Newport Beach : Sand Castle Contest Scheduled for Sunday

The 24th annual sand castle and sand-sculpturing contest sponsored by the Commodores Club will take place at Corona del Mar State Park from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday. Entrants, who in the past have used wet sand and the tide to shape everything from sprawling castles to intricately designed human faces, will be competing for trophies to be awarded during a special ceremony after 2 p.m.

Prizes will be awarded to competitors representing business firms, families and individuals, church and civic organizations, service clubs and youth groups. The most unusual, most humorous and best overall sand sculptures will receive special trophies. The entry fee is $20, payable to the Newport Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce, but the fee can be waived for student groups if requested in advance.

Competitors can be of any age. They may use any hand tools and props they wish, but must use biodegradable food colors, sponsors said.