I will always be honored to have been hired by world renowned sand sculptor, Gary Kirk, to lead construction of Pelly's Miniature Golf in Del Mar.

After three seasons of building massive sandcastle forms and managing excavation + running heavy equipment on the beach for Discovery Channel's "explosive" television show, Sand Blasters (they blew up the sandcastles as the friendly competition narrowed to its winner), Gary Kirk, founder of the World Sand Sculpting Academy, who led the competition for the show, won the contract for Pelly’s Mini Golf, and he invited me along for the ride.

Collaborating with Kirk, who's sand sculpting and aquatic vision for the course won the contract, I was charged with adding form + function through construction, concrete and plumbing. In partnership, we brought to life his sea creatures + surf scenes. I also enjoyed building the piers, lighthouse and pirate ship that Kirk envisioned as the centerpiece.

It was such a privilege working on this project + reviving the old mini golf property, which I visited as a kid, and spent countless hours skateboarding the pools next door at the historic Del Mar Skate Ranch.

It was a pleasure working with Gary. He was a great man, artist and friend. He is sorely missed..

Photo credit: Gary Kirk