Fort Myers Beach 2009 Sand Castle contest - Day One

The annual Fort Myers Beach Sand Castle contest started Tuesday Nov 3, 2009. This day is used for welcoming sculptors, layout for the various locations and preparing for the first carving event. There are several significant changes in the event for 2009. Rather than spread out between the Fort Myers Beach Holiday Inn and the Outrigger Resort this year will see a smaller footprint consisting of the main activities on the beach side of the Holiday Inn and the Point Estero building. This should make it easier for visitors to see all of the entries.

Shown here is the mound of sand destined for the corporate logos of sponsors. Katie Corning, Site Director and accomplished sculptor, discusses the finer points of the sand found right here on Fort Myers Beach . It is considered to be some of the best in the world !

The Chamber of Commerce also determined that the " Master " entries would be roped off and admission would be charged starting Saturday: $3 for kids, $5 foradults & $10 for a family pass.

This is how the site looks after initial preparation. Next will come the individual sites for each of the carvers. The contest is carefully monitored and carvers are not allowed any helpers once the event kicks off.

Bill Gillhespy is a Century 21 Realtor, resident of Fort Myers Beach and loves sharing the island with visitors. 239 699-7128