Kinsale Launch their Sevens

The Heineken Kinsale Sevens by the Sea will return to the rugby programme in May (3rd-5th) 2002following the cancellation last year due to the outbreak of Foot & Mouth Disease. The tournament, rated as the premier Sevens Festival in Ireland, attracts sides from Fiji, USA, Canada, Germany as well as the home countries, England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

When it was last staged, it attracted over 60 teams and ended in a thrilling final won by Fiji’s South Sea Drifters who defeated London Kiwis. South Sea Drifters have already confirmed their participation in this year’s event but more significantly perhaps is the inclusion of an All Ireland Under 20s Sevens competition sanctioned by the Irish Rugby Football Union.

Speaking at the official launch, Tournament Director, Roan Kitt welcomed the new initiative saying, ” From small beginnings the event continues to go from strength to strength. The announcement of the U 20s Sevens aspect in association with IRFU, coupled with the support we receive from Heineken and our other sponsors underpins the long term outlook for the Kinsale Sevens”.

Stressing the importance of the Festival to the town itself, Kinsale UDC Councillor, Tomas O’Brien, who is also President of Kinsale RFC said, “Heineken Kinsale Sevens is of great importance to the local economy, attracting over 10,000 visitors who bring an injection of 4 million euros.”.

In addition to title sponsors Heineken, support for the event comes from Cantebury of New Zealand, Digifone, The Irish Examiner, Kentz, TV3 and Chorus Sports, with additional support from Kinsale RFC club sponsor, Chris Kay Ltd.

The format for the event includes Senior and Junior Mens tournament, a Womens competition and now the U20 finals.