Gloomy weather can’t take shine off Hong Kong Sevens for visiting rugby fans

The Hong Kong Sevens, the city's signature international sporting event, kicked off its landmark 50th anniversary edition on Friday at the new Kai Tak Stadium. Despite an active amber rainstorm warning and reports of a leaky roof, the festive spirit remained undampened for the 50,000 spectators. Costumed fans, including groups dressed as characters from the film 'Dodgeball,' began filling the renowned party atmosphere of the South Stand as early as 10:30 AM, gearing up for three days of world-class rugby.

First-time visitors to the tournament expressed amazement at the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Stadium, with one Australian fan declaring it superior to any stadium in Australia. The event's opening also indicated that organizational issues from the previous year, notably a significant food shortage fiasco, had been successfully addressed by organizers. The celebratory mood highlighted the event's resilience and its enduring appeal as a major fixture on the global rugby and social calendar.