Sand sculptors compete at Hunting Island State Park

More than 100 people hit the beach at Hunting Island on Saturday for the fourth annual Sand Sculpture Building Contest.

The free event conducted by the Friends of Hunting Island produced works that included dolphins, a lion, a mermaid, the Marine Corps insignia and a sand forest, which won “best-in-show.”

Twenty-nine sculptures and castles competed for prizes in various categories. Winners were:

• Best in Show: Charlie Beamer, Columbia.

• Sand Fleas (8 and younger): 1. Hunter Kerney, Beaufort; 2. Darius and Pam Rahmanian, Leesport, Pa.

• Sand Hoppers (ages 9-15): 1. Alan Gunnels, Laplace, La.; 2. Hannah and Ava Otto, Charleston.

• Sand Tribes (families): 1. Cindy Bolling, Johns Creek; 2. Cardenas, Beaufort.

• Sand Shapers (adult or small team of adults): 1. Abe Stem, Beaufort; 2. Trisha Thomas, Hardeeville.