Winning Piccolo sand sculpture inspired by ‘The Hunger Games’

 

The Best of Show overall winners for the 24th annual Piccolo Spoleto Sand Sculpting Competition seized on the popularity of “The Hunger Games” books and movie and re-created the Mockingjay pin that protagonist Katniss Everdeen wore to represent rebellion.

Compared to some, from massive castles to a life-sized polar bear, Mockingjay measured no more than a yard in diameter and sat barely raised above the sand. But it was meticulous in detail.

The sculptors — Rachael and Jeff Mahaffey of Hanahan and Michael and Krista Mowrer of Summerville — are among a loyal band of amateur, yet very competitive, sculptors who regularly participate at the annual event along the Isle of Palms “front beach.”

Among the others are the Mitch Embler family, Jack Tracey, David Burt and Jack Case, all out again battling the sun, sand, sweat and hundreds of spectators who ask questions while they try to complete sculptures within a time limit.

Organizer Chris Tindal said team and individual registrations nearly doubled — a total of 48 — over last year’s contest, but fell short of the record of 62 in 2010.

“An amazing thing this year,” said Tindal, “is that more than half of the teams are families. We like that because we want parents bringing kids out to be involved in this family-oriented, fun event.”