Off Track ..... Games brings in bucks, boosts interest in sport

The bikini appeal is the same but the business of beach volleyball is a far cry from what it was when the sport first graced the 1996 Atlanta Games.

Media coverage has grown exponentially since then and with it has come more money, tournaments and interest.

"Being included in the Olympics has changed our sport dramatically," said Australian Natalie Cook, who has played in all four beach volleyball Olympics.