Bhubaneswar, March 8: For the first time in India, the FIVB World Beach Volleyball Championship (Men’s and Women’s) held at KIIT University concluded on Sunday.
In the final match played today, the United States defeated Japan to become champions in the women’s category, while Belgium defeated the Czech Republic to win the men’s title.
In the women’s category, the United States won the first set 21–18 and the second set 21–16, defeating Japan to secure the championship.
Similarly, in the men’s category, Belgium defeated the Czech Republic 2–0, scoring 21–10 in the first set and 22–20 in the second set to become champions.
Japan finished as runner-up in the women’s category, while the Czech Republic finished as runner-up in the men’s category.
During the closing ceremony, Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati and Union Minister for Labour, Employment, Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Laxmanbhai Mandaviya congratulated the players through messages. They also praised the organizers and participants for successfully conducting this prestigious international event.
Among those present at the event were Odisha Cricket Association President Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, Ollywood actor Debashish Patra, Odisha Rugby Football Association Secretary Upendra Mohanty, KIIT and KISS Founder Achyuta Samanta, KIIT University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Saranjit Singh, Registrar Prof. Gyanaranjan Mohanty, and KIIT–KISS Director General of Sports Dr. Gaganendu Das. They presented trophies and medals to the champion and runner-up teams.
The championship, held at KIIT’s Dutee Chand Stadium, saw participation from 82 teams representing 52 countries. A total of 306 players and officials, including Olympic gold medalists, took part in the event.
