Brazil Beats Mexico, Scorching Heat to Win Women’s Beach Volleyball Gold at Pan-Am Games (Photos)

The 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico, have just a week of competition left, and the United States leads the medal count by a wide margin.

However, USA was absent from Friday’s women’s beach volleyball final, as Brazil defeated Mexico for the gold medal while Puerto Rico grabbed silver. Warm temperatures in Puerto Vallarta made for harsh conditions, but that didn’t prevent fans, cheerleaders and athletes from making the event a success.

The Pan-Am Games will conclude on Oct. 30.

Check out the best pictures from the beach volleyball events>>

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