Proving that the Hong Kong Sevens is a game for all, last year was the first year that women were allowed into the Carbine Club pre-Sevens lunch, rubbing shoulders with a host of all-time greats.
They included Springboks Jean de Villiers, John Smit and Mornay du Plessis, and former Lions Andy Nicol, Warren Gatland, Lawrence Dallagio, Andy Hall, Peter Wheeler and Ieuan Evans.
This year, the bush telegraph was working overtime and women were quick to take up the still coveted seats, despite this Sevens falling just after Easter and the Ching Ming Festival, meaning three days could be taken off work and spun into a 10-day break.
(From left to right) Christine Hood, Mary Covatta, Ceryn Fisk-Jones, Emily Trusler, Samantha Stowe and Annette Steadson at the Carbine Club Lunch. Photo: Robby Nimmo
Marketing specialist Mary Covatta, who was enjoying her first Carbine experience, said: “I speak three languages – English, Italian and sports humour.”
“My daughters grew up in Hong Kong and one has three caps for England and one may well play for Hong Kong , so I’m enjoying today’s rugby banter,” said teacher Christine Hood.
‘My husband is the corporate handbag. I got the job first in Hong Kong, I love a rugby lunch,” said another well turned-out corporate.
