In an event of immense pride and prestige, a Vancouver Island resident has claimed the top award at this year’s B.C.’s giant pumpkin contest. The highly anticipated annual competition took place over the Thanksgiving weekend.
The honoree, Kerri Perras, herded a tremendous pumpkin, affectionately christened ‘Walter,’ from her Campbell River backyard to Langley. The giant Atlantic specimen became an instant local celebrity, attracting attention and congratulations from ferry workers during its transportation.
Walter tipped the scale at an impressive 1,152 pounds and outshone the runner-up by a significant 128 pounds. “Winning first place is thrilling, but achieving a personal best is irreplaceable,” expressed a jubilant Perras. She attributes Walter’s monumental success to superior genes and rich, fertile soil. However, she doesn’t discount her daily dedicated time in the pumpkin patch.
Krause Berry Farms in Langley served as the backdrop to the 2023 contest, witnessing a procession of heavyweights strut their stuff on an industrial scale. The competition, the only certified event of its kind in Western Canada, extended beyond giant pumpkins, featuring categories such as prettiest pumpkin, longest gourd, and giant watermelon.
The sun may have set on the contest, but Walter’s journey continues. Perras plans to transport the distinguished gourd back to the Island, offering it a new residence at the Coastal Black Winery, renowned for its annual pumpkin fest. She expresses a preference for children enjoying Walter’s majesty during the Halloween season rather than an exclusive showcase in her front yard.
She further elaborated, “I’d rather not deal with the post-season pumpkin dilemma. Having the winery care for Walter is a sheer delight.” Thus, Walter has a bright future ahead, as prominent within its new homestead as it was in the pumpkin contest.
