Regional competition at Rowan University sends pumpkins to worse fate than carving

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers – Rowan University chapter hosts its Sixth Annual Mini Pumpkin Chunkin’ Competition on Friday, October 30, 2009, at 3:00 p.m. on the Rowan Hall Quad — the field between Rowan and Wilson Halls (off Bowe Boulevard on the Glassboro campus).

Marking the Rowan Hall Quad with orange flesh and seeds, Pumpkin Chunkin’ contestants will hurl ornamental-sized pumpkins at various targets. Teams of two to 10 contestants (often in costume) design and construct their entirely human-powered catapult using springs or counterweights that are often six feet tall. The winners will receive various prizes.

Teams from Rowan University, Drexel University and Washington Township High School’s physics club will compete at the event. This year, teams will pursue one large monster target (worth 25 points) and minor zombie targets (worth 10 points), while hoping to avoid hitting trick or treaters for a loss of 5 points.

The event’s festivities include a Halloween costume contest and jack-o-lantern-carving competition for prizes. Three local bands will perform throughout the event.