Ice Sculpting Competition Draws Crowds in Downtown Gillette

GILLETTE, Wyo. (AP) — An ice carving competition drew crowds of holiday shoppers in downtown Gillette. Participants used chainsaws to sculpt ice into figures including Santa Claus and a seahorse.

Competitor Brandon Guffey tells the Gillette News Record the best part of the competition is seeing children get excited about the sculptures taking shape before their eyes.

Mitch Benson says he doesn't practice with a chainsaw beforehand but has a “knack for art.” The judges agreed. Benson won first place this year for his snowman sculpture.

The Santa Claus won second place and the seahorse third place in the competition Dec. 5.