The Negros Occidental Beach Volleyball Club made strides in its initial foray in the Beach Volleyball Republic in Santa Ana, Cagayan.
Delimondo’s Bianca Lizares and MJ Ebro made it to the second-leg quarterfinals, as the hard-fighting Negrense duo pushed Creamline 2’s Dzi Gervacio and Dij Rodriguez to a deciding third set before falling short of pulling off a major reversal.
The men’s team of Eljhay Ronquillo and Deanne Neil de Pedro, on the other hand, was able to finish in the top four in the second leg.
The two-leg bubble was truly a memorable one for Lizares, who paired for the first time with Ebro in the successful BVR on Tour restart.
“A few days have gone since Beach Volleyball Republic concluded its momentous comeback after an almost two-year hiatus. Taking part in such event was not only challenging, but also extremely humbling,” Lizares posted on her social media accounts.
“I feel so lucky to have been one of the very few players across the country to have had the chance to experience the BVR Bubble. Not only did I get to see old friends from the Beach Volleyball Community again, it was simply amazing to be back in the sand court and see everyone fight their hearts out,” she added.
It was a blessing for Lizares to play again for the sport that she loves, to represent not only Delimondo but her hometown.
“Obviously, this pandemic has given BVR countless obstacles to try and prevent the bubble from pushing through. But the burning passion and resilience of the people behind this event that ensured everything went right and everyone was safe is amazing to bear witness,” Lizares said.
“The BVR bubble may be over, but the friendships built and the memories made will forever hold a special place in my heart. Here’s to more beach volleyball action,” she added.
Lizares is no stranger in club beach volleyball, having been part of Sta. Lucia and Creamline squads. The Bacolod pride was a second runner-up with Jennifer Cosas in the 2019 Philippine SuperLiga, and a second placer in the BVR on Tour Bantayan Island leg in 2018.
Ebro, who had a stint with the Cignal HD beach volleyball team, became a part of the highly-successful University of Santo Tomas program.
It was a dramatic run for Ronquillo and De Pedro on the men’s side. After falling short of making it to the semifinals in the first leg, Ronquillo and De Pedro placed fourth in the second leg.
It was a gallant stand for Ronquillo, who bucked an injury during the knockout stage to help De Pedro claim a spot in the top four.
The Negros Occidental Beach Volleyball Club was just formed this year. (BVR) – bny
