Saxton/Schalk stake a claim for glory in Canada derby

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Saxton/Schalk stormed to an early victory over their countrymen on Thursday. Photocredit: Mike Ranz.

There was one match in particular that caught our eye on the opening morning of the men’s main draw: the Canadian derby between Saxton/Schalk and Binstock/Schachter.

With both teams heading to Rio next week and with last week’s announcement that the Swatch Beach Volleyball FIVB World Tour Finals are heading for Toronto we thought it only right to get on our bikes and head to court four this morning.

And it was certainly worth our while. The two teams played some breathtaking beach volleyball but ultimately it was Ben Saxton and Chaim Schalk who registered a brilliant win in straight sets – their first in three attempts against their fellow countrymen.

“Yeah they always seem to play really well against us so it’s nice to win one!” joked Ben to us afterwards. “It’s nice when you play teams from your own country and beat them.”

The number three seeds are keen on securing another medal after finishing with bronze at the Poreč Major earlier this month.

But with Rio on the horizon and with four teams from Canada heading to Brazil, it’s a good time for beach volleyball for the Canadians.

“It’s the perfect time to play in Canada,” said Chaim. “Everyone in Canada will be watching us at the Olympics so they will know who we are then they can come and watch us in person. It should be a great crowd.”

“It’s exciting to have the success in our country and to be able to take that home and share it with so many fans, family and friends,” added Ben. “There’s a lot of people who have waited a long time to see us play so it will be very special for us.”

They can’t wait for September and neither can we! Thanks guys!