Hundreds of people witnessed a spectacular beach volleyball tournament at Portobello beach at the weekend, most were passers by who stopped to watch and admire the action taking place on 9 match courts next to the Promenade. With 100 players competing in the event it was a fantastic tournament which was bathed in sunshine all weekend.
The women’s elite event was concluded on Saturday due to lower than expected entries with Eilidh Smith and Mel Coutts taking the honours with a 2-set defeat of Shelly Paterson and Claire Penny. The men’s event, contested by 20 teams, attracted one of the top teams in England, Tom Lord and Phil Smith, who duly took the spoils defeating Colin Paterson and Seain Cook in a convincing final. However, Paterson and Cook had already caused one upset, defeating number 1 seeds Barry McGuigan and Graham Riddle in 2 sets in the semi finals. Men’s Division 2 was won by Ruijin Ho and Bob Reid.
It was great to see a good turn out for the recreational 4s who seemed to enjoy every minute of the event, and on the Sunday it was the turn of the juniors who also had a good time, and played some good volleyball too.
Thanks to all the volunteers from City of Edinburgh Volleyball Club who made this event happen. Thanks to the SVA Beach Commission, Portobello Swim Centre, sponsorship from the City of Edinburgh Council Activcity programme and Red Bull who made this event special.
Most of all thanks to all the players who tackled the day with such enthusiasm and professionalism. I hope to see you all again next year.
Mel Coutts
Portobello Beach Volleyball Tournament Organiser
