CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — Under perfect autumn skies near the Pinckney Street stage, 51 young drivers took to the track on Thursday, October 22, for the 48th annual Circleville Pumpkin Show Big Wheel Race. Sponsored by the Circleville Noon Rotary Club, the signature tradition once again brought high-energy competition and local pride to downtown Circleville.
Crossing the finish line to take top honors in this year’s competition was 4-year-old Wyatt Allenbaugh of New Holland, son of Lori and James Allenbaugh.
Taking second place was 5-year-old Aubrey Downs of Circleville, daughter of Kiera Queen and Mason Downs. Rounding out the podium in third place was 4-year-old Easton Gifford of Laurelville, son of Miranda and Shane Gifford.
All three top finishers earned custom winner’s t-shirts and commemorative trophies featuring locally crafted ceramic pumpkins. The trophies were made by Maria Polacek of Inspiration Ceramics and Stephanie Speight of Circleville. The event t-shirts featured custom artwork designed by former Circleville High School art student Jaymen Salas, printed locally by The Red Barn.
The event brought out a large crowd of cheering fans, featuring returning champions from previous years as well as three sets of siblings—including one set of twins—competing in the field.
“It takes a lot of Circleville Noon Rotarian volunteers to produce the Circleville Pumpkin Show Big Wheel Race each year, and we are so happy to do it,” said Jim Hooks, Big Wheel Race Chairman for the Circleville Noon Rotary Club. “It has become a signature event and it is Americana at its best. It is pure excitement and joy for the kids, parents, and our community to hear the crowd roar as the kids race for glory. These kids will likely remember this event for the rest of their lives”.
The Rotary Club notes that registration for next year’s race will open in September 2027 for children aged 4 and 5.
