A new era of the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens began at Kai Tak Stadium on Friday, winning plaudits from players and supporters alike and with organisers hailing “an exciting new chapter in the tournament’s storied history”.
With 90 per cent of the 47,000 tickets sold, officials said 33,735 fans passed through the gates on the first day, estimating that was around 5,000 more compared with recent years.
And those supporters were not only dazzled by a three-minute light show during the opening ceremony, they got some sparkling rugby too.
But on a day when most things appeared to run smoothly, a lack of taxis, and concession stands inside the stadium running out of food, suggested test events earlier in the year had not been stressful enough.
There was a general feeling of confusion at the area set aside for taxis and ride-sharing services, with police blocking access to private vehicles and drivers unsure of how to get to the pick-up point.
“For an event of this size, on the quietest night, it is very unacceptable because tomorrow [Saturday], it will be worse,” a local, who only identified himself as Patrick, said.
