Teen drinkers to be targeted at Hong Kong Sevens
Rugby chiefs join forces with support group for second year to tackle alcohol problems at event
Hong Kong Sevens organisers are once again working with a leading youth charity to combat teenage binge drinking at the event, after the success of last year's initial project.
The Hong Kong Rugby Football Union and the Kely Support Group will stress the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption to young fans at the tournament, which starts on Friday at the Hong Kong Stadium.
Binge drinking at the event has been a major worry for organisers in recent years.
Statistics from the Department of Health revealed the 18- to 24-year-old age bracket had the second-highest proportion of binge drinkers. The 17-to-19 age group drank most alcohol among youngsters at last year's Sevens.
While those under the age of 18 cannot legally consume alcohol in restaurants and bars, there is no age limit on the sale of alcoholic beverages outside venues with liquor licences.
Buying alcohol in Hong Kong is easier than elsewhere in the world, as it is sold in convenience stores and supermarkets. Despite this, Chung Tang, executive director of the youth organisation, said last year's project had been very beneficial.