Hong Kong Sevens 2022: Fans applaud the return of sport showpiece as city gets ‘back on its feet’
- ‘There was never a question that we weren’t going to come,’ says one long-time resident, who has supported the Sevens for 24 years
- ‘It’s great to see it back,’ says resident and rugby referee Paul Teague. ‘It’s actually better than what I expected. It’s just what the city needs right now’
Fans have overwhelmingly applauded the return of the Cathay Pacific/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, with many saying this weekend’s event will be remembered as one of the most unique in Sevens history – and an important milestone for the city as it returns to normality.
Yesterday’s event peaked at just under 21,000 attendees, but you could be forgiven for thinking otherwise. The stadium was at times deafening, with roars from enthusiastic fans echoing across Hong Kong Stadium.
Claire, a Hong Kong resident of 25 years, said she was at this year’s event to help Hong Kong “get back on its feet”.
“There was never a question that we weren’t going to come. I remember coming in 2003 after Sars and that was a really important event to come back and support, this year felt the same.”
The finance executive said the atmosphere even had “echoes of the old Sevens”.
