(upbeat classical music) (upbeat classical music continues) - I was excited to get in the pumpkin.

It's really hard to balance and stuff.

They kinda like have you stuff your body in there and give you a paddle and off I went.

- [Announcer] Let's start it off in five, four, three, two, one, go racers.

(upbeat classical music continues) - How often do you get to see people paddle in pumpkins and costumes?

- I like all the community.

I like being able to get everybody together, seeing the costumes, and everyone's always in a great mood around this time of year.

It's a lot of fun.

- Oh, we love it.

Yeah, there's just tons of different stuff to do.

Good vendors, good prizes for the kids.

It's really good.

- I like the checkers game.

(upbeat classical music continues) - Normally, you'll find me paddling out on rivers or on the ocean, but now I'm gonna be paddling in a pumpkin.

Okay, just step in?

- Yep, step in.

I got it.

Waddle in.

Good, yeah?

- Thank you.

- Comfortable?

All right.

- Woo!

I'm gonna do my otter most to go out and have a good time.

(upbeat classical music continues) - [Announcer] Fans, are we ready?

(fans cheer) Five, four, three, two, one, go!

(upbeat classical music continues) - [Supporter] Go Tom!

- Woo hoo!

(participant laughs) (upbeat classical music continues) - I am otterly exhausted.

That was the most fun I've had paddling for a year or two.

That was so amazing.

Highly recommend it, if you know anyone who wants to do it.

(upbeat classical music fades) (gentle music) - Getting inspiration for your next adventure.

It's kinda why you're here, right?

Well, you can support more of what we do on Oregon Field Guide and everything else you see on OPB, like going to opb.org/video in becoming a sustaining member.