Title: “First Prize” Circa: 1973 Photo: Ron Raffaelli
The Legend. The Myth.
The earliest record of a cannabis home grower receiving an award is a black and white picture of a charming granny winning first prize for her weed plant at the California City County Fair in the early 1970s.
The photo titled “1st Prize” by Ron Raffaelli, supposedly taken around 1973, is quite an interesting piece. It depicts an elderly woman proudly holding up a marijuana plant, which she won first prize for at the County Fair. The image is often shared on social media for its humorous and somewhat rebellious nature, especially considering the legal status of cannabis at the time.
Authenticity
Is this really the oldest record of a cannabis grower being rewarded with a prize?
Well, there is some debate about the authenticity of the photo. Some believe it might have been a staged or novelty photo rather than a genuine competition entry. Regardless, it has been widely circulated and appreciated for its charm and the story it tells.
Cannabis Competitions
In the 1970s and 1980s, actual cannabis harvest festivals were largely underground events. These gatherings were secretive, bringing together illicit growers and enthusiasts to celebrate their crops and share knowledge. The festivals were a way for the cannabis community to connect and showcase their best weed, despite the legal risks involved.
The first official cannabis competition, the High Times Cannabis Cup, was held in Amsterdam in November 1988. It was initiated by Steven Hager, then-editor of High Times magazine. Inspired by the underground harvest festivals in Northern California, Hager envisioned a more formal competition where growers could compete for recognition. Hager chose Amsterdam due to its tolerant stance on marijuana, allowing for a public celebration without the same level of legal risk.
Today, cannabis competitions and festivals are highly publicized and regulated events. They attract a global audience and participants from across the cannabis industry.
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