Last weekend marked the Hong Kong Sevens' final chapter at the iconic Hong Kong Stadium. Despite ongoing thunderstorm warnings and intermittent rain, the electric atmosphere remained undiminished over the three days.
The tournament was a spectacular success and epitomized the best Hong Kong has to offer. Some 40,000 exceptionally cheerful and good-natured spectators enjoyed the carnival atmosphere, with great entertainment and high-octane performances from the world's best men's and women's rugby sevens teams.
Overseas visitors were back in force, and most had travelled to Hong Kong expressly to experience the fabled and unique atmosphere the Hong Kong tournament brings to the World Rugby Seven Series competition.
Family members of all ages and nationalities relaxed in a fun-filled stadium while witnessing the sport's leading teams perform.
The kaleidoscope of fancy dress costumes in the South Stand perfectly reflected the party atmosphere reverberating around the stadium, which moved afterwards into other areas as revellers continued into the early hours.
As usual, one of the highlights was the Saturday lunchtime parade of the mini-rugby teams, with players aged between 4 and 12. This was followed by a rousing performance by the reggae group The Wailers, which delighted the audience and had many dancing and singing along to beloved classics.
To the delight of the home supporters, the Hong Kong China men's team triumphed in the inaugural Melrose Claymores tournament, and our women's team reached the final, so there was plenty to celebrate. New Zealand won gold in both the men's and women's events.
Players, coaches, and the entourage following the series from 14 participating nations agree that the atmosphere and experience of participating in the Hong Kong Sevens event is unparalleled.
This is high praise, especially when considering the competition from other host cities for the 2023-24 series: Dubai, Cape Town, Perth, Vancouver, Los Angeles, Singapore and Madrid.
As we look forward to next year's tournament, the new venue in Kai Tak must cultivate a fresh legacy without losing the unique atmosphere and customs that have made Hong Kong the best rugby sevens event in the world.
Bernard Charnwut Chan is the chairman of Tai Kwun Culture & Arts Co Ltd
