WVBF Protour 2009 presented by Cornèrcard in Cochabamba (Bolivia)

Bolivia hosted with great success the world Beach Volleyball
(Lausanne 24.4.09) After the success of the African stages, the 2009 Beach Volleyball world
championship Protour of the World Volleyball and Beach volleyball Federation (WVBF in the
text), the only world Volleyball and Beach Volleyball institution who respects and fully
implements the International Olympic Committee (IOC) fundamentals: democratic elections
by secret ballots, finance transparency and development, joined South America for a step in
Cochabamba (Bolivia). It is within the dynamic Olympic Club, led by WVBF’s board member
Bernardo Pavisic, that the male and female teams from around the world were able to
compete for a three day struggle. The show was very impressive, a large crowd joined the
beautiful arena on Sunday for the tournaments’ finals.
The Brazilian pair composed of Marly de Souza and Devora Paula took over the formidable
U.S. Pat Keller and Liz Pagano, former winner of several 2008 Protour legs, in a majestic
woman final. Third place was won by the Bolivian Francesca Canedo and Mara Ortiz against
Claudia Pavisic and Johana Balderrama.
Brazilian pair Jairo and Fabio made a true exploit with their victory in the men’s final against
the Protour "legend" pair composed of Said Souikane and Gregor Lah. The quality of play
offered by these four champions was brilliant according to audience’s joy. The Bolivians Luis
Garcia and Rolando Ismael finished third with their victory in three sets against Sergio Hazou
and Rodrigo Perez.
WVBF joined local authorities, press, supporters and athletes to applaud the brilliant
organization of this event. Everybody is looking forward for the 2010 edition.