South Africa made history at the Hong Kong Sevens on Sunday after giving Argentina a 35-7 thumping to claim their first-ever title on the tournament’s 50th anniversary.
As over 113,000 fans packed the Kai Tak Stadium over the weekend, the Blitzboks secured the championship while the New Zealand women’s team fended off Australia 19-14 to bag their fourth consecutive Hong Kong crown.
The local crowd had plenty to roar about as the Hong Kong, China men’s side showed serious grit, overcoming yellow cards and an early deficit to down Japan 19-15 and retain the Melrose Claymore.
It was a sentimental Sunday all around, topped off by local icon Salom Yiu Kam-shing being inducted as the 50th member of the Rugby Hall of fame.
The thrilling three-day festival featured world-class rugby, vibrant costumes, live music, and a spectacular fireworks display. More than 100,000 spectators packed into Kai Tak Stadium, including its energetic South Stand, to watch 12 men’s and 12 women’s international teams compete for the championship.
As Hong Kong’s premier sporting event, the Sevens continues to highlight the city’s unique “East-meets-West” spirit and its lasting appeal as a global hub for mega events.
China Daily’s Andy Chong and DJ Clark captured the excitement during the “Best Weekend in the events Capital of Asia”.
— China Daily