Video from the 9th Annual Sand Sculpting Competition:

The rain was hovering dangerously close but had not yet hit the beach as of Thursday morning on the first week of the 9th Annual Sand Sculpting Competition at Hampton Beach.  The event draws 15 Master Sand Sculptors from all over the world to try their hand and sand at competition (and $15,000 in cash prizes).  The event, which was started by Hampton Beach sand sculptor Greg Grady, has become a highly sought after competition for the community of sculptors, many of whom travel from competition to competition throughout the year.  

This year the theme of the demo site was "Five Star Rated Beaches," a reference to the fact the Hampton Beach has received a 5-Star rating from the National Resources Defense Council in 2007.  The rating was based on a number of factors, including water quality, safety, cleanliness and value. 

Some of the sculptures on the demo site include a whale, the platypus trolley, a mermaid kissing a fish, a lifeguard, a seal, and a sand castle.  They also feature logos from the area sponsors who have really embraced this annual event.  This year, two sculptors are offering free professional sand sculpting lessons for the kid in everyone on June 18, 19 and 20.  You do have to sign up, but it's your chance to tackle "Dune Island", and it's an incredible opportunity to learn how the pros do it.

The sand sculptors were hard at work today building their individual sculptures, some of which are near 20 feet high.  It will be interesting to see what takes shape this year.  Every year the sculptures are more creative and incredibly details.  They have 21 hours over 3 days to complete their sculpture.  Judging will take place on Saturday, June 20 and awards will be handed out on Saturday evening. 

Update:

The Winners were:

People's Choice:  Marc Lepire of Quebec."Captain M...Arrrghk"

Sculptor's Choice:  Marc Lepire of Quebec. "Captain M...Arrrghk"

Judge's Choice:

First: Carl Jara of Lyndhurst, Ohio. "Blossom"

Second: Karen Fralich of Ontario. "Dueling Grannies."

Third: Justin Gordon of Groveland, Mass., "Whispering Oak"

Fourth: Michel Lepire of Quebec. "Garden Delight"

Fifth: Lucinda Wierenga of South Padre Island, Texas. "Peeping Tom"