Hong Kong Sevens makes a sparkling return to fun of the past – ‘it’s well and truly back’
- This was a no mask, no barrier, no-restrictions return after last November’s test run, with entertainment back in full force
- Businesses expecting to double revenues as officials hail return of normal service, and not even constant rain could dampen the occasion
The Hong Kong Sevens made a sparkling return on Friday, resuming its usual spot in the city’s social and sporting calendar for the first time since 2019.
If last November’s event was a test run after years of Covid-enforced cancellations, this was a no mask, no barrier, no-restrictions return to the fun of the past.
With businesses reportedly expecting to double their revenues of recent years, and officials hailing the return of normal service, not even the constant rain could dampen the occasion.
From the morning’s mini-rugby, to the dragon dance and singer Joyce Cheng Yan-yee’s sequinned turn at the opening ceremony, and thumping atmosphere that greeted Hong Kong’s men as they ran out to take on France in the last game of the day, this was the city back to its best.
Robbie McRobbie, the Hong Kong Rugby Union CEO, said while November’s tournament had been “wonderful” it had still been missing “key elements that people know and love about the Sevens”, such as the mini and youth rugby and some of the entertainment.
“This event, with those elements back, and the women’s teams as well, we’ve ended up with three absolutely fantastic full days of entertainment on and off the pitch,” McRobbie said.