Hermosa Beach Open Recap: Olympians Seize Titles in Return to Roots
Hermosa Beach Open Recap: Olympians Seize Titles in Return to Roots
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The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open shipped a Exclusive type of magic, Mixing world-course athleticism With all the down-to-earth spirit that defines the Seashore volleyball Group. Held September four–seven close to the Hermosa Beach Pier, this yr’s Match wasn’t simply a stop over the competitive circuit—it was a celebration on the Activity’s origins, showcasing Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with rising stars and local heroes within a supporter-welcoming, no-frills atmosphere.
The function had no stadium seating or flashy supporter zones. In its place, spectators gathered around the courts, standing inside the sand and sitting on Seaside towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just feet away. Organized with grassroots assistance and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the tournament returned to some purer version of the game, where community, Opposition, and connection had been the focus.
On the women’s facet, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded Anyone why they’re thought of Amongst the finest on the globe. In a very spectacular all-USC ultimate, Cheng and Hughes dropped the very first established to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft right before roaring back again to get the next two. The selecting set arrived right down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a 20–eighteen get inside a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant second in their article-Olympic campaign and underscored their dominance heading into another AVP and Global occasions.
The Adult males’s ultimate featured A different Olympic-caliber clash. Former NBA ahead turned beach volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to deal with off towards Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved much too strong, profitable in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at the net and Evans’ sharp instincts manufactured them the unstoppable duo of the weekend.
Across 4 days of Engage in, a hundred thirty teams competed in the double-elimination structure that stored admirers on their toes and athletes grinding Sodo66 by way of extensive, Sunlight-soaked days. The Event also included a juniors division, which brought in many youthful players desirous to study, contend, and share the sand Using the professionals. It had been a scarce opportunity for youth athletes for being Component of An important volleyball event as well as a worthwhile recruiting minute for faculty courses in attendance.
A full photo gallery captured the essence from the tournament—from large-flying spikes and gritty digs to peaceful moments of target and laughter amid teammates. These photographs, commonly shared on the net, served showcase the natural beauty and intimacy of your Activity in its most genuine placing.
With its accomplishment, the Hermosa Seaside Open has sparked conversation about its future. Town leaders are Checking out a design much like Manhattan Beach, where the municipality could take a bigger position in internet hosting the tournament annually. There’s also An even bigger purpose in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning itself to be a specified education web site for the 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Seashore Open was extra than just a tournament. It absolutely was an announcement—evidence that even in an period of huge contracts and international broadcasts, Beach front volleyball’s heart nonetheless beats strongest during the sand, surrounded by Local community.