Axa New Zealand International Sevens Best Yet

8 February 2005

The weekend’s AXA New Zealand International Sevens rugby tournament in Wellington has been dubbed the most successful ever.

Tournament Director Steve Dunbar who’s been involved in all six tournaments hosted in Wellington, said, “This one tops them all. All the elements came together for a fantastic weekend – excellent sport, entertainment, weather and an enthusiastic well-behaved crowd”.

Mr Dunbar said, “The success of this year’s event was also reflected by the considerable increase in Television ratings.”

“With the tournament a sell-out on day one of ticket sales, it’s great to see those that couldn’t be here enjoyed watching the live action on TVNZ”.

“Games were also beamed into 150 million homes in 120 countries in a bid by the International Rugby Board to have the Sevens game added to the Olympics roster.

The World Champion New Zealand team will defend its Commonwealth Games gold medal in Melbourne next year.

The New Zealanders also topped off a weekend of fantastic rugby by wining the Sevens in Wellington for the third time.

Mr Dunbar said “It was a great achievement for the boys to win in front of their home crowd, and I know how special the cheers of 35-thousand fans was for them.

A New Zealand win over a feisty Argentinian side was just one of the highlights. The fans got right behind underdogs Scotland who upset superpower England in their first time here.

And once again the crowd favourite Kenyans delighted. They overcame a gruelling hundred hour travel schedule to win a thrilling clash with Tonga in the Bowl final.”

Steve Dunbar added “For great, sport and entertainment it would be hard to beat this year’s AXA New Zealand International Sevens weekend in Wellington. Now it’s our job to make next year even better.”

ENDS

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