This is a current awareness blog that links to the latest sources of information on Basque Pelota matches and Tournaments. It covers all of both North and South Basque modalities: Pro and amateur. It links to match stories, statistics and video highlights and/or full match videos. NEW!!! JAI ALAI LEAGUE (EREMAN!) SEASON INTRO AND JAI ALAI WOMEN'S WINTER TOUR 2024 (2/22/24)!!!

Monday, December 7, 2020

Jai Alai/Cesta Punta-Jai Alive 2020 Pro Tour--Hegoalde--South Basque--Hondarribia Grand Slam; Markina Masters; Mutriku Masters, and Donostia (San Sebastian) Grand Slam

Jai Alive 2020 Pro Tour (Jai Alive's Facebook page--they do not appear to have a current web site at this time. They are a sports organization that organizes festivals. The Tour consisted of  2 Master Tournaments and 2 Grand Slam (League) Tournaments:

Donostia (San Sebastian) Grand Slam (November 24, 27, December 4, 2020)
Hondarribia Grand Slam (September 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16, 2020)
Mutriku Masters (July 31, August 7, 2020)
Markina-Xemein Masters Tournament (July 10, 16, 19, 2020)

They are all covered below, in reverse order.
 
NOTE: I AM PROVIDING LOOSE GOOGLE ENGLISH TRANSLATIONS FOR THE JAI ALAI NEWS FACEBOOK MATCH AND FEATURE ARTICLES BECAUSE THEY ARE THE HIGHEST QUALITY ARTICLES I HAVE FOUND. ALSO BECAUSE SOME OF YOU MAY NOT BE "ON" FACEBOOK. FOR THE OTHER ARTICLES, THE ARTICLE LANGUAGE IS LISTED. THE EASIEST WAY TO TRANSLATE IS TO SIMPLY CUT AND PASTE THE ARTICLE INTO THE LEFT WINDOW AT TRANSLATE.GOOGLE.COM   (WHICH YOU HAVE AREADY OPENED IN ANOTHER WINDOW). THEN LEAVE THE DEFAULT SETTING ("DETECT LANGUAGE") ALONE. IT WILL FIND THE LANGUAGE. SET THE RIGHT WINDOW TO "ENGLISH" (OR ANY OTHER LANGUAGE). YOU CAN ALSO SET AN AUTOMATIC TRANSLATE IN YOUR BROWSER SETTINGS. EACH BROWSER IS DIFFERENT, BUT THE PROCESS IS MUCH THE SAME, AND PRETTY EASY. 

++++++

Tournament 4: Donostia Grand Slam (November 24, 27, December 4, 2020)

The teams

Six pairs will play in this Tournament. They are split into two groups.

Group A. 

Diego Beaskoetxea-Julen Del Rio (interview--Castilian)
Antxon Alberdi (interview--Castilian)-Aimar Aldazabal 
Joseba Zuloaga (interview regarding his time as a Professional in the Philippines--Castilian)-Jon Zabala

Group B

Alex Hormaetxea-Mikel Mancisidor (interview--Castilian)
Aaron Gonzalez (interveiw--Castilian)-Arkaitz Izaguirre 

The Tournament began with two Quarter-Finals, Antxon-A. Aldazabal v Zuloaga-Zabala and Arbe-Urtasun v Gonzalez-Izaguirre. 

The winners of those matches then played in the semi-finals against the seeded in Beaskoetxea-Del Rio and Hormaetxea-Mancisidor respectively. The semi-final winners played for the championship on December 7. 

Carmelo Balda, Donostia (San Sebastian) (1--Frontons.net) (2--Wikipedia)

December 4

FINAL

Beaskoetxea-Del Rio 2
Hormaetxea-Mancisidor 0
(15-9, 15-12) (30-21)

Opening Match

Zuloaga-Izaguirre 2
Aaron-Mandiola 0
(15-9, 15-9) (30-18)

FULL MATCH VIDEO FOR BOTH MATCHES (EITB) (Final begins at 47:57 on the video

If the direct address doesn't work:

http://eitb.tv/es
Programas A-Z
WXYZ
Scroll to "Zesta Punta"
Note: if you find the match this way look for the words "Beaskoetxea/Del Rio", as EITB has mixed in a couple of Mano (handball) matches with the Jai Alai, a mistake on their part that might be confusing.

EITB provided no statistics for these matches.

Match article for both matches (Jai Alive Facebook--See Google Translate English Translation below)

---

November 27

Semi-Finals

1st Semi-final

Beaskoetxea-Del Rio 2  
Zuloaga-Zabala 0
(15-7, 15-8) (30-15)

2nd Semi-final

Hormaetxea-Mancisidor 2 
Arbe-Urtasun 1
(5-15, 15-14, 5-4) (25-33)


If the direct address doesn't work:

http://eitb.tv/es
Programas A-Z
WXYZ
Scroll to "Zesta Punta"
Note: if you find the match this way look for the words "Beaskoetxea/Del Rio", as EITB has mixed in a couple of Mano (handball) matches with the Jai Alai, a mistake on their part that might be confusing.

EITB provided no statistics for these matches.

Match article for both matches (Jai Alive Facebook--See Google Translate English Translation below)

---

November 24

2nd Quarter-final

Arbe-Urtasun 2
Aaron-Izaguirre 0
(15-7, 15-7) (30-14)

Video of  1st Set (from 11-7 to end) (Jai Alive Facebook)

1st Quarter-final

Zuloaga-Zabala 2 (Blue)
Antxon-A. Aldazabal (Red) 1
(15-10, 6-15, 5-4) (27-29)

Video of 1st set (from 10-6 to end) (Jai Alive Facebook)

Video of 2nd set (from 6-11 to end) (Jai Alive Facebook)

Video of Tie Breaker (Jai Alive Facebook)

Linescore available for Tie Breaker only.(match winners always listed first)

0-1; 1-1; 1-3; 3-3; 3-4; 5-4
3 equal scores, 1 lead change

Scoring (mine, yours may be different)

Zuloaga +0 -0 Zabala +0 -2
Antxon  +1 -3 A. Aldazabal +1 -2

Total scoring +2 -7 (.222)

Balls in Play: 52

Total non-error % (BIP-errors/BIP): .865

Balls per Point: 5.8

Match article for both matches (Jai Alive Facebook--See Google Translate English Translation below)

---

Jai Alive 2020 Partidos Standings, current as of the end of the Donostia Grand Slam (November 24, 27, December 7)

Key: Player, Match Wins-Losses; Set Wins-Losses; (Tie Breaker counts for 1/3 of a decision) (For single paridos Points Won-Lost); Tournaments Won

Tournaments Won (M=Markina) (Mu=Mutriku) (H=Hondarribia) (D=Donostia)

Note: I consider the first match of the Donostia Grand Slam Final (Zuloaga-Aguirre v Aaron-Mandiola) to be an exhibition (or "friendly") match. It is not counted in the table below.

Top Tier

Fronts (Delaneros) (Aurrelariak) (Avants)

Goikoetxea...........6-1...9.9--5.....2(Mu,H)
(Diego) Beaskoetxea  6-2..10.9--6.3...2(M,D)
Olharan..............2-1...4.3--2.3
Arbe.................1-1...3--1.3
Goixerri II..........1-1...3--1.3
Zuloaga..............1-1...1.3--3
Olha.................1-2...3--3.3
Hormaetxea...........2-3...3.3--7
(Antxon) Alberdi.....0-1...1--1.3
(Aritz) Erkiaga......0-1...1--1.3
Goenaga..............0-1...0--2
Aaron (Gonzalez).....0-2...0--4
Barandika............0-3...2--4.6

Backs (Zagueros) (Atzelariak) (Arrieres)

Irastorza............4-0...7.3--1......1(H)
Del Rio..............2-0...4--0........1(D)
Lekerika (Leke)......3-1...9.9--7.6....1(M)
Lopez................3-3...2--2
Mancisidor...........3-3...4.9--8.6....1(Mu)
Etxeto...............2-3...5.3--5.3
Del Rio..............1-2...3--3.3
(Manex)Urtasun.......1-1...3--1.3
Zabala...............1-1...1.3--3
(Ibon) Aldazabal.....0-1...1--1.3
Izaguirre............0-1...0--2
(Aimar) Aldazabal....0-2...1--3.3
Minvielle............0-2...0--4

2nd Tier

Fronts (Delanteros) (Aurrelairak) (Avants)

Antxon...............2-0...60-42....1(M)
Bastera..............1-0...25-19
Barandika............1-1...51-52
Arbe.................1-1...21-30 (1.3--1)
Benetrix.............0-1...19-25
Goixerri II..........0-1...22-30
Goenaga..............0-1...(1--1.3)

Backs (Zagueros)(Atzelariak) (Arrieres)

Zabala...............2-0...60-42....1(M)
A. Mendizabal........1-0..(1.3--1)
Del Rio..............1-0...25-19
Ibarluzea............1-1...51-52
Mandiola.............0-2...21-30 (1--1.3)
Mancisidor...........0-2...41-55

---

Final Match Article for both matches (Translated into English by Google)

Beaskoetxea and Del Río champions
They beat 15-9 and 15-12.

Beaskoetxea and Del Río showed superiority during the first set and safely sentenced the first 15 points.

The second most even set where after the tie at 12 Hormaetxea and Manci were about to turn the game around, but again the red pair closed the set 15-12 thus taking the triumph of this Grand Slam in Donostiarras lands.

Victory for Zuloaga and Izagirre against Aaron and Mandiola in the preliminary match. 15-9 and 15-9.

---

Semi Final Match Article for both matches (Translated into English by Google)

** Grand final for next Friday, December 4: 
Beaskoetxea-Del Río vs Hormaetxea-Mancisidor **

Diego Beaskoetxea and Julen Del Río beat Zuloaga and Zabala 15-7 and 15-8. They were far superior, with Diego Beaskoetxea marking the difference up front and Julen Del Río with his iron right behind.

The second semifinal was very exciting, it went to 3 sets with a very even second set since both 7. 5-15, 15-14 and 5-4.
The head to cross of 5 points went to Hormaetxea and Manci, a very fought set in 4 equals.

---

Quarter-final match aticle for both matches (translated to English by Google)

Zuloaga-Zabala surprise Antxon-Aldazabal 15-10 6-15 5-4 They will play the semifinal against Beaskoetxea-Del Río

A very intense, high-quality match where the end was a heads or tails and either of the two couples could win.

Arbe-Urtasun fulfilled the predictions and beat Aaron Izaguirre 15-7 15-7

Very solid couple that are by far the favorite to win the tournament

Next Friday the semifinals of the Donostia Grand Slam will be played:
Zuloaga-Zabala vs Beaskoetxea-Del Rio
Arbe-Urtasun vs Hormatxea-Mancisidor

==============================

Tournament 3: (
Google English Translations of Jai Alai News Facebook articles are provided below the Player Standings after the 3nd Tournament)

Hondarribia Grand Slam (September 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16, 2020)

This Tournament was contested between 6 pairs split into 2 groups. The first part of the Tournament was a "league" competition, a single Round Robin in each group. The top two finishers in each group moved on to a the Semi-finals and the Semi-final winners played in the Final. 

The teams

Group A

Xabier Barandika--Mikel Mancisidor (1--See 1 Maila--Atzelariak [back] ) (2--Xistera interview--Castilian, French, or Basque). See also Mutriku Final below where he won the Championship with Goikoetxea.

Group B 


==========
==========

Final Hondarribia Scoring

Key: Player, Number of games that were scored, Raw Scoring, Average Scoring

Fronts (Delaneros) (Aurrelariak) (Avants)

Olharan*....2...+32  -6....+16     -3
Goikoetxea..3...+39 -15....+11     -5
Beaskoetxea.4...+34 -18.....+8.5   -4.5
Hormaetxea..1...+13  -9....+13     -9
Olha........2...+16 -14.....+8     -7
Barandika...1....+8  -7.....+8     -7
Aaron.......1....+9  -9.....+9     -9

Backs

Backs (Zagueros) (Atzelariak) (Arrieres)

Irastorza..3...+22  -14.....+7.3   -4.7
Lopez......4...+20  -18.....+5     -4.5
Minvielle..2....+9   -9.....+4.5   -4.5
Del Rio....2... +8   -9.....+4     -4.6
Etcheto*...2....+7  .-9.....+3.5   -4.5
Mancisidor.1....+5  -11.....+5    -11 

*=Perfect Game 

Olharan Week 2 +15 -0; Etcheto Week 2 +3 -0
Olharan and Etcheto were partners. The team played a perfect game, +18 -0 (see below) 

==========
==========

Jostaldi, Hondarribia (1--frontons.net) (2--Wikipedia)

Tournament Preview Articles

Diario Vasco (Castilian)
Jai Alive Facebook (Castilian) (see below under Final Standings for 3 Tournaments for Google English Translate) for those who cannot or do not wish to access Facebook).
Jai Alai News Facebook (Castilian) (see below under Final Standings for 3 Tournaments for Google English Translate) for those who cannot or do not wish to access Facebook).

================

Schedule and Results: (for available video links, statistics, and match articles on each match, in reverse order, see below this summary)

Note on Set Points: Winner or loser of a tie breaker is credited or debited .3 points for purposes of this blog post. 

September 18

League Round 1

Group A: 

Goikoetxea-Irastorza (1-0; 2--0) 2
Barandika-Mancisdor (0-1; 0--2) 0
(15-10, 15-13) (30-23)

Group B:

Olharan-Etcheto (1-0; 1.3--1) 2  
Olha-Del Rio       (0-1; 1--1.3) 1
(13-15; 15-8; 5-4) (33-27)

September 25

League Round 2

Group A: 

Goikoetxea-Irastorza (2-0; 4--0) 2
Beaskoetxea-Lopez    (0-1; 0--2;) 0
(15-14, 15-4) (30-18)
Goiketxea-Irastorza qualify for Semi-finals

Group B: 

Olharan-Etcheto  (2-0; 3.3--1) 2 
Hormatxea-Minvielle (0-1--0--2) 0
(15-14, 15-4) (30-18)
Olharan-Etcheto qualify for Semi-finals

October 2

League Round 3: 

Group A:  

Beaskoetxea-Lopez      (1-1; 1.3--1) 2 
Barandika-Mancisidor (0-2; 1--1.3) 1
(14-15, 15-6, 5-0) (34-21)
Beaskoetxea-Lopez qualify for the Semi-finals

Group B:   

Olha-Del Rio  (1-1; 2--0) 2
Aaron Gonzalez (substituting for Hormaetxea--back injury
-Minvielle)  (0-2; 0--2) 0
(15-10, 15-12) (30-22)
Olha-Del Rio qualify for the Semi Finals:

FINAL LEAGUE STANDINGS

Group A

Goikoetxea-Irastorza...2-0...  4--0..60-41
Beaskoetxea-Lopez..... 1-1...1.3--3..52-51
Barandika-Mancisidor...0-2...1--3.3--44-64

Group B

Olharan-Etcheto.........2-0...3.3--1...63-45
Olha-Del Rio............1-1...3--1.3...57-55
Hormaeatxea-Minvielle...0-2.....0--4...40-60
(Aaron Gonzalez)

+++

October 9:

Semi-Finals

Beaskoetxea-Lopez (2-1; 1.3--1) 2
Olharan-Etcheto  (2-1; 1--1.3) 1
(12-15, 15-14, 5-2) (32-31)

Goikoetxea-Irastorza (3-0; 2--0) 2
Olha-Del Rio (1-2; 0--2) 0
(15-7, 15-8) (30-15)

October 16:

FINAL

"Curtain Raiser" (25 point partido)

Julen Bastera-Del Rio 25 
Maxime Benetrix-Mancisidor 19

Goikoetxea-Irastorza (4-0; 1.3--1) 2
Beaskoetxea-Lopez  (2-2; 1-1.3) 1
(14-15, 15-8, 5-3)  (34-26)

===============
===============

MATCH BY MATCH--READ FROM THE BOTTOM UP TO FOLLOW CHRONOLOGICALLY 

FINAL (October 16)

Goikoetxea-Irastorza (4-0; 1.3--1) 2
Beaskoetxea-Lopez  (2-2; 1-1.3) 1
(14-15, 15-8, 5-3)  (34-26)

FULL MATCH VIDEO (EITB FULL MATCH VIDEO: MATCH BEGINS AT 42:57 ON THE VIDEO)

If direct link doesn't work

http://eitb.tv/es
Programas A-Z
WXYZ
Scroll to "Zesta Punta"
Note: if you find the match this way look for the wordS "Goikoetxea/Irastorza", as EITB has mixed in a couple of Mano (handball) matches with the Jai Alai, a mistake on their part that might be confusing.

Condensed Line score (winning team always listed 1st)

Set 1

1-0; 1-2; 3-2; 3-3; 6-3; 6-4; 7-4; 7-6, 8-6; 8-8; 9-8; 9-9; 10-9; 10-10; 11-10; 11-13; 13-13; 13-14; 14-14; 14-15

9 equal scores; 4 lead changes; largest lead: 3 points (twice)

Set 2

2-0; 2-1; 3-1; 3-2; 9-2; 9-3; 10-3; 10-7; 14-7; 14-8; 15-8

0 equal scores, 0 lead changes, largest lead: 7 points (4 times)

Tie breaker

2-0; 2-1; 4-1; 4-3; 5-3

Scoring

Goikoetxea +13 -7
1 service ace
4 two walls
4 moztuak (cortadas) 

Irastorza +10 -8
1 two walls
1 moztuak (cortada)
4 atzean (behind)

Total G-I + %: .605

Beaskoetxea +7 -5 
2 two walls
2 dejada

Lopez +4 -6
3 atzean (behind)

Total B-L +%: .500

Total score: +34 -26 (.567-.433)

Balls in Play: 606
Goikoetxea 137; Irastorza 172; Beaskoetxea 126; Lopez 171

Non-error percentage (of all balls in play): .957

Time of the match: 94:02

Balls per point 10.1
Time per point: 62 seconds  (note: time includes all stoppage time such as set breaks, etc. The average playing time per point would be less than this, but cannot be calculated due to lack of data).

Match articles: 

Match Preview (Diario Vasco) (Castilian)

Jai Alive Facebook (Castilian) (see below under Final Standings for 3 Tournaments for Google English Translate) for those who cannot or do not wish to access Facebook).

MemorialElola Facebook (Castilian) (see below under Final Standings for 3 Tournaments for Google English Translate) for those who cannot or do not wish to access Facebook).

Diario Vasco (Castilian) (ADDED OCTOBER 23, 2020)

Hitza (Basque)

Beleike (Basque)

+++

"Curtain Raiser" (25 point partido)

Julen Bastera-Del Rio 25 
Maxime Benetrix-Mancisidor 19 (FULL MATCH VIDEO BEGINS AT 0:00 of he link above).

Scoring:
 
Bastera +6 -5 Del Rio +4 -2 (.588)
Benetrix +13 -9 Mancisidor +0 -6 (.464)
Soring adds to 45 points, there were 44 points n the match.

Total score +23 -22 (.511.-.489) (based on 45 points scored by EITB)

Balls in Play: 229
Bastera 61; Del Rio 56; Benetrix 69; Mancisidor 43

Non-error percentage: (based on the 45 points listed by EITB, actual should be a bit larger). 90.4%

Time of the match: 39:24

Balls per point: 5.2 (44 points)
Time per point: 53 seconds (note: time includes all stoppage time such as set breaks, etc. The average playing time per point would be less than this, but cannot be calculated due to lack of data). 

+++

Semi-Finals (October 9)

Beaskoetxea-Lopez (2-1; 1.3--1) 2
Olharan-Etcheto  (1-2; 1--1.3) 1
(12-15, 15-14, 5-2) (32-31)

Goikoetxea-Irastorza (3-0; 2--0) 2
Olha-Del Rio (1-2; 0--2) 0
(15-7, 15-8) (30-15)

FULL MATCH VIDEOS OF BOTH MATCHES (EITB, in the order given above)

Beaskoetxea-Lopez v Olharan-Etcheto

Selected linescores (match wining team always listed first)

Set 1

6-7; 8-13; 9-14; 12-15

Set 2

0-2; 6-10; 11-14; 15-14 (an error by Olharan at 11-14 opens the door and then B-L break it down.)

"And the unthinkable happens. Olharan, impeccable throughout the night, fails to run a ball with everything in his favor. He rushes, in his head he is thinking "We have already won." But you do not have to sell the bear skin before hunting it."
MemorialElola Facebook match article.

Set 3

4-0, 4-2, 5-2 (B-L make it 8 consecutive points before O-E salvage a couple.  

Scoring (EITB):

Beaskoetxea +12 -6 Lopez +5 -4 (.773)
Olharan +17 -6 Etcheto +4 -9 (.583)

Total Scoring: +38 -25 (.603-.397)

Balls in play: 596
Beaskoetxea 138; Lopez 160; Olharan 165; Etcheto 133 

Total non-error percentage (for all balls in play): .958

Time of the match: 88:51

Average balls per point: 9.5
Average time per point: 49 seconds (note: time includes all stoppage time such as set breaks, etc. The average playing time per point would be less than this, but cannot be calculated due to lack of data). 

Goikoetxea-Irastorza v Olha-Del Rio

Selected linescores (match winners always listed first)

Set 1

7-1; 13-6; 15-7

Set 2

10-4; 10-7; 11-8; 15-8

Scoring:

Goikoetxea +10 -4 Irastorza +6 -2 (.727)
Olha +7 -9 Del Rio +2 -5 (.391)

Total Scoring: +25 -20 (.556-.444)

Balls in Play: 300
Goikoetxea 76; Irastorza 82; Olha 75; Del Rio 67

Total non-error percentage (for all balls in play) .933

Time of the match: 48:37

Average balls per point: 6.7
Average time per point: 65 seconds (note: time includes all stoppage time such as set breaks, etc. The average playing time per point would be less than this, but cannot be calculated due to lack of data). 

Match articles:

Match previews (Diario Vasco) (Castilian)

Jai Alive Facebook (Castilian)  (see below under Final Standings for 3 Tournaments for Google English Translate) for those who cannot or do not wish to access Facebook).

MemorialElola Facebook (Castilian) (see below under Final Standings for 3 Tournaments for Google English Translate) for those who cannot or do not wish to access Facebook).

+++

October 2 (Round 3 of Round Robin League play)

Group A:  

Beaskoetxea-Lopez    (1-1; 1.3--1) 2 
Barandika-Mancisidor (0-2; 1--1.3) 1
(14-15, 15-6, 5-0) (34-21)
Beaskoetxea-Lopez qualify for the Semi-finals

Group B:   

Olha-Del Rio  (1-1; 2--0) 2
Aaron Gonzalez (substituting for Hormaetxea--back injury
-Minvielle)  (0-2; 0--2) 0
(15-10, 15-12) (30-22)
Olha-Del Rio qualify for the Semi Finals:

FULL MATCH VIDEOS OF BOTH MATCHES (EITB, in the order given above)

Beaskoetxea-Lopez v Barandika-Mancisidor

Selected linescores (match winners always listed first)

Set 1

8-4; 9-10; 14-15

Set 2 

4-4; 15-6

Tie breaker

5-0

Scoring:  

Beaskoetxea +10 -2
3 service aces
1 dejada
2 moztuak (cortadas)
3 atzean (behind)

Lopez +6 -6
2 atzean (behind)

Team: +16 -8 (.667)

Barandika +8 -7
2 dejadas
4 moztuak (cortadas)
1 atzean (behind)

Mancisidor +5 -11
2 atzean (behind)

Team: +13 -18 (.419)

Total Score: +29 -26 (.572-.418)

Balls in play: 437
Beaskoetxea 110; Lopez 115; Barandika 109; Mancisidor 103

Total non-error percentage (for all balls in play): .941

Time of the match: 70:24

Average balls per point: 9.7
Average time per point: 76 seconds (note: time includes all stoppage time such as set breaks, etc. The average playing time per point would be less than this, but cannot be calculated due to lack of data). 

Olha-Del Rio v Aaron-Minvielle

Selected linescores (match winners always listed first)

Set 1

9-10; 15-10

Set 2

5-1; 10-12; 15-12

Scoring:

Olha +9 -5
1 service ace
1 moztuak (cortada)
 
Del Rio +6 -4
2 moztuak (cortadas)
3 atzean (behind)

Team: +15 -9 (.625)

Aaron +9 -9
2 two walls
2 moztuak (cortadas)

Minvielle +4 -6
4 atzean (behind)

Team: +13 -15 (.464)

Total score: +28 -24 (.539-.461)

Balls in play: 309
Olha 97; Del Rio 62; Aaron 74; Minvielle 76

Total non-error percentage (for all balls in play): .922

Time of the match: 56:25

Average balls per point: 5.9
Average time per point: 65 seconds (note: time includes all stoppage time such as set breaks, etc. The average playing time per point would be less than this, but cannot be calculated due to lack of data). 

Match article for both matches

Jai Alive Facebook (Castilian) (see below under Final Standings for 3 Tournaments for Google English Translate) for those who cannot or do not wish to access Facebook).

+++

September 25 (Round 2 of Round Robin League play)

Group A: 

Goikoetxea-Irastorza (2-0; 4--0) 2
Beaskoetxea-Lopez    (0-1; 0--2;) 0
(15-14, 15-4) (30-18)
Goiketxea-Irastorza qualify for Semi-finals

Group B: 

Olharan-Etcheto  (2-0; 4--0) 2 
Hormatxea-Minvielle (0-1--0--2) 0
(15-14, 15-4) (30-18)
Olharan-Etcheto qualify for Semi-finals

FULL MATCH VIDEOS OF BOTH MATCHES (EITB, in the order given above)

Goikoetxea-Irastorza v Beaskoetxea-Lopez

Selected linescore (match winners always listed first)

Set 1

7-7; 8-13; 12-13; 12-14; 15-14

Set 2:

4-0; 15-4

Scoring

Goikoetxea +16 -4 Irastorza +6 -4 (.733)
Beaskoetxea +5 -5 Lopez +5 -2 (.588)
Scores add to 47. There were 48 points in the match.

Total score (47 scored points): +32 -15 (.681-.319) 

Balls in play: 354
Goikoetxea 93; Irastorza 90; Beaskoetxea 69; Lopez 102

Total non-error percentage (for all balls in play, based on the scoring we have):  .958 

Time of the match: 56:29

Average number of balls per point (based on 48 points): 7.4
Average time per point  (based on 48 points): 71 seconds (note: time includes all stoppage time such as set breaks, etc. The average playing time per point would be less than this, but cannot be calculated due to lack of data). 

Olharan-Etcheto v Hormaetxea-Minvielle

Selected linescores (match winners always listed first)

Set 1

11-5; 13-8; 14-14; 15-14

No linescores provided for Set 2

Olharan +15 -0 Etcheto +3 -0 (1.000)
Hormaetxea +13 -9 Minvielle +5 -3 (.600)

Total score: +36 -12 (.750-.250)

Balls in play: 319
Olharan 86; Etxeto 79; Hormaetxea 82; Minvielle 72

Total non-error percentage (for all balls in play): .962

Time of the match: 50:14

Average balls per point: 6.6
Average time per point: 63 seconds (note: time includes all stoppage time such as set breaks, etc. The average playing time per point would be less than this, but cannot be calculated due to lack of data). 

Match articles

Jai Alive Facebook (Castilian) (see below under Final Standings for 3 Tournaments for Google English Translate) for those who cannot or do not wish to access Facebook).

MemorialElola Facebook (Castilian) (see below under Final Standings for 3 Tournaments for Google English Translate) for those who cannot or do not wish to access Facebook).

+++

September 18 

(Round 1 of Round Robin League play)

Group A: 

Goikoetxea-Irastorza (1-0; 2--0) 2
Barandika-Mancisdor (0-1; 0--2) 0
(15-10, 15-13) (30-23)

Selected linescores (match winners always listed 1st)

Set 1

5-5; 6-9; 15-10

Set 2

7-6; 11-6; 14-11; 15-13

Group B:

Olharan-Etcheto (1-0; 1.3--1) 2  
Olha-Del Rio       (0-1; 1--1.3) 1
(13-15; 15-8; 5-4) (33-27)

Selected linescores (match winners always listed first)

Set 1

9-7; 13-15

Set 2

2-3; 6-3; 8-6; 15-8

Tie breaker

1-0; 1-2; 2-2; 2-3; 4-3; 4-4; 5-4
There was no video for this round.

Match articles:

Jai Alive Facebook (Castilian) (see below under Final Standings for 3 Tournaments for Google English Translate) for those who cannot or do not wish to access Facebook).

==============
==============
==============

Jai Alive 2020 Partidos Standings, current as of the end of the Hondarribia Grand Slam (September 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16)

Key: Player, Match Wins-Losses; Set Wins-Losses; (Tie Breaker counts for 1/3 of a decision) (For single paridos Points Won-Lost); Tournaments Won

Tournaments Won (M=Markina) (Mu=Mutriku) (H=Hondarribia)

Top Tier

Fronts (Delaneros) (Aurrelariak) (Avants)

Goikoetxea...........6-1...9.9--5.....2(Mu,H)
(Diego) Beaskoetxea  4-2...6.9--6.3...1(M)
Olharan..............2-1...4.3--2.3
Goixerri II..........1-1...3--1.3
Olha.................1-2...3--3.3
Hormaetxea...........1-2...2--4
(Aritz) Erkiaga......0-1...1--1.3
Goenaga..............0-1...0--2
Aaron (Gonzalez).....0-1...0--2
Barandika............0-3...2--4.6

Backs (Zagueros) (Atzelariak) (Arrieres)

Irastorza............4-0...7.3--1......1(H)
Lekerika (Leke)......3-1...9.9--7.6....1(M)
Lopez................3-3...2--2
Mancisidor...........2-2...3.6--5.6....1(Mu)
Etxeto...............2-3...5.3--5.3
Del Rio..............1-2...3--3.3
(Ibon) Aldazabal.....0-1...1--1.3
(Aimar) Aldazabal....0-1...0--2
Minvielle............0-2...0--4

2nd Tier

Fronts (Delanteros) (Aurrelairak) (Avants)

Antxon...............2-0...60-42....1(M)
Bastera..............1-0...25-19
Barandika............1-1...51-52
Arbe.................1-1...21-30 (1.3--1)
Benetrix.............0-1...19-25
Goixerri II..........0-1...22-30
Goenaga..............0-1...(1--1.3)


Backs (Zagueros)(Atzelariak) (Arrieres)

Zabala...............2-0...60-42....1(M)
A. Mendizabal........1-0..(1.3--1)
Del Rio..............1-0...25-19
Ibarluzea............1-1...51-52
Mandiola.............0-2...21-30 (1--1.3)
Mancisidor...........0-2...41-55

==============
==============
==============

FINAL (October 18) match articles translated into English by Google Translate

Jai Alive Facebook:

Goikoetxea-Irastorza, champions in Hondarribia

Goikoetxea-Irastorza have been proclaimed champions of the ‘Hondarribia Grand Slam’ by defeating Beaskoetxea-López by 2-1 (14-15, 15-8 and 5-3). 280 people, the cap that currently allows the legislation on the issue of coronavirus, have attended the Jostaldi fronton, where they have enjoyed a great show, surely the best match of the nine that have been played the last five Fridays in Hondarribia.

In the first set, the reds started sending and, above all, with a Goikoetxea that by 5-3 had already signed three goals from two walls. Beaskoetxea instead opted for the txoko [corner] to finish two of his goals in the first part of the set. This was matched with Goikoetxea-Irastorza's maximum income of three goals (6-3 and 7-4) and with continuous changes of balls, since they preferred a more lively one and Beaskoetxea-López, a more motela.

After the break at 8-6 came the Blues comeback, albeit slow, because they had to go through draws at 8, 9, 10 and 11 before getting ahead at 11-12 and 11-13. The reds still pressed but the first set went to Beaskoetxea-López by 14-15 and after 42 minutes of extraordinary play, in which the four left details of their quality, already known but just in case ratified.
Either pair could have taken the set.

In the second round Goikoetxea-Irastorza came out to bite and escaped to 9-2, the biggest difference recorded in the match. They were going straight for the third set, but it was not going to be that easy and Beaskoetxea-López pressed, approaching 10-7, although without being able to prevent the colorados from taking the set and forcing the tiebreaker.

In the tiebreaker, with the public delivered, the Reds dominated on the scoreboard, but it was difficult for them to finish off. There were as many as 2-0 of 39 hits and almost three minutes of play. The fight was hard and finally the winners came out who were favorites, although having to sweat it.
First set: 42 minutes. 1-0, 1-2, 3-2, 3-3, 6-3, 6-4, 7-4, 7-6, 8-6, 8-8, 9-8, 9-9, 10- 9, 10-10, 11-10, 11-13, 13-13, 13-14, 14-14 and 14-15

Second set: 32 minutes. 2-0, 2-1, 3-1, 3-2, 9-2, 9-3, 10-3, 10-7, 14-7, 14-8 and 15-8.

Tiebreaker: 16 minutes. 2-0, 2-1, 4-1, 4-3 and 5-3.

Before the final, another match was played, in which the hondarribitarra Julen Basterra, the first puntista to leave the Hondarribia quarry, played in 2007 after the remodeling of the Jostaldi and the collaboration of Jai Alive with Hondarribiko Pilota Eskola. Basterra-Del Río have prevailed 25-18 to Benetrix-Mancisidor.

MemorialElola Facebook:

GOIKOETXEA-IRASTORZA, CHAMPIONS IN A TREMENDOUS FINAL! 
GOIKOETXEA-IRASTORZA vs BEASKOETXEA-LOPEZ: 14-15, 15-8, 5-3
Chronicle: Fernando Elola

******INDESCRIBABLE

"It is said of what cannot be narrated or explained with words."

This is the definition of the word that came to mind after what I experienced yesterday at the Jostaldi fronton in Hondarribia.

Perhaps a more orthodox title could be A MATCH FOR HISTORY. In any case, I will try to relate the moments that four figures offered us yesterday in a match that leave their mark.
More than one of you will be thinking that I am an exaggerated, inordinate, excessive, disproportionate, excessive, excessive, extreme, hyperbolic, theatrical, dramatic and I let myself be carried away by my passion for this sport. But whoever has the option of watching this game delayed, see it with their own eyes and leave us their opinion.

I was lucky, along with the 280 people who filled the stands, to witness it live. There it is engraved in our memory.
We entered the fronton around 8:15. A previous match was ending, Basterra-Del Rio vs Benetrix-Manci. Go ahead two young boys doing their first steps and demonstrating their skills. In the rear, two pelotaris also young but with traces of having played many games and knowing how to be on the court. The party opted for the red couple to a greater extent thanks to the power and speed of Del Rio's right wing.

At 8:30 the four protagonists of the night come out to the field to warm up. The expectations are high. From the start, the Colorado Goiko-Irastorza carry the band of favorites. Blue Beaskoetxea-López come with the purpose of breaking the forecasts. The games have to be played and here nobody gives anything away. Let's see what happens.

Already in the warm-up it is clear that we are seeing four superclasses. All balls go into the ball basket as if they had a magnet on the tip. This promises.

Parade, official greeting of the participants and judges. 
Kick-off for the Reds.

We started, Goiko with the serve and they began to rally. The contestants measuring forces and entering the game. First goals fall on the red side. In the blink of an eye they get 6-3. Of those 6 goals, half have been made by Goiko placing the ball two walls to the right like someone who takes a beer at the bar counter while talking with his friends of the time. That is, he enters from the right into the 6-7 box, he waits for Beaskoetxea to move inside thinking that he is going to cut the ball and immediately arms his arm and puts it out of reach of his opponent. It's that easy, sew and sing.

It seems that Goiko and Irastorza want to finish on the fast track. But gentlemen, this is good Jai alai. The four ball players are very wise and very focused on the game from minute 1. Beaskoetxea begins to show his best version. From the cold and uncomfortable pelotari that we saw in the first set of the previous semifinal, he becomes a machine that borders on perfection. The aita used to say that the top basket is a three-cushion billiard game (front, left wall and bounce). In the two front bands is where the blue striker marks the ball with absolute precision. Several two unreachable right walls, left to the txoko [corner] with the side, reposition the marker and the reds do not finish leaving.

There are no gaps behind. Irastorza and López make the difficult easy. The game is a show every now and then, a feast for the eyes. Every so often is a sublime lesson from the aforementioned game of billiards. López's backhand puts the ball on the left wall looking for the chula. Irastorza's right is a line with a scope and definition that any other couple would not be able to see. In this section of the game, Goiko is not being as decisive as in the first goals. His famous speed cuts do not reach the left wall and Beaskoetxea reaches them to continue the rally.

Beaskoetxea-López take out a dead ball. The reading of the game is very clear. With a live ball they have nothing to do against Irastorza's right and Goiko's power. With a dead ball, it is about boring the opponent and taking advantage of the extension and reach of López's backhand to disable Irastorza.
The fact is that what they take out of the basket is not a dead ball but what we know in the world as "a potato". 
Impossible to get back with that potato.

It seems like a hand game of the ancients where the goals took minutes and the balls to the wall were counted in an endless give and take between the defenders.

Thanks to this strategy the Reds despair and we reached the first draw of the match. 9-9. The stakes are high. There is no clear favorite. At 10-9 there is a controversial play. Beaskoetxea throws a two-walled right and the 100 kgrs. Goiko's move like a dancer to reach the net. She scores but in her movement she touches the net with the basket, he rebuilds himself, takes a few steps forward, and cuts, but by then the judge raises the racket and invalidates the racket. So much for the blues. Goiko protests but the judge's decision is final. Between us the debate is served, is it good? Is it missing? Can you touch the net with the basket? Does it say it somewhere in the regulation?

That said, the judge's decision is final.

We continue. We are in the decisive phase of this set. The Colorados are ahead, 11-10 Irastorza throws a right hand to the rebound but the ball narrowly escapes the width. From being a 12-10 we went to a new tie. 11-11

In this section of the game there is something that speaks for itself of the intensity and emotion that we are experiencing.

Beaskoetxea finishes the txoko sideways and Irastorza arrives from behind. It looks like a racehorse. Who would have thought that he had a hip surgery. Shoot into the left wall. Save the ball and continue the goal. He does not have time to return to his place and Goiko goes back. What madness. A distance similar to half a football field (52 meters) and 4 people cover all the possible gaps ...

Lopez is plugged in. And the goal ends by sending chula. The next goal also falls on the blue side. We are at 11-13. Oops oops oops

And now it happens the other way around, the next two goals are red. 13-13

We continue to attend an ode to perfection.

The tension is felt in the environment. Nobody wants to risk. The balls that the four pelotaris make are incredible. Both in favor of the blues, 13-14. Take out Beaskoetxea and Goiko cuts the game by entering the serve and leaving the ball in the txoko with the side. 14-14, Who gives more?

Last goal of this set. There are so many indelible images that come to my memory of this set that I can't remember who the ballplayer is who solves the goal. What I can remember is that once again on the field there are four gifted humans rallying and the entire public is in a breath waiting for the outcome. It looks like a tennis match where we move our head from one side to the other following the trajectory of the ball.

14-15 Both blue. Let's finish! there is no favorite here.

First set for Beaskoetxea-Lopez.

The second set starts and what we are going to see next is incredible. On the field, the colorados erase everything previously seen from the stage. Goiko-Irastorza are once again the unbeatable couple and overwhelm the opponents. Irastorza, who until now had scratched perfection, is surpassed and we see a series of so many UNRELEASABLE.

Irastorza is a bunker, there is no ball that passes through its surroundings that is not trapped in its basket and a ball that it cannot reach. He hits a Beaskoetxea slash and returns the play with another slash. If you want a cup, take a cup and a half.

The next goal leaves us all dazzled. He makes a right-hand shot at frame 10 and from there he throws a breathtaking cut. 
Take it now!

And to end the series, Beaskoetxea's right rebound crossed to frame 10. Under normal conditions it is a winning pitch, it passes to the forward and overwhelms the defender who cannot be put into the air, neither by early bounce nor by running bounce, but Irastorza with a temper and an astonishing calm puts a boat-host (sorry for the expression) and throws a right to two walls at the height of the head that leaves the three balls nailed on the court. Oh la, la !!!

Applause, whistles, the audience on their feet and enjoying something extraordinary.

10-3. We hear people say, "this set is sentenced". Well, look where, not yet. The blue ones recover the serve and return to the basket in search of another "potato". Endless rally and we go 10-7. Uy, uy, uy. But the waters return to their course, the goal opts for the red side and from here with a "normal" ball the set goes to the street for the colorados.

We are on the tiebreaker set. A detail, in the rest time, Goiko-Irastorza do not leave the field. They know they are on a roll and with everything in their favor. The blues go to the locker room and it takes a while. You have to break the dynamics of the game and try to get the opponents off center.
 
The judge claims his presence and the set begins.

In a tiebreaker at 5 points the difference is in mental strength. Many times the party opts for the one that withstands the pressure better. They take out the red ones and it's clear. Beaskoetxea is not the same. He hesitates and the perfection achieved in the pool game of the first set has been left behind. Lopez holds the guy, but once again on the court there is an unbeatable couple and the great Irastorza is joined by the appearance of the king who in difficult moments is when he brings out his genius. Goiko is heard yelling and asking for the ball from his partner. I go! I go! calling on Irastorza to let the ball pass so that he can rebound from the right and dominate the goal. Who was going to say it, a throw like the rebound, which in its day was a defense play, has today become an attack play. Also must say The balls are very lively and if you don't hit the cool thing, something really difficult with this material, the forwards are bouncing at will from frame 6.

What we are at ... Tiebreaker set with so many beautiful, intense, full of quality and the partials are 2-0, 4-2. The Blues, thanks mainly to the work of López in his best version, are approaching 4-3 but the last goal escapes him and he hits a stick in the 11th box that ends the match.

Applause, applause, applause, a standing audience and a match for history.

A neo-amateur approaches Iñaki Egiguren, architect of the Jai Alai World tour with his brother Mikel, and asks him what the prize money is for the winners because, given the dedication and dedication of the four contestants, he does not leave his astonishment. He associates what he has seen with a tennis grand slam match or an American NBA final.

Hey friend! What you have seen today is the result of a hobby and dedication that has nothing to do with the financial compensation that the professional pelotaris of the circuit receive. Hopefully, one day the place that corresponds to the jai alai can be recovered and the efforts being made by all the participants of these events as well as their organizers will see their work rewarded.

Meanwhile, the fans will continue to enjoy the show.
Words are running out ...
Until another. 

+++++

Semi-finals articles translated into English by Google Translate

Jai Alive Facebook

Defined the final Hondarribia
The Jostaldi fronton has hosted the fourth and penultimate day of the 'Hondarribia Grand Slam', a scoring event for the Jai Alai World Tour. With more than 200 spectators, close to the limit allowed by the current regulations, and a good atmosphere, the semifinals were played, in which Beaskoetxea-López and Goikoetxea-Irastorza won. They will face off in the final next Friday, which will serve as a revenge for the league match, in which Goikoetxea-Irastorza won 15-14 and 15-4.
In the first semi-final, Olharan-Etcheto were slightly favorites against Beaskoetxea-López, as they were in better form, as evidenced by the fact that they had won both games in the league. They dominated the match and had it close, but finally gave up in three sets: 15-12, 14-15 and 2-4 after an hour and a half of play.
In the first set you could see so many of Olharan's merit but the score was even until 7-6. There the reds escaped to 13-8 and 14-9 but it was difficult for them to finalize the set.
In the second heat the Blues started winning 0-2 but again it was Olharan-Etcheto who led the score, in this case with a maximum advantage of four goals at 10-6. With 14-11 it seemed done but Beaskoetxea-López came back with a 0-4. They raised the partial to 0-8 with the initial 0-4 of the tiebreaker set, which were awarded 1-5.
In the second game, Goikoetxea-Irastorza did have a clear lineup of favorites against Olha-Del Río and they confirmed it by winning in two sets (15-7 and 15-8) and in just fifty minutes of play.
The match began with a 7-1 that pointed to the direction it was going to take. The Reds were superior and had their maximum advantage at 13-6, to finish 15-7. In the second set, the first goal was blue, but their joy did not last long, because Goikoetxea-Irastorza did not go out of their dominating script. After 10-4 there was an approach to 10-7 and 11-8 but the match ended with 15-8
Today's two games can be seen tomorrow Saturday from 12.00 on ETB4.
Chronicle Iñigo Aristizabal

MemorialElola Facebook

HIGH VOLTAGE MATCHES
Semifinals in Hondarribia of the Jai Alai World Tour.
Together with my inseparable companion from fatigue, Goyo Altuna, we arrived in time to have a “fresh garri” before the appointment. Known faces in the environment. Jonhatan Hernandez “el Duke” greets us, attentive and elegant as he is alone. We are pleased to share a few minutes with Xaxun Abeberry, to whom we offer our condolences for the recent death of his brother, an institution in the Punta de Iparralde basket. I am also lucky enough to meet Recalde, alias “Nervious”, another pelotari from the times of Barcelona and Dania (glorious years, what good memories…).
We approached the fronton at 8 o'clock. Among the many good things the organization is doing is respecting the schedule. Nice atmosphere in the stands. Full within capacity limitations.

Notice to sailors, whoever wants to see the final next Friday can reserve the ticket because they are going to sell out.
We are already inside, ready to see the show.

Olharan-Etcheto vs Beaskoetxea-Lopez, an interesting match on paper. Each one presents their credentials. The Iparralde couple in red overflow with energy and the blue ones with their know-how. We will see who wins the contest, youth versus veteran.
The meeting begins. First so many and Olharan looks huge. A legs that reach everything must be added a successful night. All the shots come out perfect and well supported by Etcheto they go on the scoreboard.
Beaskoetxea looks uncomfortable, cold, does not finish bouncing and his famous pencil is not well regulated. In fact, we hardly see him finish. López, in the back, fulfills his role, but hits some sticks backhand.

His way of playing is curious. Apply the law of least effort. Sometimes it seems that instead of being in a high-intensity critical game, he is recreating himself and walks around the field “rehearsing” positions. Enter the ball with total parsimony and play with it. Now I put it at 8, now at 10, now I extend to rebound, ...

Another curious issue is his way of shooting with the right hand. More than making a basket, what he does is "throw the pot" as we say in baseball slang. He enters from the front, makes a tourniquet to the ball, repositiones himself, thinks and then puts it on, also always with poison.

Every time he takes a right, Goyo, who is next to me, squirms and lets out “Dirty! Dirty!!! But have you seen that? They are all missing ”.

Actually, the days of fair play, hitting and shooting, are long gone. In this case it can be said that López plays 4 times. But hey, let's go back to the game I'm going to another topic, ...
We are in full set. From the initial rehearsal and hesitations we have gone on to an intense rally. A lot of speed and the goal must be won. Olharan and Etcheto are embroidering it anyway. The color of the set is red. There goes a two walls of Etcheto that Beaskoetxea does not reach, who stares into infinity. You seem to wonder what is going on here? The feeling of discomfort continues. Furthermore, he continually complains about the ground. Claim the mop repeatedly to pass it through the serve area.
The Reds leave and take the first set with relative ease although the score is adjusted in the final stretch to 15-12.
Second set. There are no jokes here. The pass to the final is at stake.

The blues come out more toned and start winning the first goals. The engine hot, the arm loose, López begins to direct his bazooka backwards. Beaskoetxea begins to loosen from the right. His right-hand rebounding is striking. It gives the feeling that he falls short and recovers the ball from far below. With effort he releases a whiplash that gives him a devilish speed.

We are seeing so many beautifully made. As the headline of this chronicle says, High Voltage Party. The four pelotaris on the court at full capacity. But Olharan is immeasurable. Accompanying him, Etcheto also puts everything in and delays the ball.
The spark of the reds again overflows the blues. What looked like it was going to be a more even set turns red and we hit the 14-10 card. Five "Matchball" for the reds. One step from glory, one step from the final.
And the unthinkable happens. Olharan, impeccable throughout the night, fails to run a ball with everything in his favor. He rushes, in his head he is thinking "We have already won." But you do not have to sell the bear skin before hunting it.

Nerves on the court. Beaskoetxea-Lopez have been transformed into a block without loopholes.

Revesazo by López, right rebound by Beaskoetxea, failure by Etcheto and the Reds can't believe it. 14-14

And now that?

Well Beaskoetxea delights us again with a right rebound, with speed, crossed to frame 10 that runs over Etcheto.

14-15. Set for the blues.

The veteran and the mettle have been able in this set against the momentum and the youth.
Tiebreaker set to 5 as many. All nothing.

The reds come out with the moral touched. Once again they rush and accelerate in the rally. Both have to be worked on. You have to wait for the ball, give it your time. You have to be within the party. Etcheto is insecure and cannot with the blows that Beaskoetxea is released from a right rebound. Olharan, who had played a game of 10, enters in a bad way to rest of service and hits a stick. Seen and not seen, 0-4 for the blues.

Olharan and Etcheto seem to realize the mistake and get down to business. 2-4
But the reaction is late and there are no more miracles for tonight. Once again a right rebound (what a whip) from Beaskoetxea puts things in their place. 2-5
Beaskoetxea - López to the final.

The audience deservedly applauds the four pelotaris after a vibrant match, the kind that leaves you with a smile on your face.
We go to the second semi-final.

Goikoetxea-Irastorza vs Olha-Del Rio.

Curiously, I met Goiko on a work visit last Wednesday and asked him:
- How about Iñaki? Ready for Friday?
- Yes, we have already done a couple of rehearsals and fine. Easy match.
What may seem arrogant or presumptuous is actually one more example of the confidence and ease with which the "king" faces challenges.
And indeed, that was the game, Olha and Del Rio were always behind on the scoreboard without giving any sense of concern about the final result.
15-7 and 15-8 in favor of the reds.
Point out some personal observations:

Goiko-Irastorza are a couple from another galaxy, they blend perfectly and play with a precision that reminds us of a Swiss watch.

Goiko looks like a robot, he does everything well and on autopilot. He serves crossed with speed, he does not miss, he is not wrong, he is where he needs to be, and he puts the ball where it needs to be put.

What to say about Irastorza. A right lever with direction, with control, that always puts the opposite in trouble. And it also does not fail ...
Beaskoetxea-López will need their best version to face the favorites. They are going to have a difficult time in the final next Friday.

We will be there to see what happens.
Olha can be said to be a high-level player, with a cheerful and combative backhand. Maybe he lacks some regularity to be part of the Olympus club.

As for Julen Del Rio, I was surprised. It was the first time I had seen him play. A recently “debuted” kid with very little experience in professional tournaments.
More than surprising, it dazzled me. He has a nerve and a freshness to the right that I don't remember ever seeing.

Such is the speed that he prints with the right that he was able to run over Goiko and Irastorza on several occasions. There is nothing ...

It must also be said that he still has a lot to learn. Most of his balls go straight, without malice. If he is able to cross and fiddle with that shell that comes out of his arm, he is called to be one of the leading defenders of the near future.
And so far the chronicle of this Friday. I hope you liked it and it serves to convey the magic and charm of this unique sport.

Jai Alai, the fastest ball sport in the world.

+++++

Day 3 Round Robin translated into English by Google Translate

Jai Alive Facebook

Defined the semifinals in Hondarribia
BEASKOETXEA-LOPEZ & OLHA-DEL RIO, classified for semifinals
The last day of the league has served to define the semifinals of the 'Hondarribia Grand Slam', a scoring event for the Jai Alai World Tour, which will be played on Friday the 9th at the Jostaldi fronton. Olharan-Etcheto will face Beaskoetxea-López and Goikoetxea-Irastorza will play against Olha-Del Río.
The third Friday of this autumn tournament brought with it two decisive matches, since in both the winners were going to get a place in the semifinals.
In the first match, Beaskoetxea-López started as favorites against Barandika-Mancisidor, but they needed 70 minutes and three sets (14-15, 15-6 and 5-0) to confirm their pass to the semifinal.
The first set took red (8-4) but several goals made by Barandika served to overcome (9-10) and reach the end level, with a partial victory for Barandika-Mancisidor.
However, from then on, the match was dominated by Beaskoetxea-López, who after 4-4 went to 15-6 which forced the tiebreaker set. In it, the 5-0 clearly speaks of how it developed.
Hormaetxea-Minvielle against Olha-Del Río were called up in the second game, but because of Hormaetxea's injury, Aaron played on his side. The victory went to Olha-Del Río by 10-15 and 12-15.
The first set was very even until 10-10, with changes of owner on the scoreboard, four draws and maximum advantages of two goals. From 10-9 it went to 10-15 for Olha-Del Río.
In the second after an initial breakaway (1-5) it was equalized again and Aarón-Minvielle won 12-10, but the Blues again finished better and also took the second set, 12-15.
Thus, on Friday 9 the semifinals of the 'Hondarribia Grand Slam' will be played and the final is scheduled for Friday 16.
Prior to today's matches, Jai Alive has donated seven new baskets to Hondarribiko Pilota Eskola. Since the reopening of the Jostaldi fronton in 2007, the San Sebastian company has been involved not only in the organization of festivals, but also in the dissemination of the punta basket in Hondarribia, where the fans and practitioners have been growing in recent years.

+++++

Day 2 Round Robin translated into English by Google Translate

Jai Alive Facebook:

Two couples qualified for the semifinals
This afternoon, the Jostaldi fronton of Hondarribia has hosted the second day of the 'Hondarribia Grand Slam', a scoring event for the Jai Alai World Tour. Once again, the public has responded well and practically nearly 200 seats have been covered out of the 280 available seats, less than half the capacity of the facility, to guarantee interpersonal distance.
Having won both last Friday and today, the Goikoetxea-Irastorza and Olharan-Etcheto couples secure their place in the semifinals. That also means that next Friday's two games will be important, since the winners of them will go from the league to the final draw
In the first match, Goikoetxea-Irastorza had qualification for the semifinals within their reach, as they had beaten Barandika-Mancisidor the Friday before. In theory it was not going to be easy against a couple of the level of Beaskoetxea-López, but they scored their second victory with more clarity than expected. 15-14 and 15-4.
The first set was even, with Beaskoetxea-López taking the reins on the scoreboard but without escaping. They did it from 7-7, going to an 8-13 that made one think that they were going to score the set. But Goikoetxea woke up and pulled the red couple to get closer to 12-13 and, after 13-14, complete the comeback.
The 7-2 run was like the runway for the second set, which started 4-0 and was completely dominated by the Reds. Beaskoetxea got a couple of worthwhile goals, but they weren't enough to contain a couple that barely made mistakes and went to 15-4.

The difference between the two sets was also reflected in the playing time, 35 minutes in the first set and 22 in the second.
In the second match Olharan-Etcheto were also in a position to seal their place in the semifinals and started as favorites against Hormaetxea-Minvielle, but it was not until the second set that they confirmed it. It was difficult for them to take their second victory, 15-14 and 15-4, curiously the same score as in the first match.
In the first set the 0-1 could have been anecdotal and those who dominated were Olharan-Etcheto, to the point that they reached an income of six goals at 11-5. But also in this match there was a comeback and Hormatexea-Minvielle changed a 13-8 for 14-14. After working so hard, they couldn't take the set. After the scare of the first set, Olharan-Etcheto were intractable in the second, with hardly any mistakes and confirming that they can be the top favorites of the tournament. If the first set was even and almost half an hour long, the second did not go beyond twenty minutes and with an unappealable 15-3, after having started level (3-2).
Everything that happened today at Jostaldi can be seen on Sunday from 1:30 p.m. on ETB4.
Next Friday the 'Hondarribia Grand Slam' league will be completed, with the matches between Beaskoetxea-López and Barandika-Mancisidor, from group A, and Hormaetxea-Minvielle against Olha-Del Río. The winners will complete the semifinals, scheduled for October 9. The final will be played on the 16th of the same month. Chronicle: Iñigo Aristizabal

MemorialElola Facebook:

THE COLOSSES
This could be the title of the movie we saw yesterday at the Jostaldi in Hondarribia. On the field, two supernatural phenomena delighted us with a show that defies the laws of physics.
We are talking about Iñaki Osa Goikoetxea and Erik Irastorza. 1- 40 + 44 = 84 years 2- 100 + 100 = 200 kilograms 3- 1.93 + 1.95 = 3.88 meters in height
1- 84 years. They say that age is not forgiving but they are wrong. In this case, age adds up. Experience, poise, knowing how to be, wisdom, picaresque,… These are some of the qualities demonstrated yesterday by the two “veterans”.
2- 200 kilograms. "Power without control is useless". I was sentencing a tire commercial some time ago. And the 200 kilograms of weight that both pelotaris add are perfectly balanced and directed.
3- 3.88 meters high. What could be a handicap in terms of mobility becomes an insurmountable wall with a span that encompasses and covers all the gaps on the pitch. But we go from the trailer to the movie;
Goiko-Irastorza of colorado. Beaskoetxea-López de azul.
On paper, Irastorza's 44 years and a hip operation performed this year gave Marshal López an advantage. Up front, King Goiko with few games this summer has not worn his crown so far and the “pen” Beaskoetxea is a classy player capable of beating anyone.
The first set starts.
First scores and several "sticks" from the red defender put the blues ahead. The engine is cold. Goiko also does not warm up.
The quarterback expands on the court and Beaskoetxea takes advantage of his opportunities to finish with precision.
A curious detail about who rules the blue couple. When changing balls, Beaskoetxea did not look into the basket. It is López who bounces and chooses the right ball. The game follows its script and by the time we realize it the card reaches 08-13. It seems that the set is ready for sentencing. But here the colossi arise. Irastorza does not lose the ball and fiddles with the right. That whiplash that in his youth overflowed the opponents has been tamed and now adjusts to the precise moment and circumstances to put the ball with enough speed out of the opponent's reach. Goiko puts on the work diver and begins to distribute candles.
12-13. "They come, they come" used to sing in chorus the gamblers of the Palace fronton in Barcelona when the second leg of the game came.
Both decisive, they play the tie at 13. Rally on the court where there is no loophole. The four pelotaris cover all the gaps and the 56-meter fronton shrinks, transforming into a cage where the ball comes and goes at high speed.
Irastorza scores a ball in an advantageous situation. Something advanced and open throws a right side to pass and do both. "Ooooohhhh" exclaims the audience, the ball hits the left wall above the top line.
12-14, Something away from winning the set. So close and yet so far. The colossi did not give up in their efforts and the king sentenced the house brand txik-txak with right hands.
15-14. Primer set colorado.
We go to the second set and the blues wake up from their dream. There are only two pelotaris on the court. Goiko and Irastorza give a recital of power and class that leaves us speechless.
A definitive 15-04 sentences the contest.
And the Oscars are for ... The red couple. Best screenplay Best Lead Actor Best direction Best music …
We returned to reality and chatted with Xumai Goya (We met in Mexico. He is still as nice and talkative as ever). “I am suffering from a hip problem and I wanted to see how it is possible to play basket after hip surgery. I can not believe it"
Apparently, Irastorza's operation was not a complete implant of the hip, but rather a covering of the capsule. Science advances. If we add to that a superclass ball, the result is surprising.
"Chapeau" Monsieur Irastorza. A pleasure to behold watching you perform.
There was a second game at Jostaldi but after the ecstasy of the previous show, everything that came from behind lost value. Four high-level balls. Olharan-Etcheto vs Hormaetxea-Minvielle The first set was a heads or tails. The 14-14 was resolved with a "pick and go" in favor of the colorados.
In this set the tireless "roadrunner" Olharan played his role with Etcheto, a guarantee in the rear, he does not lose any ball and reaches everything. For the blues Minvielle, a fighter as always, played well and Hormaetxea alternated goals of great value (he has an impressive side) with resounding failures.
In the second set Hormaetxea jammed and finished a mattress over and over again, to the sheet or to the counter.
Result 15-03 (sic) for the colorados. And that is all friends… We are waiting for you at the next show.

+++++

Day 1 Round Robin translated into English by Google Translate

Jai Alive Facebook:

Good feelings at the Jostaldi start

The Jostaldi fronton of Hondarribia today enjoyed a beautiful basket-tip festival, with the first day of the 'Hondarribia Grand Slam', a scoring event for the Jai Alai World Tour

The Hondarribian public, who have been enjoying the top basket for fourteen years, was eager after not having the proposal every summer because of the coronavirus. Finally Jai Alive, City Hall and Hondarribiko Pilota Eskola have organized this championship, which will be held for five consecutive Fridays. About 200 spectators have attended the Jostaldi fronton, fulfilling the interpersonal distance measurements as some of the seats have been disabled.

In the first match, Goikoetxea-Irastorza started as favorites against Barandika-Mancisidor, but the road to victory was not easy, 15-10 and 15-13. The young Mancisidor played at a high level, showing that he can soon be at the level of the best and Barandika is no surprise. There were so many very even and the veterans could not relax at any time.

In the first set, after being even until 5-5, Barandika-Mancisidor gave the first warning with a small breakaway until 6-9. The Reds reacted and turned the score around, scoring the set 15-10. In the second again the blues had advantages, although minimal at the beginning. Goikoetxea-Irastorza did not want surprises and from the tied 7-6 they went to 11-6. It seemed they had the set in their pocket, also at 14-11, but there was excitement almost to the end, 15-13.

In the second match, two couples from group B, Olharan-Etcheto and Olha-Del Río, met with victory for the former 13-15, 15-8 and 5-4.

The first set went to Olha-Del Río, with an outstanding performance from the defender, who took his iron right for a walk and showed signs of his progression. In fact, he was the highlight of the match. 13-15 for the Blues after coming back from 9-7 against.

The blue trend continued in the first bars of the second set, but after 2-3 Olharan-Etcheto took command on the scoreboard, 6-3. The match was even until 8-6, at which point the Reds took off, until 15-8.

The playoff set was electric and very close. 1-0, 1-2, 2-2, 2-3, 4-3, 4-4 and 5-4 with a two-walled Etcheto that Olha arrived at but could not because he found the net.

Next Friday at Jostaldi the second day of the 'Hondarribia Grand Slam' will be played, with the matches between Goikoetxea-Irastorza and Beaskoetxea-López from group A and Olharan-Etcheto and Hormaetxea-Minvielle from B. The leagues will be completed on 2 October 9, the semifinals will be played between the best two of each group and the final is scheduled for the 16th. Starting next Friday ETB will broadcast all the remaining functions.

+++++

Tournament Preview articles translated into English by Google Translate

Jai Alive Facebook:

The top basket returns to Jostaldi de Hondarribi
Starting with this week's, the next five Fridays the 'Hondarribia Grand Slam' will be held at the Jostaldi fronton, a scoring event for the Jai Alai World Tour. The event was presented today at the Hondarribitarra City Hall.
The mayor, Txomin Sagarzazu, has indicated that “even if it is not in summer, the Jostaldi is going to host five interesting basket-tip festivals. The City Council maintains the commitment to support this sport and it will be with all the guarantees of sanitary security ”.
In this sense, the Councilor for Sports, Juan Luis Silanes, recalled that “due to Covid-19, in May we began to speak with the company Jai Alive, also with Eusko Jaurlaritza. From the beginning it was seen that in summer it would be difficult to organize it, but the commitment is still there. It will be different, because there will not be that incentive of the gastronomy of other summers, but there will be great pelotaris that will play this tournament for five Fridays starting this week ”. Silanes wanted to “thank the work of Hondarribiko Pilota Eskola, which has grown a lot in recent years”.
Regarding hygiene measures, he explained that “the fronton has a capacity of more than 700 spectators, but this time around 300 people will be able to enter every Friday. Entry will be from above and exit from the sides. There will be staff giving directions or resolving doubts and everything will be marked. The seats will be marked, guaranteeing interpersonal distance ”.
On the part of Jai Alive, the manager Mikel Egiguren began by thanking “the City Council for its collaboration for so many years and also in this peculiar situation. We are very happy to be able to organize one of the most important tournaments of 2020 in Hegoalde, with a luxury participation. Hondarribia and the Jostaldi fronton are on the top basket map and in a prominent place ”.
Egiguren has recognized that "with this situation we are experiencing, it is not easy to organize festivals but everything is already underway and we are happy about it". The representative of Jai Alive recalled that “in 2007 when the Jostaldi fronton was remodeled, we got into an adventure. It has been a beautiful and hard job, which has been paying off every summer in terms of the professional basket and also with the progression of the members of the school, now one of the most powerful in the Basque Country ”.
Regarding the sporting aspect, he explained that “at the last minute we had the casualties of Unai Lekerika and Ibon Aldazabal, who had to go to the United States, and we gave the opportunity to two young players such as Julen Del Río and Mikel Mancisidor ”. As for the price of the ticket, there is a considerable reduction compared to other summers. "The entry will be five euros. It used to be at twelve, but there is no gastronomy. It's a reasonable price to see some of the world's best point shooters in action. "
Group A is made up of Goikoetxea-Irastorza, Beaskoetxea-López and Barandika-Mancisidor, and Group B includes Olharan-Etcheto, Hormaetxea-Minvielle and Olha-Del Río. This first Friday the matches will be Goikoetxea-Irastorza against Barandika-Mancisidor and Olharan-Etcheto against Olha-Del Río.
On Friday, September 18 and 25 and October 2, the league matches will be played, on October 9 the semifinals will be played and the final is scheduled for October 16. All the functions will begin at 8:00 p.m. and Euskal Telebista will broadcast all except the first one.

Jai Alai News Facebook: 

IN HONDARRIBIA, IF THERE WILL BE GREAT SLAM!

All are doubts in this time of Covid, and we do not know for how long. That any jai alai tournament can be held is already good news. There are not a few municipalities that are ruling out more or less massive events, and the basket-tip is in that position. Even more so in the case of a sport without television income.
In Hondarribia, the summer season has already ended, as well as tourists, a key and largely a reason for the already consolidated puntista season in this town. Even so, there will be a tournament, with a capacity reduced by 60% (more or less 300 tickets available), and a price of five euros (less than half than in previous years). In addition there will be people from the organization clarifying doubts and giving health instructions to attendees. Extraordinary measures for an extraordinary moment, which this year also affects pelotaris directly in their salaries. Euskal Telebista, yes, it will broadcast four of the five festivals of this Grand Slam, and ball fans will appreciate it.

Lekerika and Aldazabal, who were originally to play, will be on their way to Dania (Florida) once the tournament begins, and to replace them, Julen del Río (strong, right-wing defender, well known in Mexico) and the young mutrikuarra Mikel Manzisidor, who already participated (and won) the Mutriku Mastes with Goikoetxea. It is important to take advantage of the occasion and enter these tournaments, for these two pelotaris.

Dates: September 18 and 25, and October 2, 9 and 16. Five Fridays in a row.

Group A: GOIKOETXEA-IRASTORZA, BEASKOETXEA-LOPEZ, BARANDIKA-MANCI

Group B: OLHARAN-ETCHETO, HORMAETXEA-MINVIELLE, OLHA-DEL RIO

Matches:
* September 18: 
GOIKO-IRASTORZA vs BARANDIKA-MANCI
OLHARAN-ETCHETO vs OLHA-DEL RIO 

* September 25 (ETB):
GOIKO-IRASTORZA vs BEASKOETXEA-LOPEZ
OLHARAN-ETCHETO vs HORMAETXEA-MINVIELLE

* October 2 (ETB):
BEASKOETXEA-LOPEZ vs BARANDIKA-MANCI
HORMAETXEA-MINVIELLE vs OLHA-DEL RIO 

* October 9 (ETB): semifinals

* October 16 (ETB): FINAL

After Hondarribia, nothing is certain yet. Anyone who wants to see professional basket-tip live, will do no harm in taking advantage of every opportunity they have for it.

May everything go well and health to all

==============================

Tournament 2: (Google English Translations of Jai Alai News Facebook articles are provided below the Player Standings after the 2nd Tournament)

Mutriku Masters (July 31, August 7, 2020)

Miruitz, Mutriku (1)(2)

August 7

FINAL

Match Preview (Jai Alai News) (Basque) (See translation below)

Goikoetxea-Mancisidor 2
Ekaitz Mendizabal (Goixerri II) -Lekerika (Leke) 1
(13-15, 15-12, 5-4) (33-31)

Note: At the time this was posted, there was no Match video that I could find. If and when I find one, I will add it.

Selected linescore:

Tie breaker: 1-4; 5-4

Match articles

Diario Vasco (Castilian)

Jai Alai News Facebook (Castilian) (See Google English translation below)

5 Photos: (Jai Alai News Facebook)

First Match (Curtain Raiser--not part of a Tournament but will be included in 2nd Tier standings--see below)

Jokin (Arbe)-Aritz Mendizabal 2 Goenaga-Mandiola 1
(13-15, 15-11, 5-0) (33-26)

---

Semi-Finals

July 31

Preview Article (Diario Vasco) (Castilian)

Ekaitz Mendizabal Goixerri II)-Lekerika (Leke) 2
Goenaga-A. Aldazabal 0
(15-13, 15-9) (30-22)

Set Linescores (winners always listed 1st)

1st Set

0-4; 2-7; 4-8; 13-8; 15-13

2nd Set

2-1; 7-6; 13-6; 15-9

Goikoetxea-Mancisidor 2 Barandika-Etcheto 1
(15-11, 4-15, 5-1) (24-27)

Selected Set Scores (winners always listed 1st)

2nd Set

1-6; 2-9; 4-15

Tie Breaker

4-1; 5-1

Match article for both matches (Jai Alai News Facebook) (see Google English  Translation-below)

---

Jai Alive 2020 Partidos Standings, current as of the end of the Mutriku Masters Tournament (July 31, August 7, 2020)

Key: Player, Match Wins-Losses; Set Wins-Losses; (Tie Breaker counts for 1/3 of a decision) (For single paridos Points Won-Lost); Tournaments Won

Tournaments Won (M=Markina)(Mu=Mutriku)

Top Tier

Fronts (Delaneros)(Aurrelariak)

(Diego) Beaskoetxea  2-0...3.3--1.....1(M)
Goikoetxea...........2-1...2.6--4.....1(Mu)
Goixerri II..........1-1...3--1.3
Hormaetxea...........1-1...2--2
(Aritz) Erkiaga......0-1...1--1.3
Barandika............0-1...1--1.3
Goenaga..............0-1...0--2


Backs (Zagueros)(?)

Mancisidor...........2-0...2.6--2......1(Mu)
Lekerika (Leke)......3-1...6.3--2.3....1(M)
Lopez................1-1...2--2
(Ibon) Aldazabal.....0-1...1--1.3
(Aimar) Aldazabal....0-1...0--2
Etxeto...............0-2...1--3.3 

2nd Tier

Fronts (Delanteros)(Aurrelairak)

Antxon...............2-0...60-42....1(M)
Barandika............1-1...51-52
Arbe.................1-1...21-30 (1.3--1)
Goixerri II..........0-1...22-30
Goenaga..............0-1...(1--1.3)


Backs (Zagueros)(?)

Zabala...............2-0...60-42....1(M)
A. Mendizabal........1-0..(1.3--1)
Ibarluzea............1-1...51-52
Mancisidor...........0-1...22-30
Mandiola.............0-2...21-30 (1--1.3)

------

Google English Translations for Mutriku Tournament

FINAL MATCH PREVIEW

MUTRIKU MASTERS FINAL TODAY (Starting at 22:00)

GOIKOETXEA-MANCI vs GOIXERRI-LEKA

Game 1.: Goenaga-Mandiola vs Arbe-Aratz Mendizabal

It's nice to see how the people of Mutriku live the tip basket and how this sport protects it. The pelotaris put on a beautiful show in semis, and the Miruaitz fronton is a spectacular court to see the tip basket. Because the crowd is high above and the ball is taking an incredible speed. In today's final, whoever wanted to be present, had to move on time, Monday morning, four days before, so because two hundred tickets were sold. Not for less. There's a lot of fans in town, they organized a beautiful tournament, they brought pelotaris on end, and they mixed them with young promises from the village. All the ingredients on the plate.

Goikoetxea and Lekea need little introduction. Yesterday they gave the demonstration, both the robes and others in their San Juan de Luz matches. Some games already played above, took his march and yesterday we saw it great. Lekerika is again going through the start of the season very good level, and still hasn't lost any games in summer.

So things are unclear looking at the finals today. Mikel Manzisidor '' Manci '' by Goiko, winning Barandika and Etxetoi in semi-finals by 2-1 Ekaitz Mendizabal '' Goixerri '' Again against Legumes. Two sets and these sets and fails won against Goenaga and Aimar last Friday. Some people's goal will be to leave out of the game Goikoetxea, and on the contrary: Goikok takes and hurts. One of these two young mutrikuarras is going to put on the txapela today, but playing this year's Masters, is a win for Goixerri and Manci. And also, to some extent, for the people of Mutriku.

In the first game, Jon Goenaga will be on the court, son of the people who play in America. Snowman Jon Mandiola will follow behind to measure against Jokin Arbe and Aratz Mendizabal. Arbe is also from Markina Xemein, and the mutrikuarra, the young '' Goixerri

From ten o'clock at night, a beautiful show, for sure, at Mutriku's Miruaitz fronton. May the best win.

FINAL MATCH ARTICLE

GOIKOETXEA-MANCI, CHAMPIONS IN MUTRIKU!

Great atmosphere as expected in the Miruaitz fronton to witness the final of the Master Series, with two local pelotaris in the fight for the title -Goixerri and Manci- and another two puntistas, already in full form -Goikoetxea and Lekerika- after to play a few games this season.

The final was very balanced from the beginning. Two-three goals up or down, but without a clear dominator on the scoreboard, both in the first set and in the second. "I have not been very successful in serving," Goikoetxea told Jai Alai News. In Mutriku, the Zumaiarra has less space to serve due to the short distance between the rebound and the service line, and Goixerri, very clever forward, entered the rest, finishing the goal masterfully. The Colorados made up for that by dominating more, and scoring more goals in the rally. The first set went to Goixerri and Lekerika, 13-15, and in the second, the colorados were directly from the twelve equal to 15-12.

In the tiebreaker, Goixerri and Leke had the title in hand when they were missing both with the initial 1-4. The Colorados, with no margin for error, made a goal, 2-4 to maintain some hope. At that moment, Goixerri made a drop that seemed to be the final touch of the game, but Manci came running to box three and the goal went to the Colorados. Already at 3-4, Goikoetxea made two cuts, the first to tie, and the second to win a final, which they had practically lost.

13-15, 15-12 and 5-4 in a very exciting and high-quality match. Goikoetxea and Manci, Masters champions. And another important fact: in a week Goixerri and Manci have played two games with high-level pelotaris, essential matches to be able to get ahead and catch the rhythm of the maximum competition. Lekerika's first loss this summer. On Tuesday he will face Goiko again in the final of the Master 3 of Saint Jean de Luz: Goikoetxea-Aldazabal vs Jon Tambourindeguy-Lekerika.

In Mutriku's first match, victory went to Jokin Arbe and Aratz Mendizabal, 15-13, 11-15 and 0-5 against Goenaga and Mandiola in another tough and exciting encounter.

Former mutrikuarra player Isidro Lekube was in charge of pulling the plate in the final.

The tip-basket continues to "fill capacity".

----

SEMI-FINALS--MATCH ARTICLES FOR BOTH MATCHES

GOIXERRI-LEKERIKA AND GOIKOETXEA-MANCI, AT THE END OF MUTRIKU
GOIXERRI-LEKERIKA vs GOENAGA-AIMAR: 15-13, 15-9
GOIKOETXEA-MANCI vs BARANDIKA-ETCHETO: 15-11, 4-15, 5-1

Semifinals of the Mutriku Master Series last night at the Miruaitz fronton in the town of Gipuzkoa. Full capacity and great atmosphere, the 200 tickets were already sold for the day before. And among the attendees, three great figures. The mutrikuarra Isidro Lekube, and the markinarras Javier "El Jíbaro" Gisasola and Juan Mari "Chino" Bengoa, living legends of Jai Alai and first-rate fans. A luxury for young peloters to be able to play under the watchful eye of these figures. How much jai alai your eyes have seen!

As for the festival, a very nice first game in which local forwards Jon Goenaga and Ekaitz Mendizabal "Goixerri" faced each other, well supported by Lekerika the first, and Aimar the second. The match started well for Goenaga and Aimar. Playing very well the two, they put 0-4, 2-7 and 4-8 ahead. But when the ball flared up, Leke was able to do more damage with his right hand, ran over, scored two-sided goals, and the Colorados were able to score nine in a row to get 13-8 ahead. In the first section of the set, Goenaga left us some good goals, either from the side or to the right, and in the second section of the set, it was Goixerri who could show off more. The Blues approached but Goixerri finished the first game with a dizzying side: the ball overtook Goenaga and Aimar could not reach despite throwing himself "on the plate" on the counter.

In the second set the Blues fell out of play and Goixerri and Lekerika were always ahead, 2-1, 7-5, 12-6. Nice both the one that put on the scoreboard 13 to 6. Goenaga throws a great side, Goixerri arrives -the counter court is quite narrow- and breaks the ball from the right to do so much. The match ended 15-13 and 15-9.

In the second game, the young local defender Mikel Mancisidor played with Iñaki Osa Goikotxea. It is fortunate to play with Goiko, but also a great responsibility for a young player like Manci, and in front of the whole town. But he responded well, before a couple, Barandika-Etcheto, who does not need a presentation in any fronton. The biggest difference for a young player when starting to enter games of this level is the speed of the ball. That's the biggest change, the pace of the game. The game was entertaining and had two different faces. The first set was red, 15-11, but the second set was totally blue. After starting losing 1-6 and 2-9, it was clear that Goikoetxea was going to save all the cards for the tiebreaker. That's how it went.

After losing 4-15 in the second set, everything was decided in the third: a ball to Barandika's txapa, a txik-txak goal from forward Gernikarra, a stick from Etcheto, a right rebound from Goiko ... Without realizing it, the colorados were already short of both with the 4-1. The last serve of Goikoetxea, the one who did not see it, heard it. It sounded like a missile, and the target was Etxeto. Kick off and end of game. 15-11, 4-15, 5-1.

Next Friday the grand final will be played and a first game still to be determined. The only thing that is clear is that whoever wants to enter the fronton will have to wake up, and quickly.

Witnessing basket-toe matches, and of this level, in the Miruaitz fronton, is a unique experience that cannot be lived anywhere else. The public is glued to the net, on top of the pelotaris. The counter court is narrow, and the fan can feel very closely what is experienced on the court. The ball goes at tremendous speed, many goals are to "run over", the rhythm of the game is always very high and the sound of the ball against the wall, from so close, impresses. Whoever has never been there, let him write it down because in Mutriku jai alai is lived differently. Next Friday the fronton will be "filled" again. The only question is what day the tickets will be sold out and in how long.

Because one thing is clear, and this summer it is even more appreciated:
People are hungry for tip-basket.

==============================

Tournament 1: (Google English Translations below Tournament Standings below)

The 2020 Hegoalde (South Basque) Summer Partido season began with the Markina-Xemein Masters Tournament (July 10, 16, 19).

(Ibon) Aldizabal is out due to "elbow discomfort" he felt while training for the Cesta Punta World Tour's St. Jean de Luz (Donibane Lohizune) Master 1 Tournament. When he will return is unkown. (Jai Alai News Facebook)

Markina-Xemien (1) (2)

July 19

FULL MATCH VIDEOS FOR BOTH MATCHES (EITB)

2nd Tier final begins at 0:00
Championship final begins at: 1:05:23

Attendance: about 600 (full capacity)

FINAL:

(Diego) Beaskoetxea-(Unai) Lekerika (Leke) 2
Hormaextea-Lopez 0
(15-8, 15-13)  (30-21)

Notable: this was Diego's 4th Markina Masters Championship. He also won in 2016 (with Amigorena), 2017 (with Etxeto) and 2018 (with Irastorza).

"Lopez from Zumaia didn't play at the same level (as the others) and didn't enjoy playing."
Hitza match article (loosely translated by Google).

Partial linescore (winners always listed 1st)

Set 1:  4-0; 4-2; 5-3; 6-4; 7-5; 10-5; 14-8; 15-8

Set 2: 1-4; 11-8; 13-10; 14-12 (Diego service fault); 14-13; 15-13

Scoring:
Beaskoetxea +14 (including 2 service aces, 3 two walls, 1 dejada, 4 moztuak [cut], 2 atzean [behind];  -6 (including 1 service fault)
Lekerika +8 (including 1 moztuak [cut], 6 atzean [behind])  -5

Hormaetxea +8 (including 1 dejada, 1 moztuak [cut], 1 atzean [behind]) -2 
Lopez +2 (including 1 atzean [behind] -6

Total scoring for the match: +32 -19

Balls in Play: 303
Beaskoetxea 86, Lekerika 70, Hormaetxea 71, Lopez 76

Non error % 93.7 (Total balls in play - Errors) / Total balls in play)

No time given

2nd Tier Final

Antxon-Zabala 30 Barandika-Ibarluzea 21

Scoring:
Antxon +14 (including 1 service ace, 2 two walls, 2 dejadas, 2 moztuak [cut]);  -4 
Zabala +2 (2 atzean [behind]) -5

Barandika +11 (including 1 service ace, 1 two wall, 2 dejadas, 3 moztuak[cut]), 3 atzean [behind]); -4
Ibarluzea +1 (1 atzean [behind]) -10

Total Scoring For the match +28 -23

Balls in Play: 355
Antxon 97, Zabala 85; Barandika 92, Ibarluzea 81

Total non error % 93.5 (Total balls in play - Errors) / Total balls in play)

No time given

Preview article: (Jai Alai News Facebook) (see English translation below)

Match articles: Deia (Castilian); Hitza (Basque); Naiz (Castilian); El Correo (Castilian) (interview with Beaskoetxea). For translation of Jai Alai News Facebook article see below.

7 Photos (Jai Alai News Facebook)

+++

Semi-Finals 

July 16

Hormaetxea-Lopez 2 Goikoetxea-Etxeto 0
(15-10, 15-7) (30-17)

2nd Tier Tournament

Antxon-Zabala 30 Arbe-Mandiola 21

July 10

(Diego) Beaskoetxea-Lekerika (Leke) 2 (Aritz) Erkiaga-(Ibon) Aldazabal 1
(8-15, 15-13, 5-1) (28-29)

Partial linescore (winners always listed 1st)

2nd set: 7-6, 11-10, 12-10, 12-11; 14-11, 14-13, 15-13

Tie Breaker: 0-1, 5-1

2nd Tier Tournament

Barandika-Ibarluzea 30 Goixerri-Mancisidor 22

Jai Alai News Facebook article (see below for Google translation)

=================

Jai Alive 2020 Partidos Standings, current as of the end of the Markina-Xemein Masters Tournament (July 10-19, 2020)

Key: Player, Match Wins-Losses; Set Wins-Losses; (Tie Breaker counts for 1/3 of a decision) (For single paridos Points Won-Lost); Tournaments Won

Tournaments Won (M=Markina)

Top Tier

Fronts (Delaneros)(Aurrelariak)

(Diego) Beaskoetxea  2-0...3.3--1.....1(M)
Hormaetxea...........1-1...2--2
(Aritz) Erkiaga......0-1...1--1.3
Goikoetxea...........0-1...0--2

Backs (Zagueros)(?)

Lekerika (Leke)......2-0...3.3--1....1(M)
Lopez................1-1...2--2
(Ibon) Aldazabal.....0-1...1--1.3
Etxeto...............0-1...0--2 

2nd Tier

Fronts (Delanteros)(Aurrelairak)

Antxon.......2-0...60-42....1(M)
Barandika....1-1...51-52
Goixerri II..0-1...22-30
Arbe.........0-1...21-30

Backs (Zagueros)(?)

Zabala.......2-0...60-42....1(M)
Ibarluzea....1-1...51-52
Mancisidor...0-1...22-30
Mandiola.....0-1...21-30

==========
==========

LOOSE GOOGLE TRANSLATION OF JAI ALAI NEWS  PREVIEW ARTICLE OF THE FINAL

DIEGO IS GOING WELL MARKINA: 7 WINS IN 7 MATCHES

Gernikarra Diego Beaskoetxea (born in Miami 39 years ago) is doing well at the University of Markina-Xemein, and one more year, he will be in the final of the Cármenes. Last year he did not participate in the tournament due to calendar incompatibilities, but his last performances are counted by victories. Seven wins in the last seven games played at Markina-Xemein. Fans will remember well what happened in 2014. Then organized by the Basque Ball Federation, Goikoetxea and Duke played against Beaskoetxea and Urtasun. Goiko takes the ball, Diego enters the ball but it bites into the left wall and he receives a ball. He has to withdraw injured from the field at 4-0. That is his last "defeat" in the cradle of the basket-tip. The anecdote was that Aimar came in to replace him, and he won two games at the same festival. (Aimar-Duke against Goiko-Urtasun -the defenders changed-, and Aimar-Zabala against Barandika-Ubilla)
In 2016, Diego returned to Markina-Xemein and won the txapela accompanied by Amigorena. First eliminating Hormaetxea and Lekerika, and winning the final against Erik Mendizabal and Ibon Aldazabal. Year 2017, more of the same. Diego plays with local Etxeba. In the semifinals, victory against Barandika and Amigorena. They get the title by beating the Aldazabal de Berriatua brothers. 2018, champion again. Beaskoetxea-Irastorza against Goikoetxea-Ekhi, in two sets. In the semifinals they had already eliminated Hormaetxea and Lekerika.

Last year Diego did not play in Markina-Xemein, but this year, the first exam was difficult. Playing with Lekerika, beat Erkiaga and Aldazabal. The gernikarras endured the initial "downpour", they did not break down at any time, they were constant, they accelerated later, they dominated, they went up and they won.

Beaskoetxea has been a figure for more or less than a decade and is among the best in the specialty. He's already approaching 40, but he still looks young. 1'74m in height and 77 kilos in weight can be a disadvantage to fight against players who are taller and stronger than you. But Beaskoetxea has known how to get the most out of your body. Smart, efficient and with a winning character, Diego doesn't make much noise, but he's always there.

Hormaetxea and López are clear favorites in tomorrow's final (18:00). But the two gernikarras will go out for all. The ball is round and to win the games, you have to play them.

The public also expects a nice match in the final of the second category tournament, with markinarras Ion Ibarluzea and Jon Zabala, face to face, in the boxes behind. And two forwards who have known each other from a young age: Antxon Alberdi and Xabi Barandika.

MARKINA-XEMEINGO TXAPELKETAKO FINALAK
Unibertsitatea, 6:00 p.m.
BARANDIKA-IBARLUZEA vs ANTXON-ZABALA
Master Series: BEASKOETXEA-LEKERIKA vs HORMAETXEA-LOPEZ

Diego Beaskoetxea's last matches in Markina-Xemein

2016: BEASKOETXEA-AMIGORENA vs HORMAETXEA-LEKERIKA: 15-14, 15-10
BEASKOETXEA-AMIGORENA vs ERIK-ALDAZABAL: 13-15, 15-12, 5-1

2017: BEASKOETXEA-ETXEBA vs BARANDIKA-AMIGORENA: 15-12, 15-8
BEASKOETXEA-ETXEBA vs AIMAR-ALDAZABAL: 15-10, 5-15, 5-2

2018: BEASKOETXEA-IRASTORZA vs HORMAETXEA-LEKERIKA: 4-15, 15-10, 5-0
BEASKOETXEA-IRASTORZA vs GOIKOETXEA-EKHI: 15-14, 15-7

2020: BEASKOETXEA-LEKERIKA vs ERKIAGA-ALDAZABAL: 8-15, 15-13, 5-1

========================

LOOSE GOOGLE TRANSLATION OF JAI ALAI NEWS FACEBOOK FINAL MATCH ARTICLE: 

========================

BEASKOETXEA-LEKERIKA, CHAMPIONS IN MARKINA-XEMEIN!
BEASKOETXEA-LEKERIKA vs HORMAETXEA-LOPEZ: 15-8, 15-13

Second category champions:

ANTXON-ZABALA 30-21 BARANDIKA-IBARLUZEA

Great atmosphere, within the allowed limit (600 people) at the Universidad de la Pelota. End of the "Cármenes" although this year there have been no parties. Ball games yes, and the people have responded, and very well, in the three point days. Today, the favorites were Alex Hormaetxea and Imanol López. Gernikarras had only one option: to go for it all, and believe in their possibilities. And so they have.

Both Beaskoetxea and Lekerika have started the game with great power. By the time the blues realized, they were already 4-0 behind. A bit to the right of Leke, a mistake by the blues, and two good finishes from Diego - left aside, and cut from the right - has been his letter of introduction. The Blues have gradually entered the game, approaching a distance of two goals: 4-2, 5-3, 6-4. Alex has done things well (a baseball ball, two other side walls ...), and it seemed that López was already commanding. But the blues could not tie the game. Diego and Leke defended themselves very well, with a lot of communication between the two, and from 7-5 they have opened a gap. There have been so many spectacular ones, like the one who has put the cards 10 to 5. He takes out Beaskoetxea, Hormaetxea enters, he throws two walls, Diego arrives, he cuts, Alex scores on his knees and manages to lead, the goal continues and the forward striker ends. with a good two walls. Great ovation from the public. Then, Diego has rebounded: 11-5. Lekerika has made another great right hand in the 14-8 and Beaskoetxea ends the set 15-8. Surprise in the first game.

The reds have tried to move López, for example, pulling long cuts and forcing him to move forward. But the zumaiarra today has not been at the level of last Thursday and has not enjoyed playing ball like other times.

The second set started with a two-wall Beaskoetxea but the blues have taken the lead on the scoreboard 1-4 thanks in part to a bottle by Alex and another side inside the Bermeo striker. Hormaetxea and López have managed to put up with Gernika's partner at a distance of about two goals, up to six equal. There the colorados have taken the lead again, and have endured until the end. Worthy of mention: a cut to the width of Diego (11-8), another great goal from Lekerika, getting a difficult ball and ending with a cut (13-10), one side from Hormaetxea (13-11), and another from Lekerika, placing the right soft ball between Hormaetxea and López (14-12).

Beaskoetxea has drawn passes (they have five, the sixth pass is for both opponents). The blues have approached somewhat but the txapela was already predestined. It has been Lekerika who with another right hand from top to bottom has beaten López, who despite jumping and lengthening the basket, the ball has ended up passing him over. 15-13.

Deserved victory of the reds. In the semifinal they knew how to overcome against Erkiaga and Aldazabal, and today, they have believed in themselves.

They were very confident and the two played a great game. Hormaetxea has made his game but López has not been the overwhelming defender we know.
Fourth Beaskoetxea Master Series at Markina-Xemein. He has previously won them with Amigorena (2016), Etxeto (2017) and Irastorza (2018). He has eight consecutive victories at the University.

In the first match, victory for Antxon Alberdi and Jon Zabala. The Etxebarria striker has shown how pelotari he is, and Zabala has played a great championship. Very safe back. 30-21 against Barandika and Ibarluzea.
On the other hand, and seeing the circumstances in which we live, success in terms of public response and organization. The tip basket is bringing people to the pediments, both in Markina-Xemein and Donibane Lohitzune, within established limits and in compliance with sanitary regulations. Still, the situation changes every week and at the moment, there is no guarantee of what will happen next.
Health!

========================

LOOSE GOOGLE TRANSLATE OF 1ST SEMI-FINAL MATCH ARTICLE FOR BOTH JULY 10 SEMI-FINAL MATCHES

I could find no print coverage (except the scores) for the July 16 Semi-finals.

========================

***** GREAT START FOR BASKET-TIP! *****
BEASKOETXEA AND LEKERIKA, THE TRIUMPH OF CONSTANCE
Barandika-Ibarluzea 30-22 Goixerri-Manzisidor
BEASKOETXEA-LEKERIKA vs ERKIAGA-ALDAZABAL: 8-15, 15-13, 5-1

There were many nerves, but the return of the professional basket-tip has been a success. Good for the organization, in this case, the "yellow vests" of the Markina-Xemein club. They controlled the situation with note, facilitating handwashing with soap at the entrance, and approaching to give a warning if some clueless took off the mask. Many people in the pediment (the legal capacity was 60%, 600 people, and it would not be very far) and an applause for the public, who respected the rules both when choosing a seat, when approaching the bar and above all, maintaining during all the function the mask put on. It was important that the basket-tip gave that image of professionalism on both sides of the net, and it was. Applause for everyone.

As for the matches. The first semifinal of the Master Series was an entertaining match with an overwhelming start from the blues Erkiaga and Aldazabal. Berriatua's "whip" played a huge first set. In the first goal he already warned with a "txula". Not one was missing, he got all the balls, entered well in a row, dominated Lekerika and made things easy for his striker. Aritz was a whirlwind and his side was a marvel: cut to inside a rebound, to two walls, to the rest of the serve, to txik txak ... he made Beaskoetxea dizzy, who when he could reach the shots of Ispater, did not finish the both. The game was clearly blue but despite the gap in the scoreboard, the players played so many spectacular, well rewarded by the applause of the public. The Gernikarra couple wanted but could not. As it is said in Basque, "ezinean", but the credit went to Aritz Erkiaga and Ibon Aldazabal. 8-15 the first set for the blues. A show.

But in the second, everything changed. Not suddenly, but little by little. At the beginning of the set, the forwards exchanged several shots in the happy frames. Erkiaga continued with his master move, the side. Just putting yourself in that position, whatever the frame may be, already foretells the worst of the opponents. But the match was getting much more even, the Blues lowered the piston, they were no longer running, and Beaskoetxea and Lekerika saw their opportunity. They entered the party. They were constant. Both, they increasingly believed in their options and ended up sending from the middle of the set. Beaskoetxea made both of serving ahead in the score 7-6. The Blues were again taking a couple of goals. The Colorados tied for ten and Aritz and Ibon saw things get complicated. 11-10, cut from Diego. 12-10, Diego brings the ball back and so much. 12-11, txik txak of Aritz. 13-11, another cut from Beaskoetxea. The gernikarras were short of both with the 14-11, but the blues approached two goals and Aldazabal brought them back into the game with an incredible and perfect right cut. 14-13. But Erkiaga was wrong on the serve and Beaskoetxea finished the set with a two-sided wall. 15-13

In the tiebreaker to five there is no margin for error. And the blues missed. A ball from Aldazabal to the mattress and another from Lekerika put the two to zero in the light. The blues approached somewhat, but a risky entry by Erkiaga gave the colorados 3-1. Take out Beaskoetxea, Erkiaga enters the serve, throws a good two side walls, but Diego appears running in the counter-court through frame four. He puts the basket between the almost non-existent space between the ball and the net, and tearing his tool, he cuts the ball over the txapa to practically sentence the semifinal. 4-1. Erkiaga decides to take a risk, enters Diego's serve but the shot goes to the awning below. 5-1

Game entertaining and with a return that nobody expected. After the match, Beaskoetxea stated that they saw that they were playing well already in the first set, but that there was nothing to do against some intractable Erkiaga and Aldazabal. "We have continued at our level throughout the match. We knew that if they missed three to four balls, we might have a chance of winning." As for the public response, Beaskoetxea stated that they did not think that there would be so many people in the pediment. "On the street people are scared, but a lot of people have come to the Markina-Xemein pediment and it is appreciated."
On Carmen Day they will know who their opponents will be in the final on the 19th: Goikoetxea-Etxeto or Hormaetxea-López. Before either of these two couples, Gernika's will surely not start as a favorite. But...

In the first match yesterday, Barandika and Ibarluzea beat the Mutrikuarras Goixerri and Manzi 30-22. The Gernika striker assumed his role and took the game very well accompanied by the young local defender Ibarluzea, who showed off his magnificent backhand.