'Incredibly saddened': Long-running B.C. sand sculpture competition damaged by vandals
One of B.C.’s most beloved summer events was targeted by vandals over the weekend, and organizers are asking for the public’s help in tracking down those responsible for damaging its massive sand sculptures.
The 44th annual Parksville Beach Festival is taking place until Aug. 16, with a summer concert series, artisan market, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
Beachfest is highlighted by the Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition, with sculptors from around the world carving huge masterpieces out of sand and water.
However, Parksville Beach Festival Society (PBFS) posted over the weekend that it was “deeply disappointed” to learn that several sculptures were damaged by vandalism.
Parksville Beach Festival
- You might also like:
- Vancouver bus rider injured after being struck by skateboard in stranger attack
- Metro Vancouver temperatures spiking this week, but showers linger in forecast
- 'Extremely concerning': Police beef up presence in busy Burnaby park after indecent acts
“Our talented sculptors are now spending valuable time repairing their works so they can be enjoyed throughout the Exhibition’s five-week run,” posted the society on social media on Sunday.
“This is especially disheartening considering the incredible dedication of the artists, volunteers and staff who have worked tirelessly to bring this beloved Parksville tradition to life.”
The international competition began with the “pound up” on Thursday, July 9, where the 30 sculptors prepared to transform 255 cubic yards of sand into the giant artworks.
Parksville Beach Festival
Organizers shared that four sculptures were damaged by someone who had entered the secured competition site overnight on Saturday.
PBFS added that it had security on site and is working with them to review the situation.
A reward is also being offered for info that leads to the identification of those responsible for the damage to the sand sculptures.
“We are incredibly saddened that the hard work of our sculptors, volunteers and staff was affected in this way,” said Cheryl Dill, president of PBFS, in a statement.
“This festival is built on community spirit. The best way to support our artists, volunteers and everyone who makes this festival possible is to visit the Exhibition, celebrate these incredible works of art and show our sculptors that their hard work is valued and appreciated.”
Parksville Beach Festival
Winners of the Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition were announced on Monday, though the Doubles Competition was not officially judged due to the vandalism.
“Following discussions with Master Judge Peter Vogelaar, all doubles teams collectively agreed that the prize money would be shared equally among the competitors in recognition of their outstanding work and sportsmanship,” stated PBFS.
Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity at the Parksville Beach & Community Park, or has information about this incident, is asked to contact the society at info@parksvillebeachfest.ca or 250-951-2678, or contact local authorities.