The JILA Cup rivalry continued this week as the Lehnert group faced off against the Regal group in an epic beach volleyball tournament at the Boulder High Beach volleyball courts. The competition, held on Monday, September 9th, drew the attention of nearby spectators as the two teams battled it out for the glory of winning the JILA Cup. 

The Regal group, led by JILA Fellow and University of Colorado Boulder Physics Professor Cindy Regal, challenged the Lehnert group for a showdown on the sandy courts. What followed was a gripping match, filled with dramatic dives, powerful spikes, and exceptional teamwork. Both groups gave it their all during the three six-on-six games, but in the end, the Lehnert group came out on top, claiming victory and securing the JILA Cup once again.

As per tradition, the Lehnert group will commemorate their victory with a brass ring added to the neck of the JILA Cup, a unique trophy made from machining components. Typically filled with candy, the cup symbolizes friendly competition and scientific camaraderie among JILA's research groups.

With the latest victory in the books, the JILA Cup continues to symbolize the research institute's collaborative spirit. Undoubtedly, more challenges are on the horizon. The Lehnert group holds onto the coveted trophy for now, but the next challenge could come from any corner of JILA. Until then, the legend of this beach volleyball match will be remembered as another chapter in the storied history of the JILA Cup.

Written by Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, JILA Science Communicator