Last year, Chetumal hosted a women-only 3-star event, this year the tournament has been upgraded to a double-gender 4-star that takes place in the Mexican coastal city between November 13-18. The event is another important milestone in the Olympic qualification process towards Tokyo 2020. Main draw starts November 14 with quarter- and semifinals being played on November 16 leading to the medal matches on November 17.
Defending champions are Canadians Heather Bansley and beach volleyball gypsy Brandie Wilkerson who had a great appearance in last season’s edition. In their quest to defend their title, the Canadians will face several American teams such as 2018 Chetumal bronze medalists Kerri Walsh Jennings/ Brooke Sweat as well as Betsi Flint/Emily Day and Kelly Claes/ Sarah Sponcil.
Top-seeds on the men’s side are Olympic bronze medalists Alexander Brouwer and Robert Meeuwsen (Netherlands), Polish top team Fijalek/Bryl and AVP Hawaii champions Jake Gibb and Taylor Crabb. Taylor Crabb’s brother Trevor will compete with his partner Tri Bourne, a team that reached this year’s Hamburg world championships semifinals. Further US teams participatig are Billy Allen/ Stafford Slick and beach volleyball veteran John Hyden teaming up with Bill Kolinske in the qualifiers.
You can find schedule and results on the official FIVB Chetumal event page.
