The organisers – Cullinan Farmers’ Union (TLU SA) – of the annual Goliat van Gat competition are hopeful that next year’s winning pumpkin will weigh one ton. The growing season for next year’s competition is now in full swing.
This year’s winning pumpkin fell just 110kg short of a ton. Wykus Lamprecht was also honoured during TLU SA’s recent Congress for his record-breaking pumpkin weighing 890kg.
“We are very excited about the prospect of another record-breaking giant pumpkin,” says Henri Combrink, the Cullinan Farmers’ Union chairman. “It is also a significant and special milestone for us to host the 20th annual competition in Pretoria on 9 March 2024.”
Interest and participation in the competition have increased significantly in recent years, making it one of the year’s most popular events.
“There are significant prizes at stake for participants, and this year, we will also offer a special prize for the one-ton-plus pumpkin,” says Combrink. “We encourage all prospective giant pumpkin growers to get to work now. The camaraderie and spirit among participants are something special, and everyone supports each other to do better.”
The Goliat van Gat competition is also registered as an official weigh-off point with the Great Pumpkin Commonwealth (GPC), where participants worldwide share their results to compete globally.
All the pumpkins entered in the competition are donated to welfare organisations to contribute where needed.
Registering and ordering seeds for the season and competition is still available. Inquiries can be directed to Henri Combrink at 082 552 9428 or culliboer@gmail.com or TLU SA Head office at 012 804 8031.
