The World Championship Punkin Chunkin competition will return to its original home in Sussex County, but will face a big insurance bill.
According to a press release, Frank Payton, board president of the event, confirmed that the event will be held Nov. 4 through 6.
“An arrangement with the Wheatley has been worked out for the event to return to where it was last held in 2013. Two failed attempts to hold the event at Dover Downs were made in 2014 and 2015.
“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”, Payton stated.
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, more than $1 million has been donated to charities and scholarships for kids seeking degrees, mainly in the agricultural and engineering related fields of study”
With the assistance of state Sen. Brian Pettyjohn, 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,”
“All options are being reviewed to make sure to get this event back on track and to ensure its future,” stated Pettyjohn. “The event attracted about 30,000 spectators in 2013. “Fans stayed in Delaware’s hotels, ate at our restaurants, filled up their vehicles at our gas stations and purchased products or services from Delaware businesses.”
Pettyjohn led unsuccessful efforts to put liability insurance requirements for the event in line with those of neighboring Maryland. Maryland had been viewed as a possible site for the event.
Pettyjohn, R-Georgetown, blamed opposition from trial lawyers for the failure to pass the legislation, a charge they denied.
The insurance issue arose after a suit was filed that involved an event volunteer.
The event has gained national and international attention over the years.
