From castles to otters to sharks and Harry Potter, the annual Rockaway Sandcastle Contest on Sunday, August 2 was a success!
Councilwoman Joann Ariola and her staff, including Chief of Staff Phyllis Inserillo, once again led the charge and hosted this great Rockaway tradition with the help of NYC Parks and The Rockaway Times. Dozens of creative locals and visitors got their hands sandy to come up with unique works of art on Beach 109th Street.
All participants received giveaways like America 250 chocolates from Madeleine’s and little Rockaway Times shovels, plus more. Talent was abundant across the beach but only the top three in three age categories; ages 9 and under, 10-18 and 19 and up, won some fabulous prizes generously donated by local businesses. Prize and giveaway donations came from Rocco’s of Roc Beach, The Rockaway Hotel, The Rockaway Times, Stop and Shop, Rockaway Beach Pickleball & Golf, The Gift is Love, Meat Up Grill, Callie’s, Harbor Light, Bagel Barista, Pico/Batesy’s, Boardwalk Bagel, Key Food, Bungalow Bar, Crustinos, Ciros, Mirkin Vision Care and Madeleine’s Chocolates.
Judges had the tough time of deciding who would win first, second and third place in each age category. This year’s judges included Councilwoman Joann Ariola, Rockaway Beach Civic Association President Bridget Klapinski and NYC Parks staff.
This year’s winners in the 9 and under category included: First Place – The Odd-ers, team Clyde, Maud and Sloan who made an adorable otter; Second Place – Team Shark, made up of Gabby, Abby, Nicholas, Thomas, Kate and Emma, who recreated a shark attack; and Third Place- Team Sea Monkeys who created Howells Moving Castle.
In the 10-18 age category, in First Place was team Triple Trouble, made up of Simone, Isabella, Juliette, Claire and Maggie, who won a $100 prize from The Rockaway Times for their added touch of a 3-D America 250 heart and flag to their creation, Violet Octopus. In Second Place was Avery’s Cool Crew, made up of Sinai, Avery and Coleman, who created a stingray. In Third Place was Kyle who made Harry Potter’s Hogwarts castle.
In the 19 and up category, in First Place was team Rockaway Sand Gardners, made up of Daniel, Marcella and Emily, for Harrison and Layla’s Castle. In Second Place was the Hamiltonians, made up of Laurie, Kenny, Monica, Angel, Richie and baby Christopher, for Kings Landing. In Third Place was Vinny for his Tunnel to Towers creation in honor of America 250.
“Every year the sandcastle contest shows us some of the most creative and artistic minds Rockaway has to offer, and this year did not disappoint!” Councilwoman Joann Ariola said. “I’d like to thank everyone who came out and put their skills on display, all of the businesses who donated so many amazing prizes, and The Rockaway Times and my Chief of Staff, Phyllis Inserillo, for their hard work in organizing this event. You all made this a truly unforgettable day on the beach!”
