Friday, 30th March 2007 at 4:47 pm

The Sevens party starts in Hong Kong

Technically, it’s the rugby that everyone’s there for; in reality, though, the party in the stands is the true attraction. The Hong Kong Sevens is one of sport’s must-visit events, providing a weekend of exhilirating rugby, high spirited crowds, and a riot of colour amongst a very animated audience. Does rugby throw a better party? Hell, does any other sport throw a better party?

There’ll be a healthy South African contingent in the middle of all the festivities; a small group of their countrymen, however, will be hoping that they’ll only get to join in the celebrations late on Sunday. Paul Treu’s sevens Springboks are in with a shout at glory this weekend in Hong Kong, the coach having moulded a squad from Super 14 cast-offs and little known players vested with electric pace and loads of flair.

Those characteristics apply to plenty of other players on show, however, which is why the rugby in Hong Kong is always so irresistible, and if you’re in Hong Kong this weekend, you’re in for a cracker. A South African win would be great, and it’s not out of the question, but you get the feeling that whoever walks away with the title, a loud, colourful, beer-swilling audience will be quite happy come Sunday night.