The 50th anniversary of the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens began with a bang at Kai Tak Stadium on Friday with a stunning opening ceremony supported by the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
With the roof closed at the magnificent Kai Tak Stadium, the 34,000-strong crowd was entertained by a blockbuster show featuring South Korean K-pop girl group Primrose and Filipina singer-songwriter Gwyn Dorado.
Dorado’s powerful rendition of Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’ was followed by a dragon dance, and an electrifying robot-and-human cheerleading routine. The dancing robots were produced by Chinese Mainland company Unitree Robotics.
“This year marks a significant milestone for the Hong Kong Sevens as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. Over the past half-century, the Hong Kong Sevens has witnessed the development of rugby in Hong Kong, while also becoming a major annual international sporting event that draws worldwide attention, successfully attracting visitors from around the world to be part of it,” said HKTB chairman Peter Lam.
“With the strong support of China Media Group, HKTB has arranged for China-made robots previously featured in CCTV’s Spring Festival Gala to appear as special guest performers, adding a new highlight to the event. While enjoying world-class rugby, audiences can also experience the global-leading capabilities of China’s robotics, as well as Hong Kong's distinctive charm as the ‘Events Capital of Asia’, where sports, innovative technology and culture come together.”
Hong Kong’s Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law, added: “I am very grateful to Hong Kong China Rugby and the Hong Kong Tourism Board for their efforts in adding so many exciting elements to this year’s 50th anniversary of the Hong Kong Sevens. The robots’ performance was truly fun and full of energy. I hope local and visiting fans will come together this weekend to join the Hong Kong Sevens party.”
Immediately after the opening ceremony, Hong Kong, China men kicked off their Melrose Claymores defence with a 36-14 thumping of China.
Liam Herbert led the way with two tries, while Bryn Phillips, Matteo Avitabile, Rory Stewart Cox and Matthew Rickard also cashed in.
Hong Kong’s women couldn’t quite get the job done against Denmark, sharing the spoils 14-14 despite a two-try effort from Chong Ka-yan.
The crowd built steadily throughout the evening, with fans from around the globe soaking up the atmosphere.
“It’s my first time here and what a spectacle it is. We had the Doddie Dinner last night which was amazing with 500 people and HK$5 million raised and now we’re here for the rugby,” said London-based Scot Jim Strang, who is one of many tourists who has jetted in for the weekend.
“The stadium looks incredible, it’s buzzing and the rugby is fantastic, so there is nothing not to like. It’s an amazing spectacle.”
While Jim admitted he would love to be supporting a standalone Scottish team this weekend, he confirmed “my money is on Fiji to win it all”.
The Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens is proud of being an “M” Mark event that helps enhance the image of Hong Kong as Asia’s sports event capital. The “M” Mark awarded by the Major Sports Events Committee, symbolises intense, spectacular and signature events in the territory’s sports calendar.
