The Copacabana… Rio’s iconic beach where Carioca residents are famous for their ability to unwind and take in the sunshine.

It’s also a site renowned for its beach Volleyball — and now an Olympic host — in an arena capable of holding some 12,000 spectators.

Here, preliminary matches are already underway.

And despite long lines and months of controversy about the funding of these Summer Games in a country deep in recession, Brazilian fans are excited to host the sport on their own sand.

“Brazil is very good at volleyball, beach volleyball actually, this team we watched are world champions. And the volleyball arena is so nice, because there is a nice environment, there was music and it is very good.”

The younger fans keep the Olympic spirit alive.

“Since you see, like last night at the Opening Ceremony, so many walking in from different countries it makes you think ‘wow, that could be me one day’.”

The beach hasn’t always looked this good. A little over a month before the games kicked off, human body parts were discovered just a few yards from the Olympic beach volleyball venue, adding to the long list of concerns.

But for many here, that’s a thing of the past, and spectators and athletes are ready to see the games play on.