MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Marines and sailors splashed into competition during a Combat Water Polo Tournament at Camp Pendleton’s 13 Area pool, Sept. 15.

The event was part of the Pendleton Cup series hosted by the Marine Corps Community Services’ Semper Fit division.

The Pendleton Cup series provides active duty personnel, regardless of skill or experience, an opportunity to take part in a variety of competitive unit sports. It is also a competition for monetary prizes to be given to each respective unit's funds.

The top three teams in this year’s tournament included the 9th Communications Battalion “Chaps,” the Marine Corps Tactical System Support Activity “Gurus” and the Assault Craft Unit-5 “Swift Intruder.”

Each game was divided into two seven-minute halves and each team was only allowed five players in the pool at-a-time. A competitor also could not intentionally submerge the ball under water, and was only allowed to have one hand on the ball at-a-time.

“The level of competition displayed here today was very entertaining,” said Patrick Cubel, spectator. “Although this was just for fun, the seriousness of each player was remarkable.”

Numerous units participated in the event, but it was the Chaps that came back from a two game deficit to beat the Gurus twice for the championship.

“Our team did great, thanks to our teamwork,” said Tyler Kidder, team Chaps. “Even though we came into the championship game with our back against the wall, we didn’t let that affect our play.”

During the championship round the Chaps dominated the first game with a score of 14-7, and sealed the title with a score of 8-5.

“The Chaps really pulled through as a team and won fair and square,” said Hector Gonzalez, team Guru. “I am just glad we all had clean safe fun.”

For more information about participating in the Pendleton Cup events, call the base’s athletic director, Tom Fisher at 760-763-5519. All participants must be active duty military.