5th Annual Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest

That festive event, the Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest, was held on October, 21, 2001 - and it was RAINING again (and windy). Sunday dawned, as these days so often do, with rain and wind. The original plan was to hold the event at the King Coho Resort but this was quickly changed to (the more protected???) Kin Beach. After checking out the conditions, 24 intrepid divers and their pumpkins entered the surf. After a fun ride (I wasn't diving, so this is the impression I had while watching from the beach) the ocean surfed 24 divers and their creations back to the beach. Surf entries and exits were practiced with some semblance of success.

After telling tales and eating hot dogs, the prizes were dispersed.
Best pumpkin was won by Helena Beal, with Steve Grey getting second prize.
Derek McAuley won for most mutilated pumpkin. Happy Gilmore commented that, as his buddy, he had to give Derek a wide berth to save himself from the thrashing knife blade.
Jen Sprout and Melissa Bates, two of the Campbell River contingent, won for best costume as Ariel - the little mermaid and her octopus side kick - Ursula.

Fun was had by all, but I did have to promise good weather for next year's event in Campbell River

 ~ Kevin Bates