CHOCOWINITY — A 19-year-old barber school student from New Bern was named Tar Heel Talent Show winner Saturday evening during the grand finale competition hosted by Tar Heel Variety Theater in Chocowinity.

Chad Delph survived two rounds of competition to take first place in the contest, which began Sept. 6 with a round of auditions. Twelve semi-finalists were chosen to compete Saturday for cash prizes and the opportunity to perform during an upcoming Tar Heel Variety Theater concert.

“This is a good, friendly environment, and the owners are extremely nice people,” Delph said after the show. The Tar Heel contest was the first talent competition for the country crooner, who said he has been singing since he was 8 years old. He added that his favorite performer is the late Hank Williams; in fact, Delphperformed three Williams’ hits during the contest. His rendition of “Your Cheatin’ Heart” wowed the judges during the audition round, and for the final night of competition he sang “I Can’t Help It If I’m Still in Love with You” and “I Saw the Light.”

As the first place winner, Delph received a $300 cash prize. He will also perform during the Tar Heel’s Oct. 4 concert starring Billy “Crash” Craddock. Delph said he is grateful for that opportunity.

“I am honored to open for a country legend,” he said.

Finishing second in the contest was Don Shortslef of Garner, who won a $125 cash prize. Shortslef performed “You Raise Me Up” and followed with “God Bless the U.S.A.”, dedicating the second song to those affected by the 9-11 attacks in New York City. Shortslef told the audience he was working just three blocks from the World Trade Center the day of the attacks. Shortslef is no stranger to the stage; raised by parents who were county and western entertainers, he also toured the eastern United States with his brother, performing in church concerts.

Ashton Lalyn of Tarboro, an aspiring entertainer, was awarded the third prize of $75. A singer since she was 13 years old, Lalyn performed the country ballads “Jackson” and “Anyway.” She frequently performed at fairs and festivals throughout eastern North Carolina.

Also performing during the final round were Gene Hudson of Chocowinity; Nikki Foreman of Belhaven; Danny Harris of Grimesland; Brian Williamson of Belvoir; Charles Wiggins of Vanceboro; Tarrah Walston of Beulaville; and Macon Williams, Linda Woolard and Kim Rogers, all of Washington.

The contest featured a blend of country, pop and gospel music. According to audience members and Tar Heel Variety Theater owner Angie Lewis, the judges had their work cut out for them.

“All the performers were great,” Lewis said. “I’m glad I wasn’t a judge. They all were winners.”

*For more information about the Billy “Crash” Craddock concert, or to purchase tickets, call 252-975-2117 or visit www.tarheelvarietytheater.com.