million dollars has been donated to charities and scholarships for kids seeking degrees, mainly in the agricultural and engineering related fields of study.”
With the continued support and assistance of Delaware Senator Brian Pettyjohn, some members of the WCPCA board met with Governor Markell and the Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO) to discuss what assistance can be offered to this Delaware tradition that started in 1986. The event attracted about 30,000 spectators in 2013.