30th World Championship Of...

. . . Melon-seed spitting!

Why of course. The delicious, regional orange melons
definitely deserve some type of championship involving them.

So here you have it folks, the MELODROME.
Sounds intimidating right? Well, what's even more intimidating is that the
record-holder from last year spit a stunning 10.46 meters. NO way...

As the sign behind the moderator says, today is the 30th world champion
of melon-seed spitting. There are specific techniques and a competitive
streak in the air, as the contestants sign up for a spot.

There are people of all ages, with everyone competing within their
age group. Grab a number and we're OFF!

Note the careful lip structure...

...and the gesture that says..."oh, come on, it's just there!"

...and the impressively straight posture and raised eyebrows.
That's got to help, right?

...and finally we have the eyes closed.
Leave it up to fate where the tiny seed will land.

And a SPIT...and a measure..which came out at
OVER 6 meters long! Nice, Chris.

Most of the time at this event was spent actually finding the offending
seed that someone just spit-- seeing as though the seeds are small and
cream-colored, and the floor is dusty and neutral-colored.
Audience participation was always a huge help in the search.

As we had to leave early, we don't know the outcome,
but I'm sure the rest of the afternoon was full of plenty of slimy
seeds and happy people.