The Third Annual Gulf Coast Rising Stars Talent Competition was held in conjunction with the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival June 14 and 15. As presenting sponsor for the Balloon Festival, Tanger Outlets in Foley hosted the competition.

A total of 24 contestants competed for cash prizes, tickets to the Brad Paisley concert at The Wharf, and a chance to perform in front of thousands of spectators at the balloon festival Saturday evening. Judges looked for performer’s, who were entertaining, promising, had natural ability and audience appeal.

The Junior Division - age 15 and younger - competed on June 14. First place winner was Tori Dahlgren from Mobile singing “Maybe” acapella. Second place went to Savannah Litton of Gulf Shores performing “At Last.” Third place was awarded to Brileight Wyckoff of Daphne who sang “Wings.”

The Adult Division – age 16 and older – competed on June 15. Winners included: first place, Anna Maria Streety from Hayden, performing “My Heart Will Go On;” second place, Corey Davis of Robertsdale who played guitar and sang “Loves Me Like Jesus Does;” third place, Matthew Long from Fairhope who also played guitar and sang “Changed.”

The first place winners in each division received a cash prize of $200, second place $100, and third place $50. The top two contestants in each division competed for “Best of the Fest” and an additional $200 cash prize. Audience members selected Anna Maria Streety to receive the award.

For more festival or competition information, visit gulfcoastballoonfestival.com or contact the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce at 251-943-3291.