The Hong Kong Rugby Football Union (HKRFU) today announced the draw and ten international teams taking part in the Cable&Wireless Worldwide Hong Kong Women’s Rugby Sevens 2011.

This year marks the 14th anniversary of the Cable&Wireless Worldwide Hong Kong Women’s Rugby Sevens and the debut of Russia, the Philippines and Chinese Taipei to the tournament.

“Cable&Wireless Worldwide is excited to be sponsoring the Hong Kong Women’s Rugby Sevens for the eighth year running. It is a privilege to be part of one of Hong Kong’s key sporting events. We truly admire the team spirit and dedication to the game demonstrated by the players, which mirrors our commitment to working with our customers as a team for their continued success,” said Nick Lambert, Managing Director, Global Markets, Cable&Wireless Worldwide.

First held in 1997, the Hong Kong Women’s Rugby Sevens has paved the way for the first IRB Women’s Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai (March 2009) and the inclusion of Rugby Sevens in the 2016 Olympic Games. Each year, the tournament draws new international teams to the competitive stage, with Russia, the Philippines and Chinese Taipei taking part in this year’s fight for the Cup.

(L-R) Coach Zanio Yong, Asisstant Coach Andy Yuen and the HKRFU ‘s Ruth Mitchell

“The Philippines’ participation in the Hong Kong Women’s Rugby Sevens is a tribute to the in roads we are making to develop Women’s Rugby in the Asian region. Each year, the region moves from strength-to-strength, with the debut of Malaysia last year, Chinese Taipei and the Philippines this year,” said Ruth Mitchell, HKRFU Director of Development.

“We are delighted to have such a strong representation of international squads. We have only invited sanctioned National teams to this year’s tournament and with no representatives from the Southern Hemisphere this year, the stage is truly set for a battle between East and West.”

The tournament draw took place today (Saturday 12 March 2011)  at King’s Park Sports Ground Club House and the results are:

HKRFU Director of Development Ruth Mitchell with the Hong Kong Women’s Rugby Sevens training squad