50th HK Sevens opens with some 30,000 spectators

The annual mega event Hong Kong Sevens returns to Kai Tak Stadium on April 17, marking its 50th anniversary and drawing some 30,000 spectators on its opening day.

The three‑day tournament features 30 teams competing in 72 matches, with more than 100,000 spectators expected to attend.

The opening ceremony featured a dragon dance and a performance by robots, cheerleaders, and singers from South Korea and the Philippines.

Laser projections across the pitch showcased all past participating nations and regions, as well as the names of rugby sevens legends, as part of the 50th anniversary celebration.

On the first day, the Hong Kong team faced Denmark and China. The men’s team secured a 36–14 win over China, while the women’s side staged a comeback to draw 14–14 with Denmark.

Local based rugby fans Heidi Gysler and her husband Andre Gysler have attended  matches in several countries and returned to Kai Tak Stadium for the second consecutive year.

Gysler described this year’s event as noticeably better organised than last year, with more staff on hand to help spectators.

She added that people had seemed quite lost during last year’s tournament, but the experience felt much smoother this time.

“It's a really good atmosphere. The emotion that flows is unbelievable. Everyone is calling, chanting for Hong Kong,” she said.