Organisers of the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens have confirmed that the event will take place at the newly-built Kai Tak Sports Park next year after three decades at the Hong Kong Stadium. The rugby showcase will run from March 28-30. Chris Brooke, chairman of Hong Kong, China Rugby, said the body is extremely proud to be staging one of the key international events at the Kai Tak Sports Park during its opening period. "The convergence of Hong Kong's most iconic sporting event and the city's much anticipated and world-class stadium promises to usher in a transformational moment for both the Sevens and sport in our city," he said. "We have been working closely with World Rugby, Kai Tak Sports Park and relevant representatives of the Hong Kong government for over five years in preparation for this move and are confident of being able to deliver a fitting international sporting event in the new stadium during Kai Tak Sports Park's opening period." James Farndon, CEO of Hong Kong, China Rugby, said he hopes to make these Sevens a sell-out event, with fans walking away with an unforgettable experience. He added that elements from the old stadium will be incorporated into the new venue, including a fully-upgraded "South Stand". "There is a retractable roof and there is air conditioning for every seat," he said. "The whole experience and comfort of the event is going to be fantastic, but also the view of the pitch, it's going to be different to the old stadium, but equally very exciting for viewers to see that pitch within the whole new state-of-the-art stadium." Farndon also said that the Sevens aren't just a rugby tournament, but also a mega event to grow and develop the SAR's economy and encourage tourism. He added that many rugby powerhouses will be playing here in March, including reigning champions New Zealand, Australia and France. As for Team Hong Kong, China, Farndon said they will be competing in the Melrose Claymores contest once again.
