Valley Fort's pint-sized players get competition off to winning start

The sun brightened up So Kon Po as the Sevens opened with the curtain-raisers that are a tradition of the tournament.

The Angel Gabriel also shone down on Gabriel O'Connor and his teammates from Valley Fort's under-sevens mini-rugby club. Coached by his father, Adam O'Connor, for the past three years, Gabriel and his team defeated Sandy Bay, their closest rivals, 4-0.

Clearly father and son were enjoying themselves, and it was hard to see who was having the most fun sharing in the long-awaited moment of victory. Teammates and friends were there to help them celebrate and live the moment.

Charlie Taylor could not contain his excitement: 'I scored the winning try. This is the best Sevens of my life. I'm a pro athlete.'

The elder O'Connor, who is managing director at the advertising agency Ogilvy & Mather, said: 'These under-sevens brought their own version of creativity and fun on the pitch. I admire the way they turn up every Sunday, rain, hail, or shine.

'These children are all around six years of age. They go to Kellett School, French International and CIS, yet they come together as a team on the weekend and for the Hong Kong Sevens. It's terrific to watch and be part of it.'