Great Coupeville Pumpkin Race 2025 Rules and Procedures
There have been several rule updates for 2025. Please review carefully, or your racer may not qualify to race!
1. Pumpkin Racer Construction
1.1 Pumpkin Power
Each racer must be built using a single pumpkin or squash, whole or carved, in any shape.
1.2 Axles
The racer must use two axles that are independent of each other (axles must not be connected directly to one other), and must pass through the pumpkin.
1.3 Wheels
Wheels of any size or type may be used. A minimum of 3 wheels must be in contact with the ground.
1.4 No Pre-built Bases
Using prefabricated bases like skateboards, toy cars, strollers, or similar structures is strictly prohibited.
1.5 Gravity Powered Only
The racer must rely solely on gravity for propulsion. No motors, batteries, fans, explosives, pyrotechnics, or pushing are allowed.
1.6 Maximum Size
Racers must be no larger than 24” wide by 24” long. Otherwise, they will not fit on the starting gate / launch ramp.
2. Race Procedures
2.1 Registration
All racers must register prior to the race. You can also register on the day of the event, just be sure to get there early!
2.2 Inspection
Prior to the race, all pumpkin racers will be inspected to ensure compliance with the rules. Racers not meeting the guidelines will be given the opportunity to alter their racer so that it does comply. Non-compliant racers will not be allowed to race.
2.3 Race Heats
Races will be conducted in heats with two racers competing at a time. The winner of each heat will advance to the next round.
2.4 Fair Start
Race officials will ensure a fair start with no shoving, flicking, or early release.
2.5 Winner (new)
The pumpkin racer that either travels the farthest, or crosses the finish line first will be considered the winner. There will be no readjusting or repositioning of the racer once the race begins.
2.6 Stuck Pumpkins (new)
If a pumpkin stops its forward progress due to collision with either the hay bales or the other racer, that will be considered its FINAL position.
3. Judging
3.1 Fastest Pumpkin
The winner will be the pumpkin racer that either completes the race track in the fastest time, or travels the farthest, during the final heat.
3.2 Most Creative Design
A separate panel of judges will evaluate all racers based on creativity, theme, and overall design.
3.3 Final Say
The Race Officials have the final say on eligibility, winners, and rule interpretations.
4. Sportsmanship
4.1 Cheating
Honesty and fair play are expected. Cheating will not be tolerated. Disqualified racers will forfeit their heat.
4.2 Creativity
Design and build your racer from a single pumpkin. Whole or carved, decorate your racer however you like. Be creative!
4.3 Catastrophic Collisions
Most pumpkin racers will not survive the day intact. Bumping and collisions are part of the race!
4.4 Kindness First
It’s easy to get carried away and take this all too seriously. Be kind to your neighbors, and have fun!
