26th annual Coney Island Sand Sculpting Contest another big success

August 23, 2016 Jaime DeJesus

BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP/ Photos by Corazon Aguirre

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A tradition is sculpted in Brooklyn.

It was a busy day at Coney Island as it celebrated the 26^th annual Sand Sculpting Contest on Saturday, August 20.

The day, hosted by Brooklyn Community Services and Astella Development Corp., featured over 60 sand sculptures from both amateur and semi-professional artists of all ages.

Judges for this year’s contest, which spanned from 12-4 p.m., included Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver, Assemblymember Pamela Harris, and Councilmember Mark Treyger who chose winners based on unique creativity and artistic execution.

“What better way to enjoy the summertime than a sand sculpting contest in iconic Coney Island,” Silver said. “The contest makes fun and creative use of one of New York City’s most treasured beaches, and Parks is always happy to host it.”

Categories included family, individual adult and group adult sand sculpting. Along with bragging rights, top winners in each category received a $250 cash prize.

Taking first place in the adult group were Larry Watkins, Dave Bobal and Tom Oldewurtel who sculpted the “Creature from the Black Lagoon.” Taking advantage of the new Pokemon Go craze, the Andrade family took first in the family category with the “Pokemon Cell Phone.” Jose Aguirre won the individual adult honors, with “Three Mermaids.”

Borough President Eric Adams also made an appearance to congratulate the winners of the contest.

Last year, the Coney Island Sand Sculpting Contest attracted more than 10,000 attendees, and a similarly large crowd turned out this year.

“The 26th Annual Coney Island Sand Sculpting Contest was a fun, family day at historic Coney Island beach,” said Jodi Querbach, deputy chief operating officer, programs at Brooklyn Community Services. “This year marks Brooklyn Community Services’ 150th Anniversary. We would like to thank the Coney Island community for the opportunity to host this great event.”