Canada’s Melissa Humana-Paredes and Brandie Wilkerson secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the Montreal Elite beach volleyball pro tour event on Friday, defeating Brazil’s Thamela Coradello and Victoria Lopes with scores of 21-13 and 21-18. The Toronto-based Olympic silver medallists now lead Pool A with a perfect 3-0 record.
Wilkerson emphasized the importance of clear pre-game strategies, effective communication, and adaptability during the match. She highlighted their trust in defense and side out plays, emphasizing the need to persevere and battle throughout the tournament.
On the other hand, Lea Monkhouse from Mississauga, Ont., and Marie-Alex Belanger from Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez, Que., faced setbacks as they dropped both their matches, landing them at a 0-3 standing in the event.
In the men’s category, Sam Schachter from Richmond Hill, Ont., and Jonny Pickett from Wiarton, Ont., suffered a 21-13, 23-21 defeat against Brazil’s Andre Loyola Stein and Renato Lima. Despite the loss, the Canadian duo managed to secure a spot in the playoffs with a 1-2 record.
Meanwhile, Steve Abrams from Georgetown, Ont., and Cameron Chadwick from Barrie, Ont., struggled as they fell to Americans Taylor Crabb and Andy Benesh with a close score of 21-23, 21-18, and 15-12, leaving them at an 0-3 standing.
The competition will continue at Parc Jean-Drapeau until Sunday, offering exciting matches and intense battles on the sand.
