Behind the national giant pumpkin championship that takes place every year in Pontedera (Pisa) organized by Lo Zuccone, we find genetic research and great attention on crossbreeds.
The podium of the 2019 edition (all photos taken from the Association's Facebook page)
"The 2019 edition was won by Stefano Cutrupi with a weight of 818.50 kg. Our weighing method is approved by GPC and valid for international championships. For example, on October 12th, Cutrupi will attend the Champions League in Germany," explains Lo Zuccone president Alessio Ribechini.
Image from a past edition
Special genetics is needed to obtain pumpkins this big. The variety used is Atlantic Giant and crossbreeds are used to obtain even better performances.
Danilo Squitieri and Serena Barbato
Cutrupi also holds the national absolute record with a pumpkin that weighed 982 kg. The world record is held by Mathias Willemijns with 1,190.5 kg.
Emanuele Garofano grew this pumpkin on the island of Capri
The 2019 championship took place on September 22nd with 15 participants from all over Italy. The event was sponsored by technical equipment company Agritalia.
The pumpkin grown by Vincenzo Italiano
Contacts
Ass. Lo Zuccone
Tel.: (+39) 0587.484099
Website: http://www.lozuccone.it/wp/