Beach Volleyball

Horse Guards Parade

During the London 2012 Olympic Games, the Beach Volleyball competition will take place on the Prime Minister’s doorstep at Horse Guards Parade. Horse Guards Parade lies at the heart of Whitehall, the political centre of the UK. It is close to Downing Street and across St James’s Park from Buckingham Palace. Beach Volleyball came of age on the sun-soaked beaches of Santa Monica, California, during the 1920s. The event now regarded as the first Beach Volleyball World Championships was held in the state in 1976, and was even won by a pair of Californians (Greg Lee and Jim Menges). However, over the last three decades, the sport has moved far beyond its West Coast roots and is now played all over the world.

About Horse Guards Parade

Horse Guards Parade dates from 1745 and takes its name from the soldiers who have provided protection for the monarch since the restoration of the monarchy in 1660.

The parade ground lies at the heart of London’s ceremonial life, and hosts the Trooping of the Colour event that takes place on the Queen’s official birthday each year.
During the Games

A temporary arena will be built in 2012, with sand brought in to create London’s very own 'beach’.