Editorial | Scintillating Sevens score for Hong Kong’s image on international stage
- Iconic rugby competition roars back for first time since lifting of pandemic curbs to show world what it has been missing
The successful return of the Hong Kong Sevens in November, after an absence of 3½ years, marked the beginning of the city’s push to return to normal life after the pandemic.
But with Covid-19 restrictions still in place, the rugby tournament was not as big or bold as in the past. That made last weekend’s fully fledged tournament all the more important. The flagship event, with its carnival atmosphere and intense sporting action, signalled the city is on the way back.
The three-day competition at Hong Kong Stadium was attended by 75,000 people. This time, there were few masks and more visitors from overseas. The famous party atmosphere was back, giving bars and restaurants a much-needed boost.
There was some top class rugby, too. New Zealand claimed the honours with winning men’s and women’s teams.
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Hong Kong Sevens rugby returns, kicking off 3 days of partying
There was much for local fans to cheer. The Hong Kong men’s team won silverware for the first time since 2010, claiming the shield. For the first time, a leg of the World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series was held alongside the men’s tournament. The Hong Kong women’s team scored their first try in the competition.
The battling spirit of both local teams, roared on by an enthusiastic crowd, was inspiring.
