The first American Autoflower Cup was held Green Street in Downtown Los Angeles from January 27–28, 2023.[4][5] It was the first national breeding competition for autoflowering cannabis, with the first international autoflower breeding competition being the Autoflower World Cup, held annually in Barcelona, Spain.[1][2][6] Prior to founding the American Autoflower Cup, Norrie had helped organize the Secret Cup and the Chalice Festival, two other cannabis-related events in Los Angeles.[4][7]
The judges for the first American Autoflower Cup included Joey Burger, Daniel Morford, Nick Bradley, and Jenny-Beth Dillis.[4][6] Fast Buds’ Strawberry Gorilla strain received the first prize in the sativa category.[6][8] The Strawberry Gorilla strain from Fast Buds was also named the most potent strain in the competition, with a THC level of over 29% THC.[9][10] Fast Buds’ Banana Purple Punch strain received the first prize in the indica category.[8] Mephisto Genetics was named the best autoflower breeder.[4]
The second American Autoflower Cup was held in February 2024.[1][2][6] Industry professionals such as Haylo Autoflowers, Juvar from Dusa Farms, Blazin’ Skywalker, and Neil and Heaven from Highigan.[1][2]
At the American Autoflower Cup, strains are judged according to categories such as appearance, aroma, taste, and the judge’s overall experience of smoking them.[1] Cannabis testing labs Encore Labs and Leafworks test all entrant strains to ensure they fit the event’s requirements and are safe to consume.[2]
