CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — History, family tradition, and potential record-breaking gourds are set to collide on Wednesday at the annual Circleville Pumpkin Show weigh-off, where a local grandfather and grandson duo could shatter both show and state records.
Troy VanArsdalen’s journey into competitive giant pumpkin growing began just three years ago following casual conversations with local growers. It didn’t take long for the hobby to turn into a passion. The excitement proved infectious, drawing in his family—including his grandson, Abel—who joined the effort last year when they began growing companion pumpkins.
After Abel’s pumpkin tipped the scales at an impressive 600 pounds last year, the young grower set a goal to smash his personal best in 2025. He has done just that. Taping out at an estimated 1,800 pounds, Abel’s massive pumpkin is positioned to contend for a top-three finish at this year’s show.
Meanwhile, VanArsdalen is eyeing an even bigger prize. His monstrous entry tapes out at an estimated 2,500 pounds—a weight that puts him within striking distance of both the Circleville Pumpkin Show record and the Ohio state record.
What makes VanArsdalen’s run remarkable is his relative newcomer status. In just his third year of growing, he has achieved a yield that eluded veteran competitors during a challenging growing season, including last year’s Pumpkin Show champion Mike Helberg and prominent grower Dr. Liggett.
All eyes will be on the scales on Wednesday, Oct. 20, as officials, growers, and spectators gather to see if VanArsdalen and young Abel will officially claim their place in the record books—and celebrate a lifelong memory together on the stage.
