Concerted effort to curb binge drinking among youth at Rugby Sevens
Event has amassed many traditions over 40 years including drinking to excess
Plastic beer jugs flying over the South Stand and days of hedonistic partying are mental images of the excesses that have come to be associated with the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens. But as the event celebrates its 40th anniversary, some contend the Sevens have grown up and evolved into a family event.
For one thing, the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union no longer allows beer jugs and under-18s into the South Stand. The HKRFU has also made concerted efforts with partners such as KELY Support Group in the past few years to help young people make healthy choices at the Sevens.
Dance instructor Melissa Thornton, who has kept Sevens crowds entertained between matches as a roving presenter in past years, lauds efforts to curb excessive drinking and other positive changes.
"I am especially proud that the event has grown from a male-dominated, Western-cultured occasion, to the family-oriented event it is today," she says. "This certainly hasn't [lessened] the fun for which the Sevens is renowned; however, controls have improved and should continue to be improved so that everyone can enjoy themselves in a safe environment."
It's also important the event retain its local flavour, she adds, and the HKRFU do a great job organising children's rugby matches to showcase local clubs.