The Azerbaijan National Beach Volleyball Championship, meticulously organized by the Azerbaijan Volleyball Federation (AVF), recently concluded with a flourish. Held earlier this week at the prestigious Baku Aquatics Palace, the final matches captivated spectators, showcasing the exceptional skill and resolute determination of all participating clubs. Ultimately, the Azerrail-1 teams distinguished themselves, securing resounding victories in both the women’s and men’s categories.
A final group picture captured at the end of the event held in Baku.
In a riveting women’s final, the Azerrail-1 duo of Larisa Smeltsova and Chinara Guliyeva faced their clubmates, Azerrail-2, comprising Vera Klimovich and Ilhama Azimova. This internal club contest fostered a unique atmosphere of camaraderie intertwined with friendly yet fierce rivalry. Concurrently, the decisive men’s match saw Azerrail-1, with Konstantin Semenov and Heydar Mammadli, pitted against Khilasedichi-2. Despite the palpable tension, the spirit of sportsmanship prevailed throughout, culminating in Azerrail-1 being crowned champions and receiving gold medals in recognition of their diligent effort and commitment.
Following the conclusion of the matches, a celebratory awarding and closing ceremony was held to honor all participants. The triumphant winners and commendable runners-up were presented with diplomas, medals, and thoughtful gifts from the VMF watch factory, a valued collaborator of the Azerbaijan Volleyball Federation. The esteemed presence of AVF President Shahin Baghirov, Secretary General Faig Orujov, Board Member Elgar Bagirov, Honoured Master of Sports and European Championship winner in rhythmic gymnastics Aliya Pashayeva, and VMF Watch Factory Director Orkhan Mammadov underscored the profound importance of acknowledging the athletes` dedication and stellar accomplishments.
The women`s final was an all-Azerrail affair.
The winning teams have now earned the prestigious opportunity to represent Azerbaijan in the forthcoming CEV Beach Volley European Cup 2025. This achievement builds upon their strong performance last year, where both the men’s and women’s Azerrail teams proudly emerged victorious at the event held in Montpellier, France, bringing considerable distinction to the Caucasus nation.
This year’s championship commenced on July 21 and saw the participation of 12 women’s teams and 11 men’s teams. The tournament adhered strictly to the regulations set forth by the European Volleyball Confederation, thereby ensuring fair play and maintaining the integrity of the competition throughout. A key requirement was for each club to enter at least two teams, composed of athletes aged 18 or older. The stakes were considerably high, as the competition featured a double-elimination format where a team was removed after incurring two losses. The successful culmination of the event clearly highlighted the collective contributions of every player, coach, and supporter, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved.
The men`s final produced another victory for Azerrail.
Medallists
Women
- 1. Azerrail-1 (Larisa Smeltsova/Chinara Guliyeva)
- 2. Azerrail-2 (Vera Klimovich/Ilhama Azimova)
- 3. Milli Aviasiya Akademiyasi-1 (Nazrin Karimli/Amina Ramazanova/Albina Chinayeva)
Men
- 1. Azerrail-1 (Konstantin Semenov/Heydar Mammadli)
- 2. Khilasedichi-2 (Andrey Melnikov/Hasan Hüseyin Mermer/Asif Aliyev)
- 3. Azerrail-2 (Ibrahim Mammadov/Muhammad Aslanli)
Participating Teams
Women
- Azerrail-1, Azerrail-2, Azerrail-3
- Khari Byul-Byul-1, Khari Byul-Byul-2
- Ganja-1, Ganja-2
- Milli Aviasiya Akademiyasi-1, Milli Aviasiya Akademiyasi-2
- Milli-1, Milli-2, Milli-3
Men
- Azerrail-1, Azerrail-2, Azerrail-3
- Murov Az Terminal-1, Murov Az Terminal-2, Murov Az Terminal-3, Murov Az Terminal-4
- Khari Byul-Byul-1, Khari Byul-Byul-2
- Khilasedichi-1, Khilasedichi-2
Jasper Thornfield 
Finley Blackwood