Sand sculpting on 'America's best beach'
Friday, 16 September 2011 12:00 AM
The event will provide many memorable sights
Holidaymakers will soon be able to see some unusual and impressive sights at a seafront location that has been named America's best beach for 2011.
The Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Competition will take place in Sarasota County, Florida from November 10th to 14th.
A dozen teams comprising two expert sculptors will be visiting the destination to compete for the title and prize money of £11,000.
Teams from the US, Canada and Europe are set to take part in this year's event, which will be the contest's second outing following its successful introduction in 2010.
Spectators will be able to see the stars of the Travel Channel show SandMasters working on some unique creations, while hour-long sand sculpting demonstrations will provide an insight into the craft.
The competition will also include speed sculpting challenges and provide the opportunity for visitors to have their photograph taken from inside some holiday-themed sculptures.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Mote Marine Laboratory's sea turtle research, rescue, rehabilitation and conservation programmes.
Siesta Key beach in Sarasota was recently named America's best seafront hotspot by the director of Florida International University's Laboratory for Coastal Research Dr Stephen P Leatherman, also known as Dr Beach.
The ranking is based on criteria such as sand and water quality, weather conditions, cleanliness and safety.
In the 2011 list, Siesta Key beat coastal locations in San Diego, Hawaii, New York and North Carolina, which completed the top five.
Travellers planning a trip to Sarasota can reach the destination with holiday companies such as Bon Voyage, which is offering seven nights at the Helmsley Sandcastle hotel and return flights from £859 per person.
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