John Lee delights in joining scrum

Eunice Lam

Hong Kong is back on the international scene, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu declared on the final night of the Cathay Pacific/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens.

"Tens of thousands of people came together to have a good time and shared joy and laughter," he said in an address at the Hong Kong Stadium.

"It is living proof Hong Kong is back on the global stage.

"Local revelers and tourists can mingle and enjoy the energetic city life. Dear friends from around the world, Hong Kong has ushered in a new chapter. The Pearl of the Orient is shining brighter than ever."

Lee and Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po, who arrived together at the stadium at 6.45pm, were maskless as they had drinks with rugby officials during the matches then presented the trophy to the victorious Australian team.

The showcase event also saw other senior officials and their deputies among spectators.

Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki revealed on his Facebook page it was the first time he had watched the Sevens.

And the cheering from the huge crowd reflected people's excitement and pointed to a repeat next year, he added.

Secretary for Security Chris Tang Ping-keung, sporting a temporary tattoo of the Hong Kong flag on his right hand and forgoing a mask at least temporarily, joined in selfies with spectators, though he was booed from the crowd in the South Stand and was the target of shouts "wear a mask."

Tang also remarked on the occasion, saying: "Many international events are coming back, and I found the atmosphere was so nice."

Other administration officials at the stadium included Secretary for Justice Paul Lam Ting-kwok, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau Ying-wah, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung Yun-hung and Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho Wing-yin.

Also maskless while enjoying drinks, Ho said she was delighted to experience a "really good" atmosphere.

"I want to thank the Hong Kong Rugby Union for organizing such a good event for Hong Kong residents," she added.

Commissioner of Police Raymond Siu Chak-yee was there to inspect the security arrangements and talk to the officers before he made his way into the stadium.

As for action on the pitch, hosts Hong Kong were dumped out of a 13th-place playoff by Japan, going down 24-17 in what was veteran winger Salom Yiu Kam-shing's last home Sevens tournament.

As a specially invited team, Hong Kong put up a fight against established sides, notably losing 19-17 to Canada despite tries from Yiu, Russell Webb and Max Woodward.

eunice.lam@singtaonewscorp.com