Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – The energy was at its peak this weekend as Punta Cana concluded the 9th edition of the NORCECA Beach Volleyball Classic, played on the stunning sands of Los Corales Beach. Teams from the United States and Puerto Rico stood at the top of the podium, solidifying their dominance in an event that attracted some of the best duos in the region.
Men’s Division: USA Outlasts Cuba in a Thrilling Final
In the men’s category, American duo James Drost and Troy Field earned the gold medal after a dramatic three-set battle against Cuba’s Damián Gómez and Eblis Veranes. The final score (21-19, 17-21, 15-10) reflected the intensity of a match that kept spectators on edge until the very last rally.
The bronze medal went to Mexico’s Carlos Ayala and Antonio Lares, who displayed solid teamwork to defeat Nicaragua’s Rubén Mora and Dany López in straight sets (21-16, 21-18).
Women’s Division: Puerto Rico Secures Its Sixth Title of the Season
On the women’s side, Puerto Rico celebrated another triumph as Allanis Navas and María González captured their sixth title of the year on the international beach volleyball circuit. They overcame the American team of Geena Urango and Mariah Whalen in three sets (19-21, 21-17, 15-10), proving once again why they are considered one of the most consistent pairs in NORCECA competitions.
The bronze medal match saw Canada’s Alison McKay and Darby Dunn dominate with a convincing 2-0 performance (21-12, 21-10), securing a place on the podium.
Punta Cana: A Sports Tourism Hotspot
“This tournament is proof that Punta Cana has become a key destination for sports tourism,” said Amós Anglada, event organizer and Vice President of the Dominican Volleyball Federation (Fedovoli). “We’ve enjoyed two weekends of world-class beach volleyball, and our beaches are the perfect stage for NORCECA events.”
The success of the Punta Cana NORCECA Beach Volleyball Classic not only highlights the talent of regional athletes but also reinforces the Dominican Republic’s position as a premier hub for international sporting events