Sand sculptors compete for $6,000 prize in New Hampshire

June 21 (UPI) -- Some of the top sand sculptors in the world gathered on a New Hampshire beach and created intricate works of sand art, with the first place finisher earning a $6,000 prize.

Abe Waterman, a Prince Edward Island, Canada, sculptor who took second place in last year's event, was declared the winner of the 21st Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic, with his sculpture, titled Empty, earning him the top prize.

"I designed it about a year and a half ago when I broke up with my wife," Waterman told WCVB-TV. "Unfortunately, it's a sentiment that still visits me from time to time."

Melineige Beauregard, the Montreal, Canada, competitor who took first place in 2020, came in second with her piece, Phoenix Rising. She was awarded a $4,000 prize, as well as a $1,000 bonus for winning the People's Choice Award.

The sculptures from the event will remain in place through Sunday, organizers said.