The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open up sent a Unique style of magic, blending earth-course athleticism with the down-to-earth spirit that defines the beach volleyball Neighborhood. Held September 4–seven near the Hermosa Beach Pier, this calendar year’s Match wasn’t just a quit within the competitive circuit—it absolutely was a celebration of the Activity’s origins, that includes Olympians competing shoulder to shoulder with climbing stars and local heroes in a fan-welcoming, no-frills ecosystem.
The party had no stadium seating or flashy fan zones. As an alternative, spectators gathered within the courts, standing from the sand and sitting on Seashore towels as they cheered on elite athletes from just ft absent. Arranged with grassroots support and backed by sponsors like Wedbush Securities, the Match returned to a purer Edition of the sport, exactly where Local community, Levels of competition, and connection have been the main focus.
Over the Females’s aspect, Olympians Kelly Cheng and Sara Hughes reminded everyone why they’re deemed Among the many finest in the world. Within a remarkable all-USC last, Cheng and Hughes dropped the 1st set to Terese Cannon and Megan Kraft in advance of roaring back again to get the following two. The deciding established came down to the wire, with Cheng and Hughes edging out a twenty–18 get inside a thrilling complete. The victory marked a triumphant second in their post-Olympic marketing campaign and underscored their dominance heading into the following AVP and international occasions.
The men’s remaining highlighted An additional Olympic-caliber clash. Previous NBA ahead turned Seaside volleyball standout Chase Budinger teamed up with Olympic veteran Miles Evans to face off from Miles Partain and Alex Ranghieri. Budinger and Evans proved as well impressive, winning in straight sets, 21–14 and 21–seventeen. Budinger’s physicality at The online and Evans’ sharp instincts manufactured them the unstoppable duo from the weekend.
Across four times of Participate in, 130 teams competed in a very double-elimination structure that kept supporters on their toes and athletes grinding by way of extensive, Solar-soaked times. The Event also integrated a juniors division, which brought in many youthful players desirous to study, contend, and share the sand With all the pros. It was a rare opportunity for youth athletes to generally be Component of A significant volleyball event and also a worthwhile recruiting moment for faculty packages in attendance.
A full Sodo66 Image gallery captured the essence of your Match—from higher-traveling spikes and gritty digs to quiet moments of aim and laughter amongst teammates. These illustrations or photos, widely shared on the internet, aided showcase the natural beauty and intimacy with the sport in its most genuine location.
With its accomplishment, the Hermosa Beach Open has sparked dialogue about its potential. Town leaders are Discovering a design comparable to Manhattan Seaside, where by the municipality could get a bigger role in internet hosting the Match annually. There’s also a bigger purpose in sight: Hermosa is actively positioning alone to be a selected training web site for that 2028 L. a. Olympics.
The 2024 Hermosa Beach front Open up was additional than simply a Event. It absolutely was a press release—evidence that even in an era of massive contracts and global broadcasts, beach volleyball’s coronary heart even now beats strongest from the sand, surrounded by Neighborhood.