Vanuatu Beach Volleyball 4X4 women’s team upset Canada 2-0 in their opening game of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) World Beach Games in Doha, Qatar last Saturday.
Vanuatu proved themselves too strong in the opening set winning 21-18, the women maintained composure and lifted intensity in the second set as they upset the world favourite Canada 21-19 in the second set.
The Canadians only had themselves to blame with unforced errors which cost them the game.
Canada beach volleyball women pair of Melissa Humana and Sarah Pavan is number one on the FIVB Beach Volleyball ranking with 6080 points.
Opening Ceremony
Meanwhile the opening ceremony of the first ANOC World Beach Games on Saturday was a classic.
The surprise entry of a traditional Arab dhow to welcome the athletes of world set the seal on a captivating yet distinct opening games.
As a prelude to the formal declaration, children carried in illuminated globes representing the five continental Olympic Associations in an original representation of the emblem of ANOC.
The introduction of these games coincide with the 40th anniversary of ANOC.
It was in 1979 that the organisation was formally constituted in San Juan.
“Together we are making history helping National Olympic Committees connect with new sports and new stars and new generations,” ’said Acting ANOC President Robin Mitchell.
He referred to Doha’s race against time to get ready after original hosts San Diego pulled out earlier this year.
“We are very grateful for your support and dedication,” he told the Doha 2019 Organising Committee and paid tribute to “hard work in just three short months to provide an excellent environment.
“ANOC developed a vision of a global sport event at captivating beach locations and as the action unfolds over the next few days, I am confident you will see the dream realised.”
Instead of a lengthy march past of athletes, most of those competing took their places in the marble rows of seats which had each been furnished with cushions in maroon, the national colour of Qatar.
SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST