Bob Brasted is back at it, growing something huge.
Brasted has been growing massive pumpkins for 15 years and is coming off a record year. At the Oakview Post Office, just past the Narrows Sunset Lodge, Bob's goal has always been to grow a pumpkin reaching 1,000 pounds.
Last summer, he achieved that. His pumpkin was 1,212 pounds. That crushed his previous high by almost 300 pounds. What started as a hobby has turned into a passion.
"Oh, it was wonderful," said Brasted. "It was the first time over 1,000 pounds. It's the first time in 15 years it's ever been that high. It was fantastic."
Bob's 2026 pumpkin was planted in the middle of July. For those not familiar with planting pumpkins, that's quite late. Poor weather forced Bob to hold off planting. In a typical year, he plants the pumpkin in late April or early May.
As of late last week, Bob's pumpkin weighs 507 pounds. The pumpkin has been growing 24.5 pounds per day.
While Brasted isn't sure if the pumpkin will beat last year's record, he's pleased with how it's grown.
"It's just fun; it's a nice hobby," said Brasted. "I love to see how big I can grow the pumpkin."
If you'd like to see the giant pumpkin in person, Bob says come on down. You can go during the week by heading to the Narrows and continuing driving east down Highway 68 for about five miles. As you drive, you'll see a sign for Highway 325.
From there, turn left and proceed for a mile. It'll be your first house. You'll see a greenhouse on your left. There's also a little sign that says Oakview Post Office.
Once the growing season is over, Bob will take the pumpkin to Ashern and place it in the parking lot at Chicken Chef for everyone to see.
Ian and Stuart Paton from England are the world record holders for growing a pumpkin. Their pumpkin weighed 2,819 pounds and four ounces.
