Ft Myers Beach hosted the 31st American Sand Sculpting Championship – November 17 – 26, 2017. This annual event involves over 2,000 tons of sand and 16 very creative artist.
The near perfect weather allowed the sculptors to do what they do best and that is to turn piles of sugar fine white sand into beautiful pieces of art. I do believe that this particular year’s competition was one of the best I have seen over past events.
People came from all around the country, as well as the world to see the annual event – American Sand Sculpting Championship. This year was a particularly special one. Just a few months beforehand, Hurricane Irma unleashed her wrath along Southwest Florida’s costal communities. The devastation created brought some doubt that the event would even happen.
The Sand Sculpting Championship was in jeopardy of either being postponed or relocated. But with the gallant efforts from the Ft Myers Beach community volunteers, its organizers, and dedicated sponsors made a seemingly impossible situation, possible.
The annual event went on without a hitch and was a complete success. Thank you to all involved!
The artist arrived and the crowds began to gather – let the show begin, and that it did! The travel site ‘You, Me and The Dock’ was there to capture it all. This article will be the first part of a 2 part series. Sit back and enjoy the adventure with plenty of great photos and a TTL (True to life) video.
The light blue sky with its sheered clouds welcomed the continuous crowds as they entered the white sand arena. The artists were carving out designs that represented their themes.
When entering the event through the main entrance, the first section you come to is the ‘Advanced Amateurs’. They are competing for a Nationally recognized Championship.
Wade Wheeler with his jovial Santa, first got the bug to become a Sculptor when walking along the beach in Jupiter, Florida. 
Already an artist, in 2010 he entered his first competition. With only a few tools in hand, he miraculously took first place. Wade is now making an appearance in the American Sand Sculpting Championships – Amateur division.
Mitch Guerreo is another Advanced Sculptor who entered the competition with a hopeful future in making it to the elite status list of Master Sand Sculptors. There is not a doubt in my mind that both of these two very talented artist will soon make their dreams come true.
There were several promising amateurs trying to perfect their given talents and at the same time, get a few pointers from the professionals. This is the event to do it. Good luck to all!
The following video shows a few of the Masters working their magic. Their end products are simply amazing. Viewing these magnificent masterpieces live reveals detailed artistry that can’t always be seen in its true form via video. However, seeing our brief video presentation will provide a visual experience that will stimulate your every senses. Sit back and enjoy.
The first couple days of the event were geared towards the single Master Sculptors. 
The “Sculptor’s Choice” award went to World renowned and Master Sculptor Bruce Phillips. His expressive theme articulates a path of circular abstractions.
Taking Second Place is Bruce Waugh from British Columbia, Canada. 
This Master Sculptor has named his creation “There is no elevator to success… You have to take the stairs”. Does this mean hard work brings success and fulfillment? In Bruce’s case, it is 100 percent accurate.
At this particular point we will end the 1st part of our two part series. In the upcoming article – part 2, there will be more fabulous photos and another TTL video. We will also announce the Master Sculptor who captured First Place in the single Masters’ competition.
We hope you enjoyed the read and look forward to seeing you back soon. Love, ‘Laugh & Travel lots!’
Author: Anthony Scopel
Photography: Anthony & Maureen Scopel
Videography: Anthony Scopel & Crew
Article Formatting: Anthony Scopel
Video Production: Anthony Scopel & Matt Kemper
Associate Editor: Maureen Scopel
Technical Mastering & Web Support: Matt Kemper
Publisher: You, Me and The Dock
A big thank you to Tammy Workman and Waterside Realty Group!
