It all Started in 1986 and was itheld the first weekend after Halloween, this event is the World Championship pumpkin-throwing contest. Approximately 100 competing teams construct and fire a variety of pumpkin-launching devices, including catapults, trebuchets, centrifugal machines and pneumatic air cannons. Currently, the longest distances have been in excess of 4,400 feet, fired from pneumatic air cannons. Each launcher gets the best of three shots, with duds (pumpkin pie in the sky) counting as zero feet. Launchers typically hurl white pumpkins because they can better withstand the forces of launch than the orange ones. Officials mark each chunk with a small, color coded flag. Other event higlights include a carnival area with amusement rides and food vendors and a cooking contest, where locals can enter their favorite pumpkin recipes. 

I will definitly be there next year to experience what it like to fire a pumpkin out of an air cannon.

So now that you know what its all about you can get ready preparing your entry the 2009 Championship.

source: www.punkinchunkin.com