For 2010, the Guinness Carrick Sevens organisers have kept with the major changes to the playing side that they introduced last year, which proved to enhance the competitiveness and enjoyment of the weekend:

They are continuing with the knockout format, with teams still guaranteed a minimum of three matches but if you lose as you progress through the early rounds you can still have the opportunity of going on and winning in either the Plate or Bowl competitions.

The winners of the Guinness Open competition, for junior teams, will still be going home with £1,000, with the same amount available for the winners of the Abbey Insurance Ladies Tens.

The prize money for the Manvik Premier competition for senior clubs has increased to a total prize fund of £5,000, while free playing kit is available for the winners of the Kukri Sportswear Under-19s.

On the social side, the tournament is a great way of spending a weekend, with all the skill and speed of Sevens rugby on the field, while off the pitch you can enjoy the festival atmosphere in the beer tents, with a play area for the kids and plenty of parking available on site.

Meanwhile, at night, some of the top bands in Ulster are booked, as the organisers plan to accommodate 900 players and spectators in the Guinness marquee on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.

To help all persons either competing or spectating, Carrick Sevens have gone out of our way to keep the costs low, with accommodation from only £54 for a twin room, beer only £3 a pint and the entry fee still only £50.

Last year, the organisers estimated that over 5,000 spectators enjoyed the event, while the 700 competitors were drawn from across Ireland, Britain and Europe, so the 2010 event is shaping up to be another fantastic weekend.

Anyone interested in entering a team can download an application form from the tournament website or email michael@carricksevens.co.uk.