嘉里建設呈獻亞洲最大型冰球賽事 「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」 成年組賽情相當激烈
[2018年4月30日 – 香港]: 由MegaBox 及Mega Ice主辦 —- 嘉里建設呈獻「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」今年迎來80支來自世界各地14個國家或城市的好手，爭奪這亞洲最大型的冰球殊榮。
各青少年組的冠軍已於4月28日順利產生，代表更精彩剌激的成年組賽事一觸即發。今日假比賽場地Mega Ice舉行的成年組開球禮，由香港民政事務局副局長陳積志先生、香港立法會議員(體育、演藝、文化及出版界)馬逢國先生SBS, JP、香港旅遊發展局總幹事劉鎮漢先生、嘉里建設有限公司企業及市場傳訊總監林慧君小姐、MegaBox 總監文靜芝小姐、Mega Ice 高級 經理 黃靜嫺小姐以及一眾參賽國家或城市的駐港領事代表等主禮。
上屆國際A組冠軍Cathay Flyers雖然缺少了上年該組別的「最有價值球員」Sam Wheeler，但分別在上年該組別當選「最佳前鋒」的Jake McDonnell及「最佳守門員」的Jasen Awalt已候命上陣，Cathay Flyers衛冕之路上將面對Flying French、HK Tigers和擁有上屆國際A組「最佳後衛」Max Wendelin鎮守的Nordic Vikings的阻力。
國際B組的Empire Skate今年簽入多名日本兵協助爭標，但是首次參賽的捷克球隊Old Boys Pilsen Indian實力未明，令局勢充滿變數。
擁有多名現役港隊成員的Gold Club同樣要克服擴軍兵分兩路的後的Empire Skate，還有也向外招兵買馬的Hong Kong Hitmen，他們羅致了正在瑞典聯賽第一組別打滾的 Jan Isaksson(瑞典出生的泰國人)和Saskatchewan Midget AAA 冰球聯賽 (Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League)的前Notre Dame Hounds Midget AAA 隊成員Yuyu Kimura ，令亞洲A組更具觀賞性。
女子組方面有首次赴會的新西蘭球隊 Kiwi Ice ，她們要面對各自有多位港腳坐鎮的WIHO Elite、WIHO 和Generation Next的本地隊伍圍攻。
嘉里建設有限公司企業及市場傳訊總監林慧君小姐期待另一週緊湊的冰球賽並說：「我們十分榮幸連續11年冠名贊助『Mega Ice五人冰球賽』，我們每年都藉著賽事與很多老朋友聚舊和結交新相識。場上競爭是運動的主要元素之一，而我們也很珍惜場內外所建立的友誼。」
「Mega Ice五人冰球賽」今年吸引澳洲、北京、捷克、法國、香港、日本、新西蘭、深圳、上海、新加坡、瑞典、泰國、台灣 和武漢等地的冰球精英將爭奪今年各項錦標 。賽事精彩萬分，非常刺激。
賽事自2012年以來一直被確認為「香港品牌」活動之一，繼續肯定賽事的亞洲領導地位和認受性。
今年賽事將再度作網上直播，上週六精選了青少年組Pee Wee A組及Bantam A 組決賽，本週六的三場成人組決賽(國際精英組、國際A組及亞洲精英組) 同樣透過東網體育頻道及 「Mega Ice五人冰球賽」YouTube 頻道作直播。
另外今年將會繼續推出大受歡迎的「 Hockey 5’s紀念郵票」，讓運動迷和集郵迷收藏獨特的本地體育紀念品。公眾可於5月5日在Mega Ice 購買，每套定價為HK$168。
本土手工啤酒heroes beer繼2017年首度合作後，今年再接再厲推出新款冰球主題手工啤酒 – Zamboni Beer。
今年的賽事活動同樣精彩，包括南非航空送出香港往返南非約翰尼斯堡來回機票 (亦接納手機參賽作品)的「凝結 · 瞬間」攝影比賽、九龍香格里拉酒店自助餐券及海洋公園入場門票。現場觀眾及球迷可參加不同的活動和遊戲，例如：啤酒品酒班、 Hockey 5’s 紀念「拍拍手」免費賞及現場有獎問答遊戲，歡迎所有球員及現場觀眾踴躍參與。
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ 「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」)
「賽馬會優秀運動員獎勵計劃」 桌球女將溫家琪到訪慈幼英文學校推廣桌球
早前代表香港遠赴英國出戰2018年世界女子桌球賽的精英運動員溫家琪，今日到訪慈幼英文學校，身體力行推廣桌球運動，並與同學們分享成為全職運動員之路，以及成為世界冠軍的奮鬥經歷。作為前輩的家琪亦即場指導慈幼英文學校的桌球隊代表，協助他們備戰即將舉行的校際英式桌球賽。
溫家琪分享她成為運動員的心路歷程，同學們都全神貫注地留心傾聽。
溫家琪向慈幼英文學校的中一同學傳授桌球基本功。
四位校隊成員與溫家琪切磋球技。
溫家琪接受老師頒贈錦旗，並贈送親筆簽名桌球予學校留念。
溫家琪與慈幼英文學校與同學們大合照。
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ 香港體育學院)
Australia and England top pools after day one of HSBC Singapore Sevens 2018
[SINGAPORE, 28 APRIL 2018]: The HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens lived up once again to its sobriquet of the “Surprise Sevens” as England and Australia upset the formbook to top Pools B and D respectively after day one.
HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series heavyweights Fiji and South Africa continued their impressive runs on this season’s circuit after topping their pools to set up some compelling Cup quarterfinals tomorrow.
Australia impressed on their first outing under new coach Tim Walsh as they toppled Scotland 24-20 in the opener, before turning in the day’s biggest surprise result, beating Commonwealth Games gold medallists New Zealand 19-12 in the preliminaries.
Australia will face another surprise packet in Spain, who reached their second straight cup quarterfinal after achieving the feat in Hong Kong earlier this month.
England beat Kenya, cup finalists in Hong Kong, 28-19, and the USA, 19-14, to set up a cup quarterfinal meeting with Samoa tomorrow at 13.36.
Fiji picked up momentum throughout the afternoon to advance to a cup quarterfinal with New Zealand.
“We were a bit scrappy on times, and not accurate in a couple of areas of the game that we know you have to be to win tournaments like this, but we have been in the past, so there is nothing to panic about. We just lost a bit of focus and concentration at times,” said coach Gareth Baber.
“We’ve come through and scored points well and haven’t conceded a huge amount, and
I thought we showed some good character, especially in that last game [33-5 over Spain]. Spain are a good side. They came out against us in the last two or three minutes but we kept them out and scored the other side, so I need to see more of that tomorrow.”
“I’ve watched them today. New Zealand have done well. They always are going to do well. They got beat by Australia but Australia played very well today. They were at every team they played against and we will have to do a lot of that tomorrow as well against New Zealand,” Baber added.
South Africa coach Neil Powell was also pleased with the way his side progressed through to their quarterfinal against Kenya.
“I’m happy with our performance, especially with how the guys held up in our defensive system. We can definitely make a step up a bit more in attack as I felt that once or twice we had a few unforced errors that lost us ball possession.
Powell was further pleased with the performance of some of his youngsters who appeared in Hong Kong earlier this month.
“I’m pleased that the youngsters backed up their performance from Hong Kong with another good one on day one. Hopefully they can take that into day two,” Powell added.
South Africa will need his tyros to step after losing veterans Kyle Brown and Rosko Specman to injury in the opening round.
“It is a bit of a concern losing Kyle and Rosko, that is a lot of experience for us, but it is a great test and opportunity for the youngsters to put their hands up and show they want to be a part of this team in the future,” Powell added.
Tomorrow’s Challenge Trophy quarterfinals see Japan face Wales, Canada take on France, Scotland play Russia and United States face off again with American rivals Argentina.
The 20,000 square feet FunZone at the 100Plus Promenade provided as much excitement as the fast-and-furious rugby action on the pitch with appearances by The Transformers, Nerf, and My Little Pony bringing big smiles to kids and adults alike.
Spartan Singapore and Strider Bikes gave plenty of opportunities for the energetic youngsters to enjoy a great workout before settling into the arena to enjoy sevens rugby.
Four highly popular local bands – Jack & Rai, Jive Talkin’, Samabamasala, and Too Much Drama – got the fans moving in every corner of the stadium.
Legendary American disco band Village People leads a number of reasons why day two of the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens is not to be missed.
(Source: Elite Step Asia/HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2018)
嘉里建設呈獻亞洲最大型冰球賽事 「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」 青少年組各組冠軍塵埃落定
[2018年4月29日 – 香港]: 由MegaBox 及Mega Ice主辦 —- 嘉里建設呈獻、全亞洲最大型的冰球賽 -「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」青少年組別昨日(4月28日)上演決賽日，在全港唯一符合規格舉辦國際冰球比賽的場地Mega Ice舉行，青少年組賽事由「香港業餘冰球會」冠名贊助。
今屆的Bantam A 及 Pee Wee A 決賽透過東網體育頻道(on.cc)及 「Mega Ice五人冰球賽」YouTube 頻道作網上直播。
昨日率先上演兩場Atom組決賽，Beijing Magic以14:1大勝HKIHA勇奪Atom A組冠軍，Beijing Dragon 則以4:0擊敗Flying Tigers勇奪B組錦標。
HKAIH在Mini Squirt B決賽有神勇演出，以9-4勝出摘桂。International North Stars在 Mini Squirt A與Hong Kong Typhoons Selects Blue Team打至加時，最終前者以2-3飲恨落敗。
Squirt A 決賽，由International North Stars以4-3戰勝Shanghai Warriors高舉冠軍獎盃。Bangkok Warriors力拒HKAIH來犯，以10-1力挫對手奪得 Squirt B冠軍。
International North Stars在Bantam A大部份時間掌控比賽， Ironworks Steelers只能偶爾作出零星反擊，最後前者以 5-0 收納冠軍獎座。International North Stars未能阻止HC Vancouver 3-1的勝果，將Bantam B錦標拱手相讓。
Hong Kong Typhoons Selects Blue Team與International North Stars 在 Pee Wee A 決賽碰頭，最後由International North Stars以3-2險勝摘桂。Bangkok Warriors與 Taipei Poseidon在Pee Wee B 決賽狹路相逢，最後由Taipei Poseidon險勝3-2。
賽事自2012年以來一直被確認為「香港品牌」活動之一，繼續肯定賽事的亞洲領導地位和認受性。
這亞洲龍頭級賽事今年吸引了世界各地14個國家或城市80支球隊競逐青少年組和成年組錦標。
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ 「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」)
Stage set for another showstopping HSBC Singapore Sevens
Curtains raise at 11am for two days of the best in sport, music, and entertainment for fans of all ages as the biggest celebration of rugby in Southeast Asia gets underway
[SINGAPORE, 27 APRIL 2018]: With two days of world-class sport and entertainment on offer, including seven varied entertainment experiences for the price of a single ticket, the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens is returning bigger, better and bolder than ever as rugby sevens gets set to rock the National Stadium this Saturday and Sunday.
While the epic on-pitch rugby action remains the focal point of the two-day extravaganza, ticket holders can get into the spirit of the sevens carnival by immersing themselves in the three-day music festival in-and-outside of the stadium.
American disco legends the Village People will have the fans on their feet with classic hits like Y.M.C.A, Macho Man, and In the Navy at 5:30pm on Sunday, but the singalongs don’t stop there with mini-concerts throughout the weekend from four of Singapore’s hottest local acts.
Fans are encouraged to dress to impress to increase their chances to star in the Dance Cam activations and enjoy their 10 seconds of fame!
The entertainment continues long after the rugby has ended as complimentary shuttle buses will be on hand to take revellers to Clarke Quay where Music After 7s will entertain the crowds well into the night.
Billed as the ‘Family Sevens’ event of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, parents can keep the younger set entertained in the all-new immersive, 20,000 square metre FunZone with interactive experiences throughout the weekend at the 100Plus Promenade on level 3 and OCBC Square.
Three of Hasbro’s most beloved brands, The Transformers, Nerf, and My Little Pony, will make their first ever appearance in the Lion City at the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens, while top international children’s group The Superdudes perform their many hits like ‘Super Thumbs Up’ at the FunZone stage.
Spartan Singapore and Striders Bikes offer the opportunity for the more energetic kids to emulate their rugby heroes by getting physical at their respective activity zones.
The non-stop activities on-and-off-the-pitch can drain even the most passionate and enthusiastic of fans. In order to keep everyone’s energy levels high, the Makan Hub in stadium is offering an array of international and local delicacies and plenty of beverages to keep the vocal chords in good form.
At the heart of it all is 45 heart-stopping rugby matches featuring the world’s top 16 rugby sevens teams battling hammer and tong as the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series calendar comes down to the wire in Singapore, the eighth of ten stops on this year’s circuit.
The drama has been compelling to date with five different winners from the first five events, giving way to 2016 Olympic champions Fiji striking a rich vein of form – winning three of the last four – including the last outing in Hong Kong earlier this month.
The Series calendar has imparted a different feel to this year’s tournament following a break in the action for the Commonwealth Games ahead of Singapore. And now the stage is set for another show-stopping Singapore Sevens…
With Canada and Kenya claiming the first two titles could another ‘Surprise Sevens’ be in store in Singapore?
Not if Series leaders South Africa have anything to say about it. A model of consistency over the last two seasons, the defending Series champions are again in pole position on the table ahead of the weekend’s action. After winning the season opener in Dubai last November, the Blitzbokke have yet to finish outside of the Cup semi-finals in the six ensuing tournaments.
12-time World Series champions New Zealand enter the weekend with momentum after their men’s and women’s teams swept the gold medals at the Commonwealth Games, with the men blanking second placed Fiji to top the podium in Melbourne.
South Africa coach Neil Powell commented on his side’s return to Singapore saying, “It is a different challenge for us now after the Commonwealth Games [where they won bronze]. We just need to keep our focus and make sure that we are bringing into the game what we have been training on back at home.”
Fiji coach Gareth Baber also felt the different circumstances ahead of this weekend’s tournament: “Having come here straight from Fiji for the first time in the two years I have been coaching, it really feels like a standalone tournament, which is unique.
“Last year, we came in on the back of winning Hong Kong, but weren’t able to maintain those performance levels here and that was a disappointment. We’re again coming off a couple of good performances and are just working on keeping our consistency and maintaining our performance levels here.”
This weekend marks the Singapore debut of two coaches whose last memories of the Lion City came as players, with New Zealand’s Clark Laidlaw returning for the first time since playing here for Scotland in 2006.
Laidlaw is joined by Tim Walsh, who led the Australian women’s sevens to Olympic gold in Rio in 2016 and Commonwealth Games silver earlier this month, before taking the reins of the men’s seven for the first time starting this weekend.
Both are looking forward to their first experience inside Singapore’s iconic National Stadium.
“2006 was the last time I was here as a player and I still remember the heat. I’m looking forward to playing inside the new stadium, everyone has said it is really unique so I’m excited to play there,” said Laidlaw.
“The demands of the last few weeks has given most of the teams a chance to try and build depth, which is a must. We’re the same and are excited about having a new group here, with five changes from the Commonwealth Games squad.”
Laidlaw was keen to build on New Zealand’s recent success saying, “We’re all chasing the type of consistency that Fiji and South Africa have done so well to build. That has been lacking a bit for us this year, but we knew coming into the season, with new players and coaches, that it would take a bit of time.
“But our team and our country demand that when we compete we win. It’s easier said than done on this circuit, but the new guys are excited and hopefully they’ll bring added energy on the weekend.”
“The last time I was here was in the old stadium in 2002 I think,” said Walsh, who was keen to get stuck in with the men’s side for his first tournament in charge.
“There’s only way to start something and that’s to just jump right in and get a feel for it. My first impressions are pretty awesome, it’s good to be here and I’m just trying to make the transition as quick and easy as possible. I’m looking forward to the challenge.
“Having the Games at home [Melbourne] and coming here as almost a one-off tournament has helped. Since we were at home we’ve been able to train well and comfortably and our preparations have been good.”
Defending champions Canada are in a different boat, having done it the hard way with the same travelling squad of 14 players on tour playing their third tournament in four weeks – including for the first time this weekend without talismanic former captain John Moonlight who announced his retirement after the Commonwealth Games.
“Its been a challenge,” admitted coach Damian McGrath. “We’ve taken the same players to the party, because that’s the nature of the game in Canada, we don’t have the same strength in depth others do.
“We don’t have the luxury of bringing new players in. We did very well here last season but that was on the back of an injury free year. We’ve had some injuries this year, and suffered a hammer blow with John retiring. It will be the first time in as long as I can remember that he won’t be wearing the red shirt for us.
“So it’s a great challenge for us this weekend and we’re not shirking from it. We’ve been on the road for almost four weeks and this is the culmination of a long trip, but we have been treated royally by everyone here,” added McGrath.
Now the teams will return the favour to the fans as they show off their superb skills and athleticism in contesting the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens crown.
“Welcome to the third edition of the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens,” said Mr. David Lim, Executive Chairman and Managing Director of Rugby Singapore.
“Following months of intense preparation, and the hard work of over 500 staff members and volunteers, we are ready to raise the curtain and wow our fans with a sporting carnival like no other.
“Join us in fancy dress, with your family or mates, and experience the magic of rugby. For those who are not yet fans, we urge you to come and see it for yourself. We guarantee you will be converted by the end of it,” added Mr. Lim.
HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens, named the International Sports Event of the Year at the Singapore Sports Awards in 2016, is stop eight of the 10-leg HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series. Tickets are available at www.singapore7s.sg.
(Source: Elite Step Asia/HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2018)
Fans Ready to Rock, Ruck & Rumble at HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens for the Ultimate Family Sevens Experience
52,000 expected at the state-of-the-art Singapore National Stadium this weekend, a 53% increase compared to 2017
[SINGAPORE, 24 APRIL 2018]: The world’s best rugby sevens teams have arrived in Singapore for the third edition of the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens, which takes place on 28-29 April at the Singapore National Stadium.
With four days remaining to the start of the two-day fiesta of rugby, ticket sales have already outsold last year. 52,000 fans from Singapore and beyond are expected at the stadium this weekend, a 53% increase of compared to last year, with numbers tracking very closely to that of year one.
Family packages, which include access to both days of the tournament for two adults and two youths between the age of 4 and 18, represent 20% of tickets purchased. Kids under 4 enjoy free entry.
Led by reigning HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series champions South Africa, winner of the recent Cathay Pacific / HSBC Hong Kong Sevens Fiji, and Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games gold medallists New Zealand, the 16-team competition will also feature defending champion Canada, and Kenya, who reigned supreme in the inaugural event in 2016.
Billed as the ‘Family Sevens’ of the 10-stop series, the biggest celebration of rugby in Southeast Asia has curated a super fun kids’ entertainment programme as epic as the fast-and-furious action on the pitch.
With appearances by three of the most popular Hasbro brands – The Transformers, Nerf, and My Little Pony – as well as Strider Bikes, and Spartan Singapore activities, and performances by The Superdudes at the FunZone, no parent will have to worry about keeping the kids entertained at the National Stadium.
Music After 7s at Clarke Quay, an initiative led by the Singapore Tourism Board, and in-stadia live music performances headlined by American party anthem band Village People, will guarantee an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for every ticket holder.
What’s more, tournament ambassadors and legends of the sport Ben Gollings, DJ Forbes, Michael Cheika, Stephen Moore, Scott Hastings, and Huriana Manuel will be roving in and around the stadium to meet and greet with fans.
Mr. Toh Boon Yi, Chief of Sport Singapore Institute, Sport Singapore, said:
“We are delighted that the organisers significantly enhanced the value proposition of the event for fans and families. They can surely be captivated by offerings such as the FunZone for kids, and Makan Hub and lifestyle entertainment during the weekend. We would like to call out to all in Singapore to come dressed up in fancy dress and have great fun watching world class rugby as well as having a good time bonding with family and friends.”
Ms Melissa Ow, Deputy Chief Executive, Singapore Tourism Board said:
“The line-up of leisure offerings in the Singapore Sports Hub and the immediate precinct shows why Singapore is an ideal venue for world-class sporting events like the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens. With off-pitch activities like the Music After 7s and other in-stadiaofferings that appeal to fans of all ages, spectators can look forward to a complete family-friendly experience that goes beyond the sporting action.”
Mr. Adam Firth, Chief Commercial Officer of the Singapore Sports Hub added:
“The HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens is one of the biggest sporting events of the year at the Singapore Sports Hub. The rugby extravaganza – a legendary party – brings two amazing days of entertainment across sport, music, and family-friendly activities to theNational Stadium and precinct. This top-tier event is a perfect match for our world-class venue.”
Mr. Eugene Kwek, Head of Marketing, Retail Banking and Wealth Management, HSBC Singapore, commented:
“As a passionate supporter of rugby, and the title sponsor of HSBC World Sevens series, our goal is to help grow the sport and help cultivate the next generation of players. At the grassroots level, we have key initiatives like the HSBC Rugby Festivals aimed at creating more opportunities for young players and women to get involved and develop in the game. Our hope is that together, we can further grow the game at both the professional and grassroots level, and help the sport to thrive for years to come.
Bill Beaumont, World Rugby Chairman said:
“World Rugby is looking forward to returning to Singapore once again to witness the best rugby sevens’ teams in the world battle it out in a fantastic stadium with a family atmosphere.
“Rugby sevens is one of the fastest growing sports in the world, with Asia one of the key growth regions, and I am surethat this weekend’s event will provide another excellent opportunity to inspire the next generation of rugby sevens players and fans.”
Mr. David Lim, Executive Chairman and Managing Director, Rugby Singapore, commented:
“After all the hard work, we have arrived at tournament week of the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens.
“We are very proud to be an important stop on the HSBC World Rugby Series, and our event has returned better, bolder, and better with every edition.
“In addition to the 45 epic games that await us this weekend, we are thrilled to offer all fans a world class music and kids’entertainment programme. Rugby, indeed, does live in Singapore, and we cannot wait to let the world see what we are capable of.”
HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens, named the International Sports Event of the Year at the Singapore Sports Awards in 2016, is stop 8 of the 10-leg HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.
Kenya were surprise first-time winners of the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens in 2016. The 2017 final was an all North American affair as Canada beat the United States 26-19 in a pulsating final.
Tickets are available at www.singapore7s.sg
(Source: Elite Step Asia/HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2018)
香港欖球總會歡迎Waikato Chiefs Taua大學發展隊來港交流
4月21日與備戰「亞洲欖球錦標賽」及「2019年世界盃次輪外圍賽」的港隊切磋
[2018年4月19日，香港]: 香港欖球總會(欖總) 很高興與族長隊(Chiefs Rugby Club)自2015年的戰略合作以來，對方再次派隊來港與香港隊交流。雙方更在2017年簽訂了延續3年的合作協議。
族長隊今次訪港的時間恰到好處，皆因香港隊正全力準備5月及6月的「亞洲欖球錦標賽」，並在主客制下與韓國和馬來西亞角力，這賽事也決定「2019年世界盃次輪外圍賽」的資格誰屬。
今年將是族長隊發展隊第4度來港交流，族長隊成員達馬基(Isaac Te Tamaki)及西蒙臣(Bailey Simonsson) 也有隨隊訪港，他們於本月初代表新西蘭出戰「香港國際七人欖球賽」，並殺入銀盃四強。
今次的活動包括聯合操練和於4月21日在香港足球會與香港隊友賽，族長隊的球員還參與一系列的青少年及小型欖球教室。
「族長隊」高水平經理田渡(Chris Tindall)說: 「今次帶同Waikato Chiefs Taua大學發展隊訪港令人期待，希望能與欖總在欖球發展和提升水平方面達到雙贏。」「這對於我們的球員來說也是寶貴的一課，他們可體驗出外比賽的專業要求和與香港隊交流。球員也可在訪港期間以實際行動和表現打動教練團。」
之前曾隨隊訪港並已擢升為一隊的成員有梳爾史提芬臣(Shaun Stevenson)、莫利(Atu Moli)、保禾特(Liam Polwart)、布朗(Mitchell Brown)、卡泰(Sefo Kautai)、羅斯(Aiden Ross)、杜基(Samisoni Taukei’aho)和劉拿拉(Luteru Laulala)。
田渡續說: 「雙方的合作和訪港團的目的是希望幫助香港隊成員及教練團準備「亞洲欖球錦標賽」及「2019年世界盃次輪外圍賽」，這對於香港欖球而言非常重要。」
香港欖球總會欖球營運總監戴里斯(Dai Rees)先生道：「我們非常歡迎族長隊發展隊第4次訪港，並繼續雙方的合作協定，希望我們能夠持續有良好的欖球發展。」「之前數年合作主要開拓族長隊發展隊球員加盟本地聯賽，並觀察他們的表現及收納數據。希望在未來數年可以有與族長隊發展隊有更緊密合作，令雙方取得雙贏結果。」
戴里斯指最近派遣麥菲史密夫(Callum McFeat-Smith)及潘友謙前往族長隊訓練基地接受為期五星期的訓練，他道：「他們到訪新西蘭的訓練獲益良多，球員到族長隊訓練有助他們的成長。」
「族長隊今次訪港也會有好處，表現優異的球員有機會獲得本地球隊提供合約讓他們在香港聯賽上陣，合作協議將為我們帶來得益。」
曾代表族長隊上陣162次和新西蘭參加「香港國際七人欖球賽」及2008年在港舉行的「比迪素盃」名將馬森(Liam Messam)很贊同這合作模式，他道: 「 香港這彈丸之地充滿欖球熱情，小朋友也很熱忱於欖球運動，這些都是所有欖球層次的基石。我們希望透過這合作與欖總分享我們的知識和經驗，以促進香港欖球的發展。」
「我們可分享欖球技術，並希望我們的風格能透過這合作為香港欖球帶來新衝撃，以及協助球員成長。」「這合作除了推廣欖球運動外，也有利我們培育新人，令我們更加壯大和向外新西蘭欖球。」
「我們的新人們藉此浸淫在不同的欖球環境是珍貴機會，對他們的個人和球員成長之路有利而無害。」
族長隊發展隊前球員唐昇(Josh Dowsing)於2016加盟本地聯賽的蘇格蘭人隊，他今次也會作為族長隊發展隊的後補球員，如有球員受傷便會上披甲面對港隊。
Waikato Chiefs Taua大學發展隊的27名入選球員來自Manukau、Waikato、Bay of Plenty 和Taranaki省。
這陣容新舊球員兼備，包括經驗豐富的史達加(Seb Siataga)，以及剛在意大利完成球季、前新西蘭20歲以下青年軍的端加(James Tucker)，他將擔任此行隊長。
5名上年訪港的球員莊士東(Ayden Johnstone) 、史葛(Joshua Iosefo-Scott)、莫亞(Ajay Lafaele-Mua)、甘寶(Luke Campbell)和蘭修爾(Matthew Landsown)將舊地重遊 。其他成員還有新西蘭學界代表諾里斯(Ollie Norris)、 戴亞(George Dyer)、華亞(Tupou Vaa’I)、度比亞(Quinn Tupaea) 和拿浩路(Kini Naholo)。
隨隊的還有效力日職Kobelco Steelers 隊的華坦拿比(Takayuki Watanabe)、尼斯巴亞舒(Kosuke Nishibayashi)和清水明弘(Akihiro Shimizu)。
賀達(Paul Hodder)是發展隊的主帥兼教練，他的副手分別是前族長隊成員韋特(Nathan White)和現役球員拿尼(Tim Nanai) 。
Waikato Chiefs Taua大學發展隊訪港名單:
前鋒: 莊士東(Ayden Johnstone) (Waikato), 諾里斯(Ollie Norris) (Waikato) 史葛(Joshua Iosefo-Scott), 華坦拿比(Takayuki Watanabe), 戴亞(George Dyer), 馬卡(Donald Maka) , 史達加(Seb Siataga), 尼斯巴亞舒(Kosuke Nishibayashi), 端加(James Tucker) (captain), 卡迪(Sam Caird), 華亞(Tupou Vaa’I), 雲達賀夫(Stan Van der Hoven), 羅高度(Fotu Lokotui),祖莊臣 Joe Johnson, 莫亞(Ajay Lafaele-Mua).
後衛: 甘寶(Luke Campbell), 迪奧提(Isaac Te Aute), 韋迪(Daniel Waite), 清水明弘(Akihiro Shimizu), 蘭修爾(Matthew Landsown), 度比亞(Quinn Tupaea), 尼高(Nigel Ah Wong), 富尼斯(Sam Furniss), 達馬基(Isaac Te Tamaki), 戴偉(Mosese Dawai), 拿浩路(Kini Naholo), 西蒙臣(Bailey Simonsson).
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ HKRU)
FORMULA E DRIVERS AND BILLY MONGER TO HELP RAISE FUNDS FOR CHARITY WITH ELECTRIC KART RACE IN PARIS
Jean-Eric Vergne to organise charity race to raise awareness of newly-formed FIA Disability and Accessibility Commission
‘I AM PROUD THAT THE FORMULA E GRID IS CONTINUING TO TAKE THE INITIATIVE WITH THIS EVENT TO SHOW THEIR SUPPORT FOR THE NEWLY-FORMED FIA DISABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY COMMISSION.’
Alejandro Agag
Founder & CEO of Formula E
PARIS, FRANCE (April 18, 2018) – Some of the stars competing in the ABB FIA Formula E Championship will get behind the wheel of electric karts alongside Billy Monger to raise funds and awareness for disabled aspiring drivers looking to make it into motorsport.
Taking place ahead of the Qatar Airways Paris E-Prix at the RKC karting track outside of Paris on April 25, the race has been organised by current championship leader Jean-Eric Vergne – with the support of the newly-established FIA Disability and Accessibility Commission and its President Nathalie McGloin.
Monger – who lost both his legs in an accident last year – wasn’t able to attend last year’s event due to his injuries. Since then the young British driver has made a remarkable recovery and will participate in the race using a specially modified kart.
The funds raised will be donated to the charity Spinal Track, which gives disabled drivers an avenue back into racing. To donate and show your support – click here
Alejandro Agag, Founder & CEO of Formula E, said: “I’m proud that the Formula E grid is continuing to take the initiative with this event to show their support for the newly-formed FIA Disability and Accessibility Commission. Also, it’s fantastic to see Billy will be joining us in Paris – I think he’ll give our drivers a hard time on track! I’d also like to thank Jean-Eric Vergne for putting the race together and helping to raise funds as a collective group for such a great cause.”
Jean-Eric Vergne, current championship leader and TECHEETAH driver, said: “Less than 12 months after his crash, Billy returned to single-seater racing using a specially-adapted car and finished third on his first race back. This outstanding news proved to us all that no one should ever give up on his or her dream – and that if we all stand and work together we can make a difference. We make the impossible possible and we can motivate others to follow the same path. Billy will come and race with us at RKC – my karting track on the outskirts of Paris – for the #BillyWhizz charity kart race on April 25. I’d also like to give special thanks to SODIKART, who has built 25 electric karts for this occasion.”
In addition to building on the success of his recent podium finish and seeking to secure sponsorship for the remainder of the season, Monger is also supporting the UK-based charity Spinal Track – who give disabled drivers the opportunity to experience their first-ever track or rally days in bespoke cars.
Monger is looking to offer his own expertise to other disabled drivers through instructing at events, as he makes plans to gain his ARDS licence. He added: “I’d love to give back to the motorsport community and this is a great way to do this. It’ll be a great experience for me, as I plan the next stage of my career to instruct other racing drivers in single-seaters and saloon cars – once I have my ARDS instructors licence.”
To follow the latest news and information, visit – www.FIAFormulaE.com
(Source: FIA Formula E)
嘉里建設呈獻亞洲最大型冰球賽事 「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」 各路雄師擴軍爭標
[2018年4月17日 – 香港]: 由MegaBox 及Mega Ice主辦 —- 嘉里建設呈獻「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」今年有約80支來自世界各地14個國家或城市的高手，角逐這亞洲最大型冰球賽的各項錦標。
一眾冰球猛將將於4月23日至5月5 日盛裝出席全港最大和唯一符合規格舉辦國際冰球比賽的場地 – Mega Ice，力爭皇者榮譽。
今年戲碼強勁，以香港隊成員為主要班底的Gold Club、積極招兵買馬的HK Hitman 和Hong Kong Tigers外，還有簽下多位日本職業聯賽猛將協助爭標的Empire Skate，事隔兩年再有法國和日本的球隊參賽(分別是Flying French和 Tokyo Egoists)、以及處子亮相的東歐力量Old Boys Pilsen Indians(捷克)等等。國際 Elite組的賽事, 龍爭虎鬥, 賽事將會非常緊張。
女子組方面有首次赴會的新西蘭球隊 Kiwi Ice ，她們要面對各自有多位港腳坐鎮的WIHO Elite、WIHO 和Generation Next的本地隊伍圍攻。
其他參賽者來自澳洲、北京、上海、深圳、新加坡、瑞典、台灣、泰國和武漢，共約1,600名冰球精英將爭相登上皇者寶座 。
賽事自2012年以來一直被確認為「香港品牌」活動之一，繼續肯定賽事的亞洲領導地位和認受性。
青少年組及成年組比賽分別於4月23日至28日及4月30日至5月5日期間舉行，青少年組賽事由香港業餘冰球會冠名贊助。兩場青少年組決賽(Pee Wee A 組及Bantam A組)、三場成人組決賽(國際 Elite組、國際A組及亞洲Elite組) ，更會作網上直播，廣大球迷隨時隨地透過東網體育頻道(on.cc)、「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」YouTube 頻道及Facebook直播收看。
另外今年將會繼續推出大受歡迎的「 Hockey 5’s紀念郵票」，讓運動迷和集郵迷收藏獨特的本地體育紀念品。公眾可於4月23日及5月5日在Mega Ice 購買，每套定價為HK$168。
今屆賽事在早前舉行冰球設計比賽，冠軍得主陳潤輝在現場向公眾分享設計靈感，他以「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」的主題「Just Play」為創作意念，並將球桿及冰球融合在「Just Play」上，加上擊球動作以加強冰球的快速感覺。
今年的賽事活動同樣精彩，包括南非航空送出香港往返南非約翰尼斯堡來回機票 (亦接納手機參賽作品)的「凝結 · 瞬間」攝影比賽、九龍香格里拉酒店自助餐券及海洋公園入場門票。現場觀眾及球迷可參加不同的活動和遊戲，例如：啤酒品酒班、 Hockey 5’s 紀念「拍拍手」免費賞及現場有獎問答遊戲，還有新進軍香港市場的瑞典品牌”Stiga桌上冰球機”，將會在星期六(28/4)的青少年組賽事舉行試玩，歡迎所有球員及現場觀眾踴躍參與。
球員除了各為其主爭標，亦會為個人榮譽而戰，JOHAN & JOHAN (Hong Kong) Ltd 亦會向各組青少年組別的最佳守門員送出 ”Stiga桌上冰球機”，Empire Skate 也會向各組別的「最有價值球員」送出冰球裝備。
MegaBox總監文靜芝小姐於記者招待會上很高興宣佈第11屆賽事如箭在弦，吸引各地老朋友和新面孔前來參與，她表示︰「Mega Ice很高興連續11年舉辦這亞洲最大型冰球賽事，我們每年努力為賽事新元素，務求令球員、球迷和觀眾享受新體驗。今年將與heroes beer合辦啤酒品酒班，並會繼續有『凝結 · 瞬間』攝影比賽。」
她續道：「我們繼續與heroes beer合作推出冰球主題(Zamboni Beer)的本土手工啤酒，其獨特味道及特色啤酒罐，加上廣受好評的賽事版郵票和首次公開設計的賽事專用冰球，相信這些將成為運動愛好者的『必買手信』。我們相信這些新意有助鞏固『Mega Ice五人冰球賽』 作為亞洲最大型冰球賽事的地位，亦有助推廣冰球運動, 帶動香港旅遊及零售業， 預計兩週賽事將會為商場帶來可觀人流和營業額。」
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ 「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」)
New Zealand looking to turn Commonwealth Games gold into HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens glory
(Singapore, 17 April 2018): New Zealand will be looking to turn Commonwealth Games gold into HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens glory when World Rugby HSBC Sevens Series action returns to the iconic Singapore National Stadium from April 28-29.
A 14-0 Commonwealth Games victory over arch-rivals Fiji secured the All Blacks Sevens the gold medal – the nation’s fifth gold since rugby sevens was introduced into the event in 1998.
The New Zealanders had decided to focus on the Gold Coast event with their senior squad, instead sending a development squad to the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series’ last leg in Hong Kong.
But New Zealand will be back at full-strength and raring to shift their World Series campaign into overdrive in Singapore.
At present the Kiwis sit in third place in the standings on 107 points, behind World Series leaders South Africa (126) and second-placed Fiji (123) – and they must put the results on the board if they are a chance to add to their record 12 World Series titles.
“There’s been a lot of criticism around the team the past few years but that just goes to show what the team is really capable of,” said former skipper and HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens ambassador DJ Forbes.
Forbes is no stranger to Commonwealth Games success having won gold and silver in the quadrennial games during an illustrious sevens career for New Zealand.
“Now the World Series is the platform to put some things together with the Rugby World Cup Sevens coming up also [in July]. I was stoked to see them get the job done. There’s not many teams that can hold Fiji to nil.”
It was a late call-up to the Games squad in Etene Nanai-Seturo who set the Kiwis on their path to gold, with Regan Ware scoring the other try in the final.
Both will hoping to figure in Singapore but New Zealand also showed their strength in depth in making it to the Cup semi-finals with a less experienced squad in Hong Kong so there is plenty of competition for places in the touring side.
New Zealand have drawn Pool D with Scotland, Australia and Wales in Singapore.
“It’s been good to see some of those young boys turning the page,” said Forbes.
“We’ve had a few injuries and then decisions to make on who to rest for the Commonwealth Games so credit to management for giving everyone a run. It goes without saying that whoever gets the nod to do the job in Singapore is capable of doing it.”
Forbes said he was excited to return to Singapore at the end of the month and was looking forward to the action ahead.
“Singapore has got a real good balance of family atmosphere and the sport on show,” said Forbes.
“It’s great if you can get the kids down and maybe they can see something that inspires them to play.”
Fiji sent the same squad to the Commonwealth Games that had run out 24-12 victors over Kenya in the Cup final in Hong Kong and they will now be focused on brushing aside the disappointment of that loss in the gold medal game – and building on a run of form that has seen them win the past two legs of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, and three of its past four.
The Fijians have drawn Pool A in Singapore alongside Spain, Russia and Japan.
Bronze in the Commonwealth Games went to England with a 21-14 win over South Africa.
The English have drawn Pool B in Singapore alongside Kenya, the United States and France, while the series-leading South Africans feature in a Pool C that includes Argentina, last year’s surprise Singapore champions Canada and Samoa.
(Source: Elite Step Asia/HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2018)
BMW I INCREASES TIES WITH ABB FIA FORMULA E CHAMPIONSHIP AS RACE TITLE PARTNER IN BERLIN
BMW i steps up close co-operation with ABB FIA Formula E Championship putting its name to the race in Berlin on May 19
‘THE RACE IN BERLIN HAS FEATURED ON THE CALENDAR EVERY SEASON AND WE HAVE BEEN WORKING CLOSELY ALONGSIDE BMW I FOR EQUALLY AS LONG, SO IT IS PLEASING TO SEE THEIR GROWING COMMITMENT TO THE ABB FIA FORMULA E CHAMPIONSHIP.’
Alejandro Agag
Founder & CEO of Formula E
BERLIN, GERMANY (April 16, 2018) – BMW i has today confirmed it’s set to increase its ties with the ABB FIA Formula E Championship as the race title partner of the BMW i Berlin E-Prix on May 19.
As well as being the official vehicle partner of the series, the German manufacturer is also putting its name to their home race on the return of Formula E to Tempelhof Airport later next month. The E-Prix in Berlin will feature the BMW i brand for multiple seasons – again showing the long-standing support of BMW i to the re-invention of sustainable mobility.
Alejandro Agag, Founder & CEO of Formula E, said: “The race in Berlin has featured on the calendar every season and we’ve been working closely alongside BMW i for equally as long, so it’s pleasing to see their growing commitment to the series. BMW i has always been supportive of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship since the very beginning – both as official vehicle partner and now as the race title partner of the BMW i Berlin E-Prix. I’m looking forward to seeing the fans showing up in force for what I’m sure will be another scintillating spectacle at Tempelhof Airport.”
“The title partnership for the German round of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship in Berlin is a key component of our extensive commitment to this series,” said Jörg Reimann, Vice President BMW Brand Experience. “For BMW, the opportunity to actively shape the event and offer visitors a unique BMW brand experience is always at the heart of this kind of co-operation. That is precisely what we will be doing at the BMW i Berlin E-Prix alongside Formula E.”
(Source: FIA Formula E)
Fijians gunning for three straight tournament titles when action heats up at HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens
[SINGAPORE, 16 APRIL 2018]: Olympic champions Fiji will have their sights set on three tournament victories in a row when they line up for the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens at the Singapore National Stadium from April 28-29.
The Fijians have drawn a Pool A that will pit them against Spain, Russia and Japan during the early exchanges in Singapore.
Baber has the islanders firing on all cylinders after winning the Vancouver and Hong Kong legs of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.
He brings his charges to the Lion City looking to overtake rivals South Africa at the head of this season’s series standings.
Fiji currently sit second on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series standings on 123 points behind leaders South Africa (126) and were seen at their very best last time out in Hong Kong where they defeated Kenya 24-12 in the Cup final.
That followed a 31-12 victory over the same team in Vancouver in March and those results show the Fijians are hitting top form at the right time now with just three legs of the World Series to go this season.
Fiji are among the nations now on Australia’s Gold Coast for the Commonwealth Games sevens tournament from April 13-15.
Baber takes the same squad from the weekend – while some nations rested senior players – but the coach said Fiji had come through Hong Kong unscathed.
Fiji likely won’t have things all their own way in Singapore, having drawn a side in Spain who were among the surprise packets in Hong Kong – beating both Canada and Australia in pool play – and World Rugby invited team Japan, who won the World Sevens Series Qualifier in Hong Kong and will now be looking forward to life back among the elite full-time in the 2018-19 season.
While Fiji sent a full strength squad to Hong Kong, the South Africans were among a number of nations to send development squads to that tournament, saving the more senior players for action at the Commonwealth Games.
It’s a reflection of just how strong sevens rugby is in South Africa that they still came third in Hong Kong.
Now back to full strength, the Blitzbokke will look to maintain their lead in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, having drawn a tough-looking Pool C that also features Argentina, Canada and Samoa.
Canada were the surprise winners in Singapore last year – beating the USA 26-19 in the final – while Argentina will come to town having made two finals this season already, in Cape Town and Las Vegas.
Kenya just found the Fijians too good on the day in Hong Kong but are also in red-hot form, having made the final also in Vancouver. They’ll be desperate to breakthrough at a tournament they won themselves back in 2016 and will line up in Pool B against the USA, France and England.
Rounding out the action in Singapore will be a Pool D that boasts 12-time HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series winners New Zealand – currently third in the standings and needing to rise to the occasion if they are to threaten the leaders this season – along with Scotland, Australia and Wales.
(Source: Elite Step Asia/ HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2018)
BIRD HOLDS OFF LATE CHARGE FROM RIVALS TO TAKE VICTORY IN ROME
Bird reduces deficit to 18 points over championship leader Vergne with assured drive under pressure in Italian capital
‘I SIT HERE VERY PROUD TO BE THE WINNER OF THE FIRST-EVER ROME E-PRIX. THE CROWD WAS AMAZING AND EVERYBODY LOOKED LIKE THEY WERE HAVING FUN.’ Sam Bird, DS Virgin Racing
ROME, ITALY (April 14, 2018) – Sam Bird held his nerve in the closing laps of the CBMM Niobium Rome E-Prix presented by Mercedes EQ and fended off multiple attacks from both Lucas di Grassi and Mitch Evans to etch his name in the history books as the first-ever winner on the streets of the Italian capital.
The DS Virgin Racing driver pumped his fist in the air as he crossed the finish-line to complete an assured drive under mounting pressure – from not one, but two drivers – as the laps counted down in the inaugural race in Rome.
Bird defended his position at the head of the field with Evans and di Grassi looming large in his mirrors. Making a slight mistake, Bird opened the door to Evans who swerved into the slipstream of the now seven-time E-Prix winner down the hill approaching Turn 9. The Panasonic Jaguar Racing driver tried to make a move on the outside with smoke pouring from his tyres, but to no avail as Bird kept his cool.
Di Grassi reeled Bird back in to heighten the tension in the final laps, but it wasn’t enough to deter Bird who picked-up his first win since the season-opener in Hong Kong. The result vaults the Brit to within striking distance in second place in the standings – 18 points adrift of table-topper Jean-Eric Vergne.
Despite picking-up maximum points for first place, it wasn’t a guaranteed victory from the start as Felix Rosenqvist retired from the front mid-way through the race and gifted Bird the lead. The super Swede led away from Julius Baer pole position and looked to be in control after the car swaps, but Rosenqvist pulled over to the side of the track with broken left-rear suspension.
After a faultless day up to that point, Rosenqvist seemed on course to close the gap on Vergne at the top of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship, but it was to be Bird who would reduce the deficit.
Rosenqvist now sits 37-points behind Vergne following technical problems in Mexico and salvaging points in damage limitation mode in Uruguay. The Mahindra Racing driver will need to turn it around in Paris, but as Bird has proved – one race can change the outlook of the championship.
Another race and another second place for reigning champion Lucas di Grassi. The Brazilian has been so close on the previous two occasions – going bumper-to-bumper with Vergne in a nail-biting finish in Punta del Este and now hunting down Bird in front of thousands of raucous Roman fans.
With more usable energy after stopping one lap later, Andre Lotterer closed in on the leading trio – making it a four-horse race. The TECHEETAH driver fought hard to steal third place from Mitch Evans and almost exchanged blows through the tight section alongside the Obelisco di Marconi. It’s Lotterer’s second podium in Formula E in only his seventh race.
It was heartbreak in the end for Evans as the New Zealander still has to wait to stand on the podium in Formula E – having missed out on the opportunity previously. The heat of battle left Evans without enough energy and he limped home across the line in ninth.
Daniel Abt made his way through to fourth from ninth on the grid and earned the extra point for Visa fastest lap, with championship leader Vergne coming home in fifth. The Frenchman struggled during the opening stint after being hit from behind by Alex Lynn and losing his rear wheel guard. Lynn mounted the back end of Vergne’s car and was lucky not to completely remove his rear wing and force the TECHEETAH driver into making an unplanned pit stop.
Season two champion Sebastien Buemi couldn’t maintain his starting position as di Grassi used FANBOOST to make a move on his rival and former nemesis. The power of the fans left the Renault e.dams driver helpless to defend with Buemi eventually coming home in sixth place.
Jerome D’Ambrosio could barely see the start-lights from 18th on the grid, but drove a controlled and consistent race to make up over 10 places to secure seventh position. Maro Engel took the chequered flag in eighth with Evans and Venturi team-mate Edoardo Mortara rounding-out the top-10. Home hero Luca Filippi recovered from a four car pile-up – including Mortara, team-mate Oliver Turvey and Nick Heidfeld – to finish in 13th.
With the first race of the European leg coming to a close, Formula E heads to the French capital for the third edition of the Qatar Airways Paris E-Prix on April 28 – round eight of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship.
(Source: FIA Formula E)
MODIS GEARS UP AS OFFICIAL PARTNER FOR FORMULA E
Global leader in professional IT, engineering and life science solutions to support development of Formula E with expertise in IT and engineering
‘WITH EXPERTISE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS, I LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH THE SUPPORT OF MODIS TO CONTINUE TO ATTRACT THE VERY BEST ENGINEERS TO THE ABB FIA FORMULA E CHAMPIONSHIP.’ Alejandro Agag, Founder & CEO of Formula E
ROME, ITALY (April 13, 2018) – Formula E has today confirmed that Modis – the leading experts in IT, engineering and life science solutions – will help drive first-class performance and ground-breaking technological innovation as an official partner of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship.
Announced on the eve of the first-ever Formula E race in Rome on April 14 – the new partnership will connect the world’s brightest talent in engineering and technology with the electric street racing series.
The agile end-to-end solutions of Modis will empower Formula E to deliver world-beating performance and continuous innovation in electric vehicle technology. The high-quality specialists will support the development and emerging success of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship as the official partner for professional staffing and solutions for IT and engineering.
Alejandro Agag, Founder & CEO of Formula E, said: “As a championship and workforce continuing to grow on a global scale, I’m delighted to welcome Modis as our latest official partner. With expertise in information technology and engineering solutions, I look forward to working with the support of Modis to continue to attract the very best engineers to the ABB FIA Formula E Championship.”
“Formula E and Modis co-exist at the cutting-edge of innovation and performance. Modis will connect the best talent in IT and engineering with the exciting possibilities of e-mobility to ignite the next chapter in motor racing,” said the Adecco Group CEO Alain Dehaze. “We look forward to helping Formula E and the e-mobility industry grow rapidly as we work together to power a more sustainable global economy.”
(Source: FIA Formula E)
Enel expands partnership with Formula E as official smart charge technology partner and official power partner
Enel renews commitment to Formula E providing fast-charging technology to power next generation cars from season five
Round 5 – Mexico City ePrix. Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Mexico City, Mexico. Saturday 3 March 2018.
‘THE ABB FIA FORMULA E CHAMPIONSHIP IS ABOUT PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF WHAT’S POSSIBLE IN THE FIELD OF ELECTRIFICATION AND WORKING WITH PARTNERS SUCH AS ABB AND ENEL WITH THEIR FAST-CHARGING TECHNOLOGY IS HELPING US TO DRIVE INNOVATION ON A GLOBAL SCALE WITH A LASTING LEGACY.’ Alejandro Agag, Founder & CEO of Formula E
ROME, ITALY (April 12, 2018) – Formula E has today announced that Enel is expanding its partnership as official smart charge technology partner and official power partner of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship.
Implementing innovative fast-charging technology from next season, Enel will supply the technology, products and services for charging the next generation of Formula E cars from season five and beyond.
The news was revealed today by Alejandro Agag, Founder & CEO of Formula E, and Francesco Venturini, Head of Enel X – the Enel division dedicated to innovative products and digital solutions – at the Palazzo dei Congressi in Rome.
With the Gen2 car boasting almost double the energy storage capacity than the current iteration, the futuristic new-look Formula E car will be able to complete a full race distance without making a mid-race car swap. The new superchargers provided by Enel will have the capacity of 80kW – enough to fully-charge the new specification of battery in under an hour.
Alejandro Agag, Founder & CEO of Formula E, said: “It’s fitting to announce the expansion and extension of our successful partnership with Enel at their home race in Rome, so close to their headquarters. The ABB FIA Formula E Championship is about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the field of electrification and working with partners such as ABB and Enel with their fast-charging technology is helping us to drive innovation on a global scale with a lasting legacy. Motorsport is about timing – beating the stopwatch and your competitors. This pursuit for speed is also required when powering and charging your car – both at the track, on the streets and at home in the future.”
Francesco Venturini, Head of Enel X, added: “Three years after we launched this partnership between Enel and Formula E, today’s announcement of the extension and expansion of our partnership is another step forward in the work we’re doing in the field of electric mobility. Thanks to our charging technology and our Superchargers at each event, the new increased capacity and more efficient next generation Formula E cars will be charged and ready to run the entire race distance. Enel’s Formula E partnership underscores our Group’s commitment to promote the advancement of electric mobility at a global level, furthering our research, development and implementation of innovative technology solutions for sustainable transportation.”
(Source: FIA Formula E)
Village People Confirmed as Headline Music Act at the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2018
Local favourites complete line-up of electrifying in-stadia music festival while Clarke Quays presents Music After 7s to keep fans entertained into the night
(Singapore, 11 April 2018): American disco group, Village People, has been announced as the headline entertainment act at the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens at the National Stadium on 28-29 April. Popular local performers – Jack & Rai, Jive Talkin’, Sambamasala, and Too Much Drama are also featured in the action-packed music programme to Rock, Ruck, and Rumble with 55,000 fans from across the world.
Famed for their on-stage costumes, catchy tunes and lyrics, Village People has entertained millions for four decades with their instantly recognisable dance hits such as “Y.M.C.A”, “Go West” and “In the Navy”, which have the power to convince even the most reluctant to get up and boogie the night away.
Adapting to a more electronic and soulful music style with their recent releases, the US band will put a smile on every face in the stadium at the biggest celebration of rugby in Southeast Asia when they perform their biggest hits late Sunday afternoon, before the Cup third and fourth place play-off.
Leading Local Acts to Rock, Ruck, and Rumble with Fans at the Fun Zone
Fans of Singapore’s music scene are in for a treat too as four of the most popular homegrown acts – Jack & Rai, Jive Talkin’, Sambamasala, and Too Much Drama – will get up-close-and-personal with fans at the FunZone at the 100PLUS Promenade with live performances throughout the two tournament days.
Formed in 2002, acoustic rock act Jack & Rai’s easy-going and engaging natures make any audience feel right at home when watching them. The duo has performed at a plethora of venues in Singapore, Southeast Asia, China, Australia and the US, and were Elle Magazine’s Musicians of the Year in 2009.
Veteran band Jive Talkin’ has had decades of great success, having performed with some of the world’s most famous music makers including B.B. King, Kenny G, Gloria Estefan & the Miami Sound Machine, James Ingram and Def Leppard. The versatile band has a very wide repertoire and can perform anything from old time Rock ‘n’ Roll to the current Pop-Rock, Soul, Reggae, R&B, and even Alternative Rock, always leaving fans wanting more.
Samba Masala is Singapore Management University’s (SMU) resident Afro-Brazillian percussion band. Formed in 2004, the band has wowed audiences worldwide as an esteemed batucada with a unique blend of dynamic beats and vibrant stage performances that promises to leave audiences awestruck and spellbound.
Too Much Drama is a 7-piece multilingual band that plays funk, metal, disco, and everything else in between in English, Mandarin, Hokkien, Cantonese, Thai and Korean.One of the resident bands at Switch by Timbre, Too Much Drama, Too Much Drama has performed at the Esplanade Waterfront for Celebrating December 2013, participated in Poetry of Song 2013, and were featured on Toggle TV.
David Lim, Chairman of Rugby Singapore, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to have Village People headlining the music line up at this year’s HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens. This iconic band needs no introduction and their music is the perfect fit with the carnival atmosphere we are creating at the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens. Together with Jack & Rai, Jive Talkin’, Sambamasala, and Too Much Drama, there is something for every fan in the stadium. With the fantastic programme of rugby, music, and kids’ entertainment, the Singapore Sevens is indeed back bigger, better, and bolder!”
There will also be stadium singalong karaoke-style and dance cam activations as 15 catchy tunes to be played are being voted for by fans through a Facebook contest. Votes are currently being counted and the 15 winning numbers will be announced in the coming days. Thanks to principal partner, HSBC, fans can also listen to the playlist on Spotify in the days leading up to the tournament to get them in the mood
Music After 7s 2018
Music would also be in the air even before play begins, as the Music After 7s returns at Clarke Quay on Friday 27th April, a day before the tournament starts, to get the party started.
Featuring some of Clarke Quay’s best local and regional bands, the three-night music festival will kick off with Celtic band Gan Ainm, who has built up an extensive repertoire of Irish and Top 40s covers over the last fourteen years playing at McGettigan’s. On Saturday (28 April), rock bands Sterofly and Sepia – who both play at Highlander Clarke Quay – will take to the stage to entertain fans with their renditions of various rock genres. The festival closes out on Sunday night (29 April) with Paulaner Clarke Quay’s Singaporean-Ukranian band Rockweller, who would drop tunes influenced by a range of genres from glam rock to heavy metal and even punk.
At the Music After 7s, HSBC Singapore Rugby 7s ticket-holders can enjoy various F&B promotions throughout Clarke Quay. There will also be a free shuttle bus service from the National Stadium to Clarke Quay for fans on both Saturday and Sunday evenings.
On-Pitch Rugby Action and Other Highlights
With 45 fast-and-furious games played by the world’s top 16 rugby sevens teams, the on-pitch action is guaranteed to keep every fan on the edge of their seats. The carnival atmosphere at HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens is like no other, and with a family-oriented Fun Zone, children will be entertained just as much as the hardcore rugby fans.
What’s more, the first ever Singapore Rugby Carnival offers ticket holders promotional offers at dozens of establishments across the city across a wide range of eateries, retail outlets, entertainment hotspots, and tourist attractions until 30 April 2018.
Rugby-themed activations will make their way around Singapore at various weekends until the event to offer members of the public a taste of the sport and enjoy an array of fun activities, access discounted tickets and redemption for existing tickets, and a chance to meet rugby legends and celebrities.
Jean Ng, Director, Sports, Singapore Tourism Board, said: “The fringe offerings around the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens like Music After 7s – which falls under the Singapore Rugby Carnival – would add another dimension to the fan experience this year. Together with Singapore’s eclectic mix of vibrant dining and family-friendly lifestyle options, visiting fans can expect a unique, all-round experience beyond the world-class sporting action.”
HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens, International Sports Event of the Year at the Singapore Sports Awards in 2016, is stop 8 of the 10-leg HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series. 16 of the world’s top teams will be in town, including defending champion Canada, as well as the traditional powerhouses Fiji, New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia.
Kenya were surprise first-time winners of the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens in 2016. The 2017 final was an all North American affair as Canada beat the United States 26-19 in a pulsating final. Tickets are available at www.singapore7s.sg.
(Source: Elite Step Asia/ HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2018)
香港精英運動員齊撐DSE考生
香港賽馬會慈善信託基金冠名贊助優秀運動員獎勵計劃 (計劃) 向在六大運動會中表現傑出的香港運動員頒發獎金。
一眾香港精英運動員拍攝短片齊撐DSE考生，並向考生分享讀書心得，支持他們能夠摘取5**。
1) 歐鎮銘及陳浩鈴 (壁球)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LoXtHovZ1Zgml6AJVWl6qmi7bfxM96qR/view?usp=sharing
2) 吳安儀、溫家琪及葉蘊妍 (桌球)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SYXeuJ9DnQyFjch4TWl-s3Y4tIF3ZtGy/view?usp=sharing
3) 李浩賢及廖梓苓 (壁球)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KDHnHUcTUcc5HBJdbWroLUDMihuFcKWM/view?usp=sharing
4) 江旻憓及張楚瑩 (劍擊)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1o-BCcoI9PXKAcjEgu59Fj9F2TD9jgIe5/view?usp=sharing
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ 影片來源：香港體育學院 )
FORMULA E VISITS HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS AT THE VATICAN AHEAD OF INAUGURAL RACE ON STREETS OF ROME
His Holiness Pope Francis welcomes Formula E drivers to the Eternal City for the first-ever E-Prix in Rome on April 14
HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS BLESSING THE FULLY-ELECTRIC FORMULA E CAR STANDING ALONGSIDE ALEJANDRO AGAG AND ALBERTO LONGO. Credit: Vatican Media
ROME, ITALY (April 11, 2018) – His Holiness Pope Francis today welcomed a selection of drivers competing in the ABB FIA Formula E Championship to his residence in Santa Marta ahead of the first-ever E-Prix on the streets of Rome on April 14.
Alongside Founder & CEO of Formula E Alejandro Agag – as well as ACI President Angelo Sticchi Damiani – the drivers, team representatives and the official championship car were given a private Apostolic Blessing before attending the papal audience.
Over half the grid and the fully-electric Formula E car made the short trip to Vatican City, prior to the inaugural race in the Italian capital on Saturday for the CBMM Niobium Rome E-Prix presented by Mercedes EQ – round seven of the 2017/18 ABB FIA Formula E Championship.
(Source: FIA Formula E)
香港五月主辦ASTC三項鐵人青年亞洲錦標賽2018
［2018年4月10日，香港］ — 香港將於5月6日（星期日）首次主辦「ASTC三項鐵人青年亞洲錦標賽2018」，賽事安排在大埔船灣淡水湖（大尾篤）舉行，為香港青少年三項鐵人精英選手提供一次主場爭標的大好機會。
賽事預計將吸引來自共10個亞洲國家地區的青年鐵人代表參賽，競逐青年亞洲冠軍的寶座。香港將會派出多名青少年精英代表參賽，迎接來自其他國家地區「過江龍」的挑戰。女子組比賽將於當日上午6時展開，而男子組賽事則於上午6:30舉行，賽程為「半奧運距離」，依序完成游泳（750公尺）、單車（20公里）及跑步（５公里）三個項目，其中單車路段頗為崎嶇，極具挑戰性，全面考驗運動員的體能、耐力和意志。
香港三項鐵人總會副會長溫樹華先生說：「香港在過去多年一直舉辦亞洲盃賽事，我們已累積了一定的經驗，今次香港能夠首次主辦青年亞洲錦標賽，實在非常難得。我們希望透過這次賽事，進一步向家長和青少年推廣三項鐵人運動，讓他們見識到香港在亞洲級別賽事的地位，同時亦有機會與海外運動員交流和學習。」
香港三項鐵人運動員在亞洲賽事一直佔據領導地位，其中男子青年組選手更連續三年勇奪亞洲錦標賽冠軍。目前在海外升學的Oscar Coggins 於去年印尼巨港舉行的亞洲錦標賽青年組奪魁，為了全力爭取在主場衛冕的資格，早前已專程回港備戰；另一位年青選手余承謙先後於2015及2016年兩屆亞洲錦標賽踏上頒獎台，分別取得青年組亞軍和季軍，假如他今屆再度獲選參賽，將會是他最後一次亞洲錦標賽青年組比賽，更難得的是在香港主場出戰，相信他定必會竭盡所能，務求為香港、為自己爭取一面金牌。
一眾香港三項鐵人年青好手稍後將會遠赴菲律賓，參加在4月21-22日舉行的蘇碧灣亞洲杯比賽，以爭取青年亞洲錦標賽及亞運代表隊的資格。除了上述兩人之外，其他男子隊成員還包括伍泰龍、曾祥星、洪迪朗、Philip Sato和李子浩，他們去年都有參加亞洲錦標賽或亞洲杯比賽的經驗，經過冬訓的鍛練之後實力再進一步提升，有力與其他亞洲選手爭一日之長短。
女子組的候選代表則有Bailee Brown 和曹詠淘。Bailee Brown於去年10月舉行香港亞洲盃賽事取得青年精英組第六名，而曹詠淘則於去年4月蘇碧灣亞洲盃賽事取得青年精英組第四名，兩人均有力在青年亞洲錦標賽爭入前列位置。
精英運動員郭汝鏗於2015年新台北亞洲錦標賽勇奪青年組冠軍，他鼓勵各位年青隊員拼命為港爭光，他說：「香港首次主辦青年亞洲錦標賽是一次難得的機會，到時一定有很多家人朋友來到現場為大家打氣，我希望大家都可以取得好成績，甚至踏上頒獎台。之前香港已經連贏三屆亞洲錦標賽青年組冠軍，你們每一位都有能力為香港延續這個驕人紀錄！」
另一位鐵人精英黃煦蔚則寄語年青隊員享受比賽，他說：「青年組比賽是我們三鐵運動員一個必經階段，亦是我們成長過程一部分。各位能夠爭取到代表香港參加亞洲錦標賽已是一種榮譽，亦象徵了青年運動員的成就，是一個重要的里程碑。我希望大家，特別是最後一年參加青年組比賽的隊友，全力爭取成績之餘亦盡量享受比賽，與來自其他地方的運動員建立友誼，為自己保存珍貴的回憶！」
比賽當日除了進行青年亞洲錦標賽外，大會亦會舉行分齡三項鐵人賽，公開接受海外及本港的三鐵運動員報名參加，截止日期為4月19日。報名及查詢有關活動詳情，請聯絡香港三項鐵人總會：
1) 網址：www.triathlon.com.hk
2) 報名連結：https://goo.gl/oeHNQT
3) 查詢熱線：2504 8282
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ 香港三項鐵人總會)
「國泰航空/滙豐香港國際七人賽」決賽日賽事 斐濟創下史無前例四連霸
[2018年4月8日，香港]：「2018國泰航空/滙豐香港國際七人欖球賽」煞科日共吸引37,586名球迷入場享受這盛大派對。
「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽」各支種籽隊伍不再對敵方憐香惜玉，傾盡全力爭奪最佳名次。
上年香港站冠軍斐濟在八強輕鬆撃敗阿根廷 (40-0)，他們在四強遇上去屆系列賽總冠軍南非，南非在八強以38-5力克西班牙過關。這兩支勁旅在香港站狀態十足，在四強戰埋身肉搏令觀眾心跳加速，最終斐濟以26-24險勝南非而獲得銀盃決賽席位。
非洲好手肯雅近年穩佔七人賽前列位置，躋身決賽與斐濟一較高下，肯雅先後在八強和四強勇挫蘇格蘭 (19-12) 和新西蘭 (21-12)。
力爭四連霸的斐濟在銀盃決賽勇猛無比，開戰1分30秒已達陣先開紀錄，落後的肯雅在情急下有兩名球員分別在第7及第8分鐘被罰黃牌。以寡敵眾的肯雅未能抵禦斐濟的連環攻撃，被對手達陣兩次和射入附加罰球，帶著0-17分數落差返回更衣室。
負隅頑抗的肯雅換邊後火速達陣， 卻未能射入附加罰球，斐濟為免讓肯雅死灰復燃，在第6分鐘回敬一記達陣和附加罰球，將分數拉開至24-5，亦意味了銀盃獎盃已手到拿來，縱使肯雅在完場前 取得達陣和命中附加罰球，只算取回一份安慰獎。斐濟最後以24-12完成前無古人的四連霸偉業。
南非在季軍戰挫新西蘭 (29-7)，阿根廷則戰勝美國 (14-12) 得第五，法國力克加拿大 (33-7) 取得「挑戰盃」(即第七位) 。
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ HKRU)
「勞倫斯世界體育公益計劃」和香港欖球總會社區基金 期望藉「2018國泰航空/滙豐香港國際七人欖球賽」籌募一百萬善款
[2018年4月7日，香港]：「勞倫斯世界體育公益計劃」成為「國泰航空/滙豐香港國際七人欖球賽」43年以來的首個官方慈善伙伴。 「勞倫斯世界體育公益計劃」在世界各地致力透過運動去改善年青人的生活，所以今次合作絕對是佳偶天成。 香港欖球總會(欖總)旗下的香港欖球總會社區基金自2013年已捐出逾8百萬港幣。 勞倫斯世界體育學院主席費斯柏克(Sean Fitzpatrick)對今次合作表示: 「『國泰航空/滙豐香港國際七人欖球賽』是旗艦級的七人賽，並且是亞洲首屈一指的體育盛事。這次既新又令人興奮的合作可讓我們在區內以運動去制止暴力、歧視和不公現象的工作得以持之以恆。」 欖總預計今年不同的籌款活動如「香港國際七人欖球賽」午宴、賽事期間的香港大球場大屏幕留言和賽事收藏版印刷品等，將可籌得逾港幣100萬善款。 由一眾欖球名宿兼現任勞倫斯世界體育學院成員及大使如費斯柏克、派薩斯(Morne du Plessis)、維拿斯(Jean de Villiers)、波達(Hugo Porta)和奧德斯哥爾(Brian O’Driscoll)親筆簽名的限量200本收藏版印刷品，將以每本港幣999元發售。 籌得善款將分配予由「勞倫斯世界體育公益計劃」支持本地及其他亞洲新的慈善項目。「勞倫斯世界體育公益計劃」現時在亞洲12個家支持18個機構，而在全球支持的項目超過100個。 此外，以運動、教育和健康項目為弱勢兒童和青少年提供支援為宗旨的亞洲之友( Friends of Asia Hong Kong)以捐款和配對捐款形式支持今年「香港國際七人欖球賽」的善舉。 亞洲之友向香港欖球總會社區基金的「聽障欖球計劃」捐出港幣15萬元，並獲得「勞倫斯世界體育公益計劃」的配對捐助。 亞洲之友也支持「奮進行動」之「為友達陣」項目，3位現役七人隊兼前「奮進行動」成員房傑鋒、莊舜匡和麥季聰只要任何其中一人達陣，亞洲之友便會因應每次達陣而捐出港幣5千元。香港女子七人隊隊長鄭家慈多年來擔任「奮進行動」義工，今次也代表女子隊參加「為友達陣」。這些高「含金量」的達陣必須來自香港隊未來12個月的賽事。 「亞洲之友」董事崔佐能先生說: 「『亞洲之友』很高興今年與欖總攜手透過『香港國際七人欖球賽』向青少年宣揚運動的健康訊息，欖球現已與網球、高爾夫球和游泳成為一家人。」「我們相信學業和運動同樣重要。我們希望聽障欖球員的勵志故事能啟發更多年青人，並祝願聽障欖球隊有豐盛的一年。」 「我們也為由『奮進行動』力爭上游至今天代表香港出賽的球員打氣，希望他們的達陣停不了並以此構成強大的慈善力量。」 「香港國際七人欖球賽」的其他本地受惠慈善團體還有透過體育推動社會流動力、性別平等、社會共融和健康生活的凝動香港體育基金，另外簇新的亞洲欖球慈善計劃 - 「Pass it Back」向區內的弱勢青少年提供欖球和綜合人生技巧的培訓。 欖總與「勞倫斯世界體育公益計劃」的合作不限於金錢的層面，由後者資助的南非項目「Cool Play」將與「奮進行動」成員在今週以球會友，兩位前南非國家隊隊長兼「勞倫斯世界體育公益計劃」成員派薩斯和維拿斯也參與其中。 費斯柏克將於星期六大球場內的「大巡遊」前與欖總會長鄧樂勤(Peter Duncan)先生，一同宣佈是次合作正式展開，費斯柏克將向鄧樂勤送上「勞倫斯世界體育公益計劃」的欖球名宿特別畫作。
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ HKRU)
「國泰航空/滙豐香港國際七人欖球賽」次日賽事 英格蘭澳洲失落銀盃賽 香港男子隊外圍賽八強止步
[2018年4月7日，香港]：「國泰航空/滙豐香港國際七人欖球賽」今日繼續熱爆銅鑼灣，「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 」和「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 - 外圍賽」的各路好手全力爭取更理想小組賽成績。 昨日出師不利的香港隊今天對津巴布韋只能背城借一，否則便緣盡八強。隊長黎萬 利 (Ben Rimene) 率先在第3分鐘發難，達陣之餘更包辦附加罰球，保確特 (Kane Boucaut) 1分鐘後也達陣得手，這12分的領先優勢維持至上半場完結。 利維尼 (Jack Neville) 在下半場3分鐘被罰黃牌，香港形勢在少打一人下瞬間由好變壞，津巴布韋兩次達陣追回14分，正當香港看似再次斷送大好江山之 際，鬥志頑強的高凡戴爾 (Michael Coverdale) 在完場前及時攻入關鍵達陣，反先對手17-14。新兵韋兆新 (Russell Webb) 射入附加罰球，鎖定19-14的勝果。 香港在八強火拚於小組賽力克日本 (19-10) 的智利。這支 南美兵擁有幾名快馬在陣，多次成功利用高速突破港隊防線而達陣得手，反觀港隊的多番攻勢皆徒勞無功，雖然保確特的達陣和黎萬利的兩分，無阻智利上半場已領 先10- 7。處於下風的港隊在易邊後努力尋找對方的破綻，可惜受制於對方的嚴密防守，多番攻擊都未能傷害智利分毫，更反被對手回敬兩次達陣連附加罰球，在完場前分 半鐘已將分數拉開至24-7。香港另一新兵丹馬克(Max Denmark) 在完場前一分鐘達陣，但這不足以改變12-24的出局命運。 港隊主帥莊保羅 (Paul John) 賽後對球隊表現感到失望: 「我們有能力與智利周旋，可是自己在攻守上犯下很多失誤，而對手也善用這些機會得分，我們也因此付上八強止步的代價。」 「我們很多謝球迷在這兩天落力地為我們打氣，很可惜明天不能再次在他們面前獻技，我們希望日後會以更好表現報答他們。」他補充說。 「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 」種籽隊組別的重頭戲是斐濟與新西蘭的交手，這 場比賽戲碼已充滿話題性，上半場斐濟只以12-7領先，新西蘭在下半場的表現判若兩隊，防線鬆散程度令人錯愕，斐濟的得分猶如探嚢取物，下半場打出 38-0的一面倒成績，達成這筆50-7的大手交易。 上屆系列賽總盟主南非狀態十足，施溫戴維斯 (Selyvn Davids) 和簡斯(Stedman Ganss) 均達陣梅開二度，輕輕鬆鬆地以33-15將褪色勁旅英格蘭征服。英格蘭繼昨日不敵蘇格蘭再輸一仗出局。 至於在第一場分組賽被西班牙絕殺的澳洲，在早上的第二場分組賽再度落敗，以14-34慘負加拿大，即使在最後一場分組賽以28-26擊敗肯雅，仍難逃銀盃出局的厄運。 次日入場人數共有38,253人。
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ HKRU)
「中國人壽(海外) FIVB世界女排聯賽2018 – 香港」新聯賽新賽制 里奧金牌徐雲麗全力支持門票將於4月11日公開發售
【2018 年 4 月 7 日 - 香港】由香港排球總會主辦、中國人 壽保險(海外)股份有限公司（「中國人壽（海外）」）呈獻之「中國人壽(海外) FIVB世界女排聯賽2018 - 香港」(「世界女排聯賽2018 - 香港」)將於5月29至31日假香港體育館舉行。是次新聞發佈會，由香港排球總會會長吳守基SBS太平紳士、民政事務局體育專員楊德強先 生、中國人壽(海外)市場策劃部總經理唐秀珊小姐及2016年里約奧運冠軍中國女排成員徐雲麗小姐主禮；香港排球總會副會長王槐裕先生及影星湯怡小姐更親 身出席支持，攜手為是次世界級體壇盛事揭開序幕，並公佈門票發售詳情及賽程等資訊。 中、日、意、阿 大戰展開誓施渾身解數 國際排聯將已舉辦25年的「FIVB世界女排大獎賽」賽制優化，改革成全新的「FIVB世界女排聯賽」。全新聯賽、全新賽制，4支頂級國家隊伍將來 港上演6場高水平對賽。本屆賽事的參賽隊伍包括：世界排名第一的中國、2012年倫敦奧運季軍日本（世界排名第六）、2017年世界女排大獎賽亞軍意大利 （世界排名第七）、以及南美黑馬阿根廷（世界排名第十一）；當中的意大利於2017年世界女排大獎賽準決賽小勝中國進入總決賽，這次再度對戰叫中意排球迷 翹首以待！而在新賽制下所有隊伍於分站賽階段只會對賽一次，因此必須「場場去盡」爭取入圍南京總決賽的資格！ 矚目大戰 門票於4月11日起公開發售 賽事門票將由4月11日起於城市售票網公開發售，5月29日至31日每日門票票價分別為$650、$350及$120；全日制學生、傷殘人士及60 歲或以上長者均可享有9折優惠。市民欲觀賞各場精彩矚目大戰，務必把握購票機會，親身到場感受四支排球勁旅「場場去盡」的熾熱氣氛！關於售票詳情，可瀏覽 大會專頁www.facebook.com/VNLHK/ 或致電 9303 0571查詢。 香港排球總會會長吳守基SBS太平紳士致辭時表示：「首先感謝『中國人壽(海外)』對全新『FIVB世界女排聯賽』的支持，將嶄新排球體驗帶給香港 市民。新聯賽由16支國家隊於為期5星期的分站賽爭取出線進入總決賽。一次對賽，每場都是可一不可再的對戰！今年度賽事將有中國、日本、意大利及阿根廷4 支頂尖隊伍來港作賽，作為主辦單位表示極之歡迎及興奮。相信大家一定和我一樣非常期待４支世界頂級勁旅的精彩較量。各位球迷要把握機會盡快購票，不要錯過 今年的精彩賽事！」 民政事務局體育專員楊德強先生表示：「香港站賽事的入座率，一直屬過去7屆『FIVB世界女排大獎賽』分站賽中最高，可見香港球迷對排球賽事的支持 度及投入度均非常高，亦祝願全新『FIVB世界女排聯賽』可以延續大獎賽之成功，繼續成為香港體壇的標誌性賽事之一。」楊氏續表示，誠邀全港市民一起購票 入場觀賞精彩賽事，親身感受現場氣氛，並為各頂尖排球隊伍加油打氣。 中國人壽(海外)市場策劃部總經理唐秀珊小姐表示：「為表示對體育運動及世界級體壇盛事持續的支持，中國人壽（海外）今年成為首屆『FIVB世界女 排聯賽』香港站首席贊助商，希望可以與香港排球總會一同全力推動排球運動發展，擦出更多火花，將『FIVB世界女排聯賽2018 - 香港』打造成最矚目耀眼的一站。中國人壽（海外）亦會透過推出一系列的宣傳及推廣活動，將賽事介紹給全港市民，希望藉此推廣健康生活。」 2016年里約奧運冠軍中國女排成員徐雲麗小姐亦以主禮嘉賓身份到場支持，她表示：「中國國家隊的隊友們將與阿根廷、意大利及日本較勁，實在太緊張，很想可以快點看到！中國隊必定會全力以赴，打出一場又一場的好成績！雖然將會是場場硬將，我預祝各隊伍好運！」 近年對運動非常熱衷的影星湯怡小姐說：「熱愛運動是因為運動可以將人與人團結起來！學生時期已是排球粉絲的我，有機會可以親身觀看高水平的賽事，再與身邊素不相識但一樣投入的觀眾一同歡呼喝采，是只有入場觀戰才有的體驗！所以我一定會入場支持！」 近年對運動非常熱衷的影星湯怡小姐說：「熱愛運動是因為運動可以將人與人團結起來！學生時期已是排球粉絲的我，有機會可以親身觀看高水平的賽事，再與身邊素不相識但一樣投入的觀眾一同歡呼喝采，是只有入場觀戰才有的體驗！所以我一定會入場支持！」 4支頂級球隊的演出令人期待，賽事名譽顧問雷禮義先生亦親身到場為新聯賽率先進行了分析，並呼籲大家一起拭目以待各場精彩對賽！ 於發佈會開始前，徐雲麗小姐特別舉行了分享會暨簽名會，讓排球迷們藉著這難得的機會能近距離一睹球星風采外，更可以直接向這位三屆奧運中國女排代表提問，以加深對偶像及排球運動的瞭解，現場反應非常熱烈。 新聞發佈會現場同時設有兩個排球小遊戲攤位，讓大眾接觸排球運動不一樣的一面，藉此提高市民對排球運動的興趣。徐雲麗小姐與湯怡小姐亦親身試玩，兩人均認為遊戲非常有新意及有趣。 「中國人壽(海外) FIVB世界女排聯賽2018 - 香港」賽程如下： 5月29日星期二 18:00 日本對意大利 20:30中國對阿根廷 5月30日星期三 18:00阿根廷對意大利 20:30中國對日本 5月31日星期四 18:00日本對阿根 20:30中國對意大利
(資料來源: Yello Marketing/ 「中國人壽(海外) FIVB世界女排聯賽2018 – 香港」)
「國泰航空/滙豐香港國際七人欖球賽」首日賽事 系列賽列強順利過首關 香港男子隊外圍賽分組賽受挫 中國女子隊勇奪外圍賽冠軍下季升班
[2018年4月6日，香港]：今屆「國泰航空/滙豐 香港國際七人欖球賽」的3個賽事包括「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 」、「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 - 外圍賽」和「滙豐世界 女子七人欖球系列賽 - 外圍賽」(次日) 同於香港大球場上演。 「滙豐世界女子七人欖球系列賽 - 外圍賽」的八強至決賽隆重登 場，中國在小組賽三戰全勝，並挾此強勢順利闖過八強 (勝巴布亞新畿內亞31-10) 和四強 (勝比利時 22-5) 兩關，決賽對手是小組賽錄得兩勝一負的南非，南非先在八強輕取威爾斯26-0，但在四強重遇技勝一籌的肯雅 (當時肯雅 以24-12挫南非)，被看低一線的南非反而吐氣揚眉，以12-7復仇成功，奪得在「系列賽升班爭奪戰」與中國角力的資格。 這場「中南大戰」的女子決賽戲碼各有千秋，南非縱使有回勇之兆，以全勝姿態晉級的中國 隊正處於狀態之巔，上下半場各砍下12分和19分，而南非只在半場各取7分，系列賽升班資格繼上年 (第一屆女子系列賽外圍賽) 落 入日本手中後，連續兩年由亞洲球隊脫穎而出，南非卻無獨有偶地連續兩屆屈居亞軍。 在「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 - 外圍賽」主場出撃的港隊首戰遇上「老朋友」德國，香港的姚錦成開賽早段便取得達陣，令主場球迷陷入瘋狂，可惜未能命中附加罰球多取兩分。德國並未因此而自亂陣腳，更連續兩次達陣和射入附加罰球，以14-5領先半場。 下半場港隊加大火力，由荷迪 (Jamie Hood) 的達陣追成10-14，其中路好拍檔兼隊長黎萬利(Ben Rimene) 射入附加罰球，只落後兩分的港隊繼續窮追猛打，可惜在完場前關鍵時刻丟失控球權，令反敗為勝的機會化為烏有。 姚錦成賽後表示: 「我們上半場表現不錯，但要改善處理危急關頭的能力。新兵的演出理想，我們要在餘下賽事保持爭勝的自信。」 港隊第二仗碰上巴布亞新畿內亞，甫接戰不久便失守落後5分，雖然姚錦成之後扳回一球和黎萬利貢獻多兩分，可惜防線旋即兩番被對手攻陷，跌入7-15的劣勢完半場。 堅毅不屈的港隊下半場早段由李卡度達陣並一舉終止自己兩年的港隊「達陣荒」，隊長黎萬 利的附加罰球也不負所託，之後隊友高凡戴爾 (Michael Coverdale) 也取得達陣和黎萬利多添兩分，港隊一下子反超前至21-15。眼見勝利在望之際，巴布亞新畿內亞的祁民 (Arthur Clement)在完場於自己後半場似傳非傳騙過黎萬利，獨自狂跑至港隊門架下達陣，更親自操刀射入附加罰球，以1分之微絕殺港隊。 黎萬利說: 「我們不可以氣餒，要儘快收拾心情和好好休息，力爭在明天打開勝利之門。我們被對手絕殺因為反應不夠所致，希望日後的賽事能更加敏銳，以免重蹈覆轍。」 香港主帥莊保羅 (Paul John) 總結今日整體表現時道: 「我們這兩場比賽只差少少便可勝出，我們不能再輕易將控球權拱手相讓，這樣才不會變得被動。我估計如果明天能勝出最後一場小組賽，出線機會還未致完全破滅。」 系列賽方面，上屆總冠軍南非與持「外卡」參賽的韓國周旋，前者清風送爽地以45-0勝 出。暫時位居積分榜第3位的「黑色兵團」新西蘭在開鑼戰與「戰鬥民族」俄羅斯正面交鋒，新西蘭以36-5將俄羅斯收服。香港站衛冕盟主斐濟在今日尾場鬥薩 摩亞，斐濟展現出一貫皇者氣派，從容不迫地以31-12氣走對手。 首日入場人數共有34,971人。
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ HKRU)
「GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」圓滿落幕 UBB Gavekal與斐濟借將上下一心成衛冕冠軍
【2018年4月5日 - 香港】第33屆「GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」今日假香港足球會圓滿落幕，為期兩天的賽事一共吸引超過三千名觀眾入場觀賽。UBB Gavekal不但於賽事首日表現大勇，決賽日更是過關斬將，最終以24-17擊敗Tradition YCAC，成功衛冕冠軍寶座。 「GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」成功邀得來自澳洲、新西蘭、美國、法國、澳洲、蘇格蘭、東非、香港等地區的16支欖球隊伍參與激戰，進入決賽爭奪銀 盃冠軍的UBB Gavekal及Tradition YCAC均為大熱隊伍。在一眾觀眾歡呼吶喊下，UBB Gavekal開賽不久便先拔頭籌，於上半場以17-10穩佔上風。下半場Tradition YCAC率先達陣追平17-17，UBB Gavekal的斐濟借將馬上發功再追5分，在5名斐濟七欖名將巴利（Samu Bale）、華路亞（Sakeo Raloa） 、利文尼（Leveni Kurimalawai）、格保尼（Keponi Paul）及穆杜（Vasikali Mudu）護航下，Tradition YCAC始終未能扭轉局勢，後因失誤而讓UBB Gavekal以24-17成為賽事王者。 今屆銀碟賽、銀碗賽及銀盾賽冠軍分別由國際武士隊、蘇格蘭流浪隊及Natixis香港足球會奪得。 銀碟決賽由國際武士隊 （Samurai International）迎戰A-Trade男子隊（A-Trade Overseas Old Boys），國際武士隊以28-7獲得銀碟冠軍。銀碗決賽由蘇格蘭流浪隊（Taikoo Place Scottish Exiles）對東非隊（Hunter + Boo East Africans），蘇格蘭流浪隊以38-7勝出。銀盾決賽由Natixis香港足球會（Natixis HKFC）對愛爾蘭維京人（Irish Vikings），Natixis香港足球會最後以17-0輕鬆獲勝。 代表主隊Natixis香港足球會出戰的香港欖球運動員郭柏雅對於首次參加十欖賽事深感榮幸：「這是我第一次參加香港足球會的十人欖球賽，我覺得整 個比賽都很激烈，不少前國家隊成員及世界各地的欖球好手都前來參賽，無論是體能上還是技術上都已達到高水平。我們的球隊亦是一場比一場打得好，雖然這是我 首次加入這個球隊陣容，但以前曾和其中一兩位隊友一起練習，有一定的默契。今日的觀眾反應及現場氣氛相當不錯，十人欖球賽確實有助帶起欖球周的氣氛。」 GFI自2006年起冠名賽事，其他贊助商包括金贊助商Natixis；銀贊助商AIA、Allied World、BT、DHL、Q-Net及Taikoo Place；銅贊助商CBRE、EY及Markel；Last Word Media；官方汽車Volvo、官方啤酒Grolsch以及官方服裝Samurai Sportswear。官方慈善夥伴是My Name’5 Doddie 慈善基金，由患有運動神經細胞疾病的前蘇格蘭球員Doddie Weir發起。
(資料來源: i3 Sports/ Hong Kong Tens)
New look Hong Kong take strides towards future in HSBC World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series Qualifier
[Hong Kong, 5 April 2018]: Hong Kong took strides towards the future on day one of the HSBC World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series Qualifier at So Kon Po on Thursday, getting stronger as the day got longer and capping their efforts off with a stirring 17-12 victory over Kazakhstan.
It wasn’t enough to see the local side safely into the second day’s play but, coupled with an improved second-half display in a 17-7 loss to China, it had Hong Kong looking confidently at the Asian Games in Jakarta this August.
“It was a great way to end the day and that’s what we take out of it – we got better every game,” said Hong Kong coach Kevin West.
“I think that perhaps in a home tournament we applied too much pressure on ourselves and we didn’t need to. By the time we were relaxed and playing the game we wanted to, it was the second half against China.
“It was building towards the Asian Games. Last time we played China we lost by 40 points. Today, 19-7 and then we beat Kazakhstan. That shows us that if we get it right, yes we can medal [at the Asian Games].”
The star of the Hong Kong win was the bustling Natasha Olson-Thorn, who was everything in the first half and seemed to inspire her teammates.
West also praised the efforts of the newcomers to the Hong Kong squad in Vivian Poon Hoi-yan, Agnes Chan Tsz-ching, Amber Tsang Wing-chi, Stephanie Chan Chor-ki and Agnes Tse Wing-kiu.
The pre-tournament loss of speedstars Aggie Poon Pak-yan and Chong Ka-yan was always going to make life hard but West and his charges took fate on the chin.
“We showed we can compete,” said West.
“Losing our two speedsters was always going to make it difficult for us but that’s not to make excuses. We knew we would have to play for longer.
“We created against China out wide but just couldn’t compete [against their speed] but we created and that’s the positive.
“I’m delighted with all of them. They all stood up and came to the party. With the depth we are growing that was fantastic.”
The game of the day came when fierce regional rivals South Africa and Kenya met in the afternoon with Pool X – and bragging rights – up for grabs.
The South Africans were beaten finalists here last year and had downed Kenya the past two times they have met but the tables were turned on Thursday. Kenyan coach Kevin Wambua said his team were out to make a point and it was heard loud and clear as they overran South Africa 24-12 to win the pool.
“South Africa is one of our greatest rivals. We’ve lost to them in two finals but this time the girls were not going to take that again,” said Wambua.
“In training we have been superb. We want to go all the way and this is a huge boost in morale for tomorrow. These girls have come a long way and to be playing now at the Hong Kong Stadium is something special. Hopefully we can go all the way.”
China also went through to the quarter-finals unbeaten and simply overran the more fancied Brazilians 31-5 in their last game to top Pool Y.
HSBC Women’s Sevens World Series Qualifier quarter-finals at Hong Kong Stadium: China v Papua New Guinea (10.30am), Belgium v Brazil (10.52am), Wales v South Africa (11.14am), Kenya v Argentina (11.36am).
(Source: Elite Step Asia/ HKRU)
「2018世界冰球錦標賽」香港男子及18歲以下冰球代表隊聯合演練
1. 香港男子和男子18歲以下冰球隊密鑼緊鼓地準備「2018 世界冰球錦標賽」
2. 香港18歲以下代表隊出發「18歲以下世界冰球錦標賽」前在Mega Ice與大港隊進行聯合操練
3. 港隊隊長梁健邦專心訓練
4. 「2014世界冰球錦標賽」第3組別「最佳龍門」何敬之努力練習守龍門技術
5. 香港冰球隊主教練Nikita Smirnov著緊地督促操練
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/「2018 Mega Ice五人冰球賽」)
Penguins captain Kiri Kiri calls Scotland’s Waterboys “dark horse”
Pyrenees of France also emerge as potential Cup contenders at GFI HKFC 10s after drawing with three-time finalists Samurai in final Pool D match
Hong Kong; April 4, 2018: Penguins captain Antonio Kiri Kiri described Scotland’s Projecx Waterboys as a “dark horse” after the two teams played out a thrilling 12-12 draw in the Pool B finale at the 33rd GFI HKFC 10s, which concludes at Hong Kong Football Club on Thursday.
Both teams won their first two matches, but the second-seeded Penguins, champions in 2013 and 2016, topped the group on most tries scored.
Fourth seeds Samurai International also only topped their group on tries scored after playing out a thrilling 17-17 draw with fifth seeds Kir Club Pyrenees, while top seeds UBB Gavekal – who won the Cup for the first time last year – and third seeds Tradition YCAC topped the other pools.
Kiri Kiri, 26, was co-captain of the Penguins side that beat Samurai in the 2016 final and said the team might benefit from their last pool match, which followed wins over Irish Vikings (52-0) and Natixis HKFC (34-14).
“We got ahead early against the Waterboys, but we couldn’t hold them off. They’re a pretty good side and capitalised on a couple of opportunities and gave us a bit of a fight there. We’re pretty happy to take the draw in the end – we looked like losing for a second,” said the former All Blacks Sevens forward who made his Super Rugby debut this year for the Blues.
“We can take some positives from it. We saw a few things we haven’t seen yet as a team, on attack and defence. We have an opportunity to work on those, so when they come again tomorrow, we’ll be ready for them.
“I think Waterboys could be a real dark horse here, while there’s also Samurai’s Fijians and the defending champs, UBB. It’s going to be a big final day. I’m looking forward to it.”
Kylem O’Donnell, Kiri Kiri’s co-captain in 2016, is playing for YCAC with his brother Declan O’Donnell, much to the Penguins leader’s surprise.
“I had no idea until I saw Kylem in our hotel walking around with his brother in his YCAC gear! I’m pretty disappointed not to have him here with me,” said Kiri Kiri. “He’s a bloody great player and the Player of the Tournament last time, so we’ve got a bit of work ahead of us if we come across him.”
YCAC had to work hard to beat US debutants CCIG Tigers 12-0 following a 45-0 romp over Devils Own Shanghai Silver Devils and finished with a 17-0 win over sixth seeds King’s College sponsored by Strategic Equity Alliance.
Declan was one of the first day’s standouts and the 27-year-old said he enjoyed his debut at the 10s, having watched the tournament previously while with New Zealand for the Hong Kong Sevens.
“I only got a couple of tries today, but I gave a few assists for the boys as well,” smiled O’Donnell, who moved from the Blues to the Chiefs this year.
“We’re playing all right, but in dribs and drabs. I think when we get it all together, we’ll be one of the top contenders, but all the other sides are the same. They’ve all had scares. Penguins drew their last game when they should have won, so it just shows.”
UBB struggled to beat 16th seeds Hunter + Boo East Africans 10-7 in their Pool A opener, found their rhythm in a 47-0 win over 12th seeds A-Trade Overseas Old Boys and had to come from behind to beat Classic Wallabies 29-5.
Head coach Matt Clarkin is looking to lead the top seeds to back-to-back Cup titles, but the former UBB captain played down his team’s chances as well as the shock of almost losing to the bottom seeds.
“We weren’t exactly happy with our first hit out, but I think we were just finding our feet. There’s a lot of new guys so we’re trying to make combinations and luckily we managed to scrape a win and learned a hell of a lot from it. That shows the boys are intelligent enough to learn from their mistakes and we were happy with the second win,” said Clarkin.
“Against the Wallabies, we wanted to start well, so conceding an early try wasn’t ideal, but the boys showed character to come back and take control of the game. I think we’ll compete with the big boys again, but we’re not thinking about the Cup yet. You look too far ahead, you end up falling over your feet.”
Samurai – fielding an all-Fijian squad coached by Nasoni Roko – beat Sedbergh School Old Boys 42-0, came from behind to beat Taikoo Place Scottish Exiles 34-19 and had to hold on for a draw with a highly motivated Pyrenees side, who will face YCAC in the quarter-finals.
GFI has title sponsored the event since 2006. Other sponsors and suppliers for 2018 include Natixis (Gold Sponsor), AIA, Allied World, BT, DHL, Q-Net and Taikoo Place (Silver Sponsors), CBRE, EY and Markel (Bronze Sponsors), Last Word Media, Volvo (Official Car), Grolsch (Official Beer) and Samurai Sportswear (Official Apparel).
The Official Charity is the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, created in support of former Scotland and Lions lock Doddie Weir who is suffering from Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
Inaugurated in 1986 to celebrate Hong Kong Football Club’s centenary, the GFI HKFC 10s has long attracted the game’s top players including seven All Blacks who won the 2015 Rugby World Cup – Conrad Smith, Jerome Kaino (both 2003), Ben Smith, Charlie Faumuina (both 2008), Beauden Barrett, Sam Cane (both 2010) and Nehe Milner-Skudder (2013).
Bowl Quarter-Finals
09:00 Classic Wallabies (8) v Natixis HKFC (15)
09:30 Taikoo Place Scottish Exiles (9) v Devil’s Own Shanghai Silver Dragons (14)
09:55 CCIG Tigers (10) v Sedbergh School Old Boys (13)
10:25 Irish Vikings (11) v Hunter + Boo East Africans (16)
Cup Quarter-Finals
11:15 UBB Gavekal (1) v Projecx Waterboys (7)
11:45 Samurai International (4) v King’s College sponsored by Strategic Equity Alliance (6)
12:10 Tradition YCAC (3) v Kir Club Pyrenees (5)
12:40 Turkish Airlines Penguins (2) v A-Trade Overseas Old Boys (12)
Note: Seeding in brackets
Schedule: www.hongkongtens.com/match.php
Tickets: www.ticketflap.com/gfihkfc10s2018
Times: Wed, April 4: 9.30am-8.30pm; Thu, April 5: 9.00am-7.30pm
(Source: i3 Sports/ Hong Kong Tens)
「國泰航空/滙豐香港國際七人欖球賽」群雄混戰一觸即發
[2018年4月4日，香港]：香港欖球總會 (欖總) 今日在賽前隊長大合照和記者會上，為本週五開鑼的「國泰航空/滙豐香港國際七人欖球賽」點亮了烽火台。
香港主辦的3個賽事包括「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 」(16隊)、「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 – 外圍賽」(12隊)和「滙豐世界女子七人欖球系列賽 – 外圍賽」(12隊) ，合共為40支球隊設下龍門陣。
眾多球員曾在「香港國際七人欖球賽」一戰成名，甚至欖球生涯從此平步青雲，相信今屆賽事會成為欖球界未來10年的指標。
這主要原因是部份參賽球隊戰罷香港站後，便隨即馬不停蹄轉戰澳洲黃金海岸的「英聯邦運動會」，以及再之後的「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 」新加坡分站。
「世界盃 」將於7月在三藩市盛大舉行，所以來港參賽的隊伍對今個星期日的盟主之位和往後的錦標一心二用也不足為奇，各隊的用兵之計頓成為坊間熱哄哄的話題。
上屆香港站皇者斐濟劍指前無古人的四連霸，他們將挾稱霸上一站(溫哥華站)的強勢揮軍香江，這支傳統勁旅在積分榜之首南非身後如影相隨，令只餘下3站的賽季仍充滿變數。
斐濟隊長杜華偉(Jerry Tuwai)雖然有多位系列賽老手相伴，但在勁敵新西蘭、薩摩亞和俄羅斯同處一室下，他們A組之路絕不輕鬆。
南非是其中一之決定兵分兩路的球隊，他們幾年前已將成人隊和青年隊一起集訓，提早著手準備香港站和「英聯邦運動會」的「地獄賽程」。
香港球迷可一睹上屆以「青春班」陣容贏得全季10站半數冠軍兼以28分優勢勇奪總冠軍的南非隊英姿。他們今次由經驗豐富的曉文(Dewald Huma)牽頭，與C組的英格蘭、蘇格蘭和「黑馬」韓國角力。
除了家傳戶曉的國家外，其他新興力量也靜靜起革命。美國近年在香港站演出優異，他們在前美式足球員兼現時系列賽的「達陣王」(32次)巴卡(Perry Baker)掛帥下，相信今次會帶來更大驚喜。
「英倫邦運動會」效應對美國隊影響輕微，除了威爾斯外，法國和阿根廷也在D組派出強陣。阿根廷今季狀態大勇，已奪得開普敦站(負新西蘭14-38)和拉斯維加斯站(負美國0-28)的亞軍。
「非洲雄師」肯雅在加拿大銀盃決賽不敵斐濟後，揚言在香港站重整旗鼓，同組的加拿大和西班牙相信不會對肯雅構成巨大威脅，反而改派年青小將參戰的澳洲可能掀起暗湧，因為他們今年1月在主場迎來6年來首個悉尼站錦標。
「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 – 外圍賽」的12支爭標球隊也大有「長江後浪推前浪」之勢，由莊保羅(Paul John)帶領的香港隊將成為焦點之一，他們也以爭取下季「滙豐世界七人欖球系列賽 」升班資格為目標。
莊保羅曾對抽籤結果表示: 「外圍賽組別的對手們皆具有相當質素，我們必須傾力與他們一戰到底。」
抽籤結果並沒有偏袒主隊，港隊的F組對手有巴布亞新畿內亞(今季首次參加悉尼和漢密爾頓分站)，還有在上屆淘汰賽以14-7氣走香港的德國，以及在2012年幾乎奪冠的津巴布韋，當時他們在完場前1分鐘被葡萄牙連續達陣兩次而稱臣(17-21) 。
香港隊長黎萬利(Ben Rimene)說: 「我們對德國有1勝1負的往績，勝負最後分野往往取決於誰能夠在壓力和疲倦夾撃下仍能保持水準。」
E組方面，香港宿敵日本也面對重重難關，穩步上揚的智利、格魯吉亞和烏干達也非善類。
烏干達副隊長禾高華治(Phillip Wokorach)經歷了上屆八強被巴布亞新畿內亞逼走之痛，他曾如此形容外圍賽: 「成為系列賽一份子將改變我們自己和烏干達欖球的命運。」
自2000年闊別香港站的愛爾蘭已重整七人隊陣容，他們繼在2015年有霎時驚喜的表現後便開始上軌道，並以「歐洲二哥」(一哥為俄羅斯)身份獲得香港站入場劵。
愛爾蘭統帥艾迪(Anthony Eddy)說: 「我們已對這賽事盼望多年，現在對身處外圍賽和享負盛名的賽事氣氛其中感到十分雀躍。」愛爾蘭的G組對手有今季曾參加拉斯維加斯站和溫哥華站的烏拉圭，以及牙買加和庫克群島。
艾迪續說: 「我們可說是香港站的新面孔，很多球隊在過去4、5年接受次輪外圍賽的磨練。
我們的生力軍希望以實質表現取悅觀眾。」
女子賽新人輩出的趨勢也不讓男子賽專美，今屆「滙豐世界女子七人欖球系列賽 – 外圍賽」的競爭程度可說是歷年之最。
12支球隊除了力爭下季唯一的升班資格外，很多爭標者也虎視7月的「世界盃」和8月的「亞運會」。今年的抽籤結果令很多冤家提早狹路相逢，而新賽制下由八強戰開始便可以在週五的40,000名香港大球場觀眾前獻技。
香港身處的B組有巴西、亞洲老對手中國和哈薩克。港隊翼鋒高香慧(Natasha Olson-Thorne)說: 「我們曾與她們交手所以並不陌生，要知己知彼才能百戰百勝。我們會堅持自己的風格和視晉身八強亮相大球場是最 低要求，當然我們也以決賽為目標。」
A 組大熱門是在上屆決賽以10-22不敵日本的南非，她們今次陣容更強大，皆因「南非欖球小姐」派娜婭已候命上陣，至少要力壓肯雅、巴布亞新畿內亞和墨西哥小組出線，更要一雪上屆未能登基的前恥。
南非教頭戴樸(Paul Delport)說: 「累積的經驗往往能在關鍵時刻產生重要作用。我們未來3星期要應付兩大賽事，希望晉身系列賽之列來提升南非女子欖球到另一層次，還有『英聯邦運動會』初體驗。」
肯雅與南非的思路相近，她們希望比上年在八強敗走意大利身上的成績更進一步，主帥
雲保亞(Kevin Wambua)大談今個月的目標時說:「我們當然很重視『英聯邦運動會』，香港站對我們來說較『英聯邦運動會』更重要。」南非在上年的「非洲七人賽」力克肯雅封后，令這分組的復仇味更濃。
女子賽餘下的C組有威爾斯、比利時、阿根廷和首次參賽的波蘭。
出席今日賽前隊長大合照和記者會的嘉賓包括國際欖球理事會賽事營運總監的蘭尼(Douglas Langley)先生、 滙豐環球銀行Global Rugby Strategy & Planning 高級經理Sven Gloor先生、 國泰航空Brand, Insights and Marketing Communications總經理鍾橋軒 (Edward Bell) 先生，以及欖總行政總裁麥偉彬(Robbie McRobbie)先生。
參與今日記者會的主教練包括南非的斯庫曼(Marius Schoeman)、斐濟的備加力(Gareth Baber) 、澳洲的鶴捷斯(Jarred Hodges)新西蘭的蘭度( Roger Randle)、美國的法迪( Mike Friday)和香港的莊保羅。
今屆共有93場(連同女子賽八強及以上的比賽)精彩激戰在一連3日(4月6-8日)累計的120,00名球迷前上演。有關賽事詳情可瀏覽 hksevens.com。
(資料來源: Elite Step Asia/ HKRU)
「GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」明日展開戰幔 十六強隊各出其謀 YCAC派兄弟幫上陣
【2018年4月3日 – 香港】「第33屆GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」將於4月4至5日（明日及後日）假香港足球會舉行，來自澳洲、新西蘭、美國、法國、澳洲、蘇格蘭、東非、香 港等地的星級球隊將於一連兩日的十人欖球賽全力出擊，以爭奪冠軍寶座。傳奇七人欖球隊All Blacks的三位球員，薩拉西（Salesi Rayasi）、瑪納基（Amanaki Nicole）及曾兩度參加過「GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」的馬路加（Luke Masirewa）亦於七人欖球賽開賽前特地到 訪香港足球會，親身為來自香港足球會及保良局的少年軍指導球技。
今屆「GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」大熱之一的國際武士隊（Samurai）一早到比賽場地練習，準備充足。
曾代表YCAC出戰「GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」的馬路加與All Blacks隊友深得一眾少年軍歡迎，不但悉心指導球技，對他們的提問更是有問必答。
「GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」是香港足球會於1986年為紀念成立100周年而舉辦 的賽事，至今已是第三十三屆。賽事首日為分組賽，參賽隊伍將會分成四組，與同組的球隊輪流對戰，次日為銀盃、銀碟、銀碗、銀盾賽及女子邀請賽。「第33屆 GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」種子排名如下：
Pool A: UBB Gavekal (1)、Classic Wallabies (8)、A-Trade Overseas Old Boys (12)、Hunter + Boo East Africans (16)
Pool B: Turkish Airlines Penguins (2)、Projecx Waterboys (7)、Irish Vikings (11)、Natixis HKFC (15)
Pool C: Tradition YCAC (3)、King’s College sponsored by Strategic Equity Alliance (6)、CCIG Tigers (10)、Devil’s Own Shanghai Silver Dragons (14)
Pool D: Samurai International (4)、Kir Club Pyrenees (5)、Taikoo Place Scottish Exiles (9)、Sedbergh School Old Boys (13)
GFI自2006年起冠名賽事，今年賽事的其他贊助商包括金贊助商Natixis；銀贊助商AIA、Allied World、BT、DHL、Q-Net及Taikoo Place；銅贊助商CBRE、EY及Markel；Last Word Media；官方汽車Volvo、官方啤酒Grolsch以及官方服裝Samurai Sportswear。官方慈善夥伴是My Name’5 Doddie 慈善基金，由患有運動神經細胞疾病的前蘇格蘭球員Doddie Weir發起。
門票現於Ticketflap (www.ticketflap.com/gfihkfc10s2018)發售，單日比賽門票為港幣100元正，賽後派對門票為港幣400元正。賽程可於http://www.hongkongtens.com/match.php瀏覽。
如需更多資訊，請瀏覽：
Facebook:www.facebook.com/HKFC10s
Twitter:https://twitter.com/GFIHKFC10s
Instagram:www.instagram.com/gfihkfc10s
YouTube:www.youtube.com/c/hkfc10s
Hashtag: #HK10s
(資料來源: i3 Sports/ 「GFI香港足球會十人欖球賽」)
勞力士中國海帆船賽 2018中國海帆船賽在如詩如畫般的蘇碧灣完滿落幕
2018勞力士中國海帆船賽最後一艘賽船於今早抵達蘇碧灣。本屆賽事有29艘賽船，來自22 個地區共265名參賽者。
郭志梁(Karl Kwok) 的MOD 70 Beau Geste憑最高航速每小時37海浬，以38小時30分7秒完成比賽，成功以9小時31分40秒之差打破18年前創下的多體船的紀錄。
今屆賽事的風勢和風向有別於往年，但當中的挑戰性仍是一眾參賽者期望在離岸賽所得到的。 IRC競賽 0組賽船在比賽后期面對較不理想的天氣狀況，然而風勢在後期增強，讓其餘賽船以較快速度駛往菲律賓。
IRC競賽全場總冠軍來自IRC競賽1組 Fred Kinmonth 和 Nick Burns 的GTS 43 Mandrake III 號(香港), 緊隨其後有YY Yan 和YF Liu Ker的 42 Custom 海狼號 (香港 / 中國內地), 她亦同屬IRC競賽1組。
在海狼號的莫俊傑(Tiger Mok) 奪得全場第2名時稱：「這大概是海狼號第2或3次參加大型離岸賽，我很高興看到她的進步，亦期望能於比賽中發揮更大潛能。所有隊員均做得很出色！我希望我 們能成為其他中國内地船東的榜樣，希望他們能一同參與更多同類型的離岸帆船賽，同時他們亦可藉此機會加強隊員訓練，航海知識及經驗，以達至可參與世界賽的 水平。」
全場第3名是IRC競賽0組來自菲律賓Ernesto Echauz 的TP52 Standard Insurance Centennial號， Ernesto Echauz在賽後表示：「我們作了一場很好的比賽，過程十分順利。總括以前我們曾參加過的賽事，這算是最輕鬆的，沒有什麼問題。另外，這場比賽對我們來 說別具意義，因為我們已一起航海多達10 年了。」
父子雙人檔 Philippe 和Comos Grelon的 Tbs-Aya號昨晚抵達，以全場第15名及IRC競賽2組第2名總結賽事，緊隨Glenn Smith的 Grand Soleil 45 Blackjack號之後。衝線後，他們稱：「我們只想樂其中，以及能完成賽事。我意思是，想要完成比賽並不困難，因為天氣有利於我們。我想我們最高風速 只有每小時30 海浬，而二人同時控制賽船，卻需要多一點技術，同時你需明瞭對方所做的一切，及需信任對方。好處是，我們已有多次一同航海的經驗，亦十分了解對方，我們亦 不會對駡，這是十分好的。如大家所料，我們渡過了一個很寧靜的航程。」Philippe稱：「你說這樣，我就答好丫！我說那樣，你也答OK無問題。我比較 喜歡二人一同作賽，因為我們都很了解對方，沒有任何問題。」
IRC高級休閒船組冠軍由Peter Cremer的 Warwick 75 Shahtoosh號奪得，全場總名次亦由2016 年的第13 位跳升至今年得第5位。IRC休閒船組冠軍由首次參加勞力士中國海帆船賽Michael Ashbrook 的Jeanneau Sitka號奪得。
頒獎典禮隨即於現場進行，而官方頒獎禮將於4月份在香港遊艇會舉行。
下屆勞力士中國海帆船賽將於2020 年4月8日舉行。
(資料來源: Yello Marketing/ 「勞力士中國海帆船賽2018」)
Five on debut for Hong Kong Men’s Seven in World Rugby Sevens Qualifier at Cathay Pacific/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens 2018
[Hong Kong, 3 April 2018]: The Hong Kong Rugby Union (HKRU) today announced the final squad to play in the World Rugby Sevens Series Qualifier, held as part of the Cathay Pacific/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens (6-8 April).
Hong Kong coach Paul John hailed the balance in his squad saying, “We had a group that played out in Borneo and we had a group in Shandong and we thought that there were three or four boys who did really well in that Shandong squad. We wanted to give them an opportunity in our hit out against Fiji this past weekend.
“As expected, all of the boys did really well against Fiji and it was a really good exercise for us. We took a while to deliberate over a few tough choices but overall we wanted the balance that we have in this final squad.
“In looking at the overall composition of the squad and who covers what positions and everything – sort of considering if we had to move people about over the weekend, everyone involved in the selection felt that this was the most balanced squad to go with,” John added.
John has selected five players to make their Hong Kong Sevens debuts with U20s standout Max Denmark joining Russell Webb as the two newest faces included in the final group.
“Russell was injured out in Fiji but was playing well up to that point. He has been training well since then and had a decent tournament in Borneo. He has been able to get sevens fit now and what Russell offers is that he is another person that can play a couple of positions for us. He can obviously play 10 and can cover 9 and he kicked off really well both in Fiji and out in Borneo. He has added a few different things to his game really,” said John.
Denmark also brings something unique to the pitch according to John.
“Max has chosen to stay here for a few years and play for Hong Kong and he has gotten fitter and fitter I think in that time. He is a good option for us to cover on the wing and that wide channel. He is a quick young kid and has worked really hard and deserves his spot too,” John added.
Sebastian Brien, Jack Neville and Kane Boucaut will also make their Hong Kong Sevens debuts after figuring prominently in the Hong Kong squad over the last year.
“Those three have really developed quickly. The more tournaments they have played together the more comfortable they look in the environment. They have been adding something to the squad since coming in and have been very consistent in our selection really since after the Hong Kong Sevens last year,” said John
He expects that trend to continue: “Basically, just to continue playing the way they are playing and to express themselves and offer us what they have been offering throughout the Asian Series.
“They have all got more experience now and played more sevens. They have trained well and been threats in attack for us if you like in Asia and out in Fiji and everything. It is just for them to now bring that performance to an exciting environment at the Hong Kong Sevens,” said Paul.
Captain Ben Rimene leads the squad, which also features a host of experienced campaigners like Salom Yiu Kam-shing – marking his ninth Hong Kong Sevens, while Jamie Hood will make his eighth tournament appearance.
Scrumhalf Lee Ka-to, who returned from playing professionally in Japan this season, marks his fifth tournament, while gritty forwards Michael Coverdale and Chris Maize will each be making their fourth Hong Kong Sevens appearance, with fellow grunt Toby Fenn marking his third tournament.
“Ben had a really good end to the 15s season. He has trained hard and is a good leader within the group and him and Hoodie [Jamie Hood] are both decision makers and leaders within the environment. It has been successful for us so far and we wanted to continue that.
“Hopefully, all of the boys will express themselves and do themselves justice on the weekend,” John added.
Hong Kong were handed a tough draw grouped in Pool F with Papua New Guinea, who have played twice on the Series already this season in Sydney and Hamilton; last year’s tournament runners-up, Germany, and another highly experienced sevens outfit in Zimbabwe, the hometown heroes will have their work cut out for them to advance.
Hong Kong will open the tournament in a huge clash with Germany at 13.26 on Friday with a second match later that afternoon against Papua New Guinea (16.50) before their final pool game on Saturday morning against Zimbabwe (10.28).
“The pool stages are all we’re focused on now because it’s a very difficult group. We are more about the first two opponents on Friday and our preparations are focusing on making sure we are comfortable and preparing for what we think that Papua New Guinea and Germany will bring us on day one. We can watch Zimbabwe play two games before we see where we are in that third game really,” said John.
Hong Kong Men’s Sevens Squad – World Rugby Sevens Series Qualifier 2018:
Ben RIMENE (Captain), Salom YIU Kam-shing, Jamie HOOD, Cado LEE Ka-to, Michael COVERDALE, Chris MAIZE, Toby FENN, Kane BOUCAUT*, Jack NEVILLE*, Sebastien BRIEN*, Russell WEBB*, Max DENMARK*.
* Hong Kong Sevens / World Rugby Sevens Series Qualifier debut
(Source: Elite Step Asia/ HKRU)
Roko’s all-Fijian squad eager to win GFI HKFC 10s title for Samurai
Samurai’s Fijian stars impress on first practice day, while UBB Gavekal’s five Fiji Sevens players team up with New Zealanders for defending champions
Hong Kong; April 2, 2018: Fiji Sevens legend Nasoni Roko is desperate to coach Samurai’s all-Fijian squad to victory in this week’s 33rd GFI HKFC 10s after suffering the frustration of a painful defeat in the 2013 final at Hong Kong Football Club.
Roko was part of an all-Fijian Samurai squad that almost beat Penguins in the decider five years ago, but soon after having a try disallowed, they conceded a late try to lose 21-14. Samurai also lost in the final in 2010 to Aliens and in 2016 to Penguins after extra-time.
Roko, who’s still playing competitively, is now determined for the fourth seeds to win the Bill Burgess Cup at their 12th time of trying – 18 years after he made his debut for the UK-based touring side.
“We came so close in 2013. In the last minute, they disallowed a try for one of our teammates and we talk about it a lot, so this year we want to win the first Hong Kong 10s title for Samurai,” said Roko, who still ranks among the top 20 all-time try scorers on the World Rugby Sevens Series with 125.
“I first played for Samurai in 2000 when I was 20 and a young kid on that team, and now it’s 2018 and I am the oldest. I coach Tabadamu in Fiji, but this is my first international tournament as a coach. I’ve brought all the players over from Fiji and it’s a good experience for me to come and coach in this environment.”
Roko, who scored 125 tries on the World Rugby Sevens Series and won the 2005 Rugby World Cup Sevens, is still in great shape and last month helped Tabadamu win the Marist 7s for the fourth successive year.
The 38-year-old said he may play on Wednesday when teams are allowed up to 18 players, versus 16 on Thursday, but is otherwise confident in his squad which includes scrumhalf Emosi Vucago, the former Fiji Sevens captain who scored 98 tries in 181 matches, and 2016 Olympic gold medallist Masivesi Dakuwaqa.
“They are all good,” Roko said. “Most of the players are playing seven-a-side in Fiji. We’ve recently had a big sevens tournament in Fiji, the Marist 7s, and these boys are fit, they are well and we are looking forward to the tournament.”
Samurai are in a tough Pool D with reigning Plate winners Kir Club Pyrenees, whose squad features many players attached to Top 14 clubs in France, Hong Kong-based Taikoo Place Scottish Exiles and newcomers Sedbergh School Old Boys from England.
Samu Bale, Roko’s Tabadamu teammate, will be his rival this week as he returns for defending champions UBB Gavekal after scoring four tries in last year’s GFI HKFC 10s, weeks before he made his Sevens Series debut for Fiji in Paris.
The 25-year-old winger is one of the top seeds’ five contracted Fiji Sevens players along with fellow backs Sakeo Raloa and Leveni Kurimalawai, and forwards Keponi Paul and Vasikali Mudu, who made his Sevens Series debut in Las Vegas in February.
UBB Gavekal captain Nick Smith was delighted to be reunited with Bale and looking forward to linking up with the Fijian contingent especially Raloa, who has been described as “the next sevens star” by former Fiji Sevens coach Ben Ryan.
“I’m very happy to see Samu and the friends he’s brought with him. Raloa is one of the players who has been talked about a lot. He’s going to bring a lot to our team and he’s going to be targeted a lot, but he’s a superstar and everyone knows him,” said Smith, who last year kicked 11 conversions, one penalty and the last-minute drop-kick to beat Penguins 10-7 in the final.
“The Fijians will give us a lot of pace, a lot of tries and a lot of celebrations, that’s for sure. These guys have flair and that’s why we’ve got them here. They’re absolute superstars and everyone enjoys watching them, and it’s going to be great to play with them again.”
The flyhalf was also happy to be reunited with former UBB captain Matt Clarkin, who will be the side’s head coach for the second straight year.
“It’s really good to have Matty back and he’s got the boys working really well together already,” said Smith, one of 11 New Zealanders in the provisional 20-man squad that will be trimmed to 18 for Wednesday. “He brings a lot of experience and has been at Bordeaux many years. He’s a really cool head under pressure.”
Last year, Bale and three other Fiji Sevens backs – Lemeki Tulele, Josua Vici and Glen Cakautini – scored 12 tries between them as UBB Gavekal defied their 11th-seed status to win the Bill Burgess Cup for the first time.
The team won the Bowl on their debut in 2015 and finished runners-up in the third-tier competition in 2016, but last year secured the Fijian quartet with the cooperation of Fiji Sevens coach Gareth Baber.
On Wednesday, UBB will face the star-studded Classic Wallabies, A-Trade Overseas Old Boys and Hunter + Boo East Africans in Pool A.
GFI has title sponsored the event since 2006. Other sponsors and suppliers for 2018 include Natixis (Gold Sponsor), AIA, Allied World, BT, DHL, Q-Net and Taikoo Place (Silver Sponsors), CBRE, EY and Markel (Bronze Sponsors), Last Word Media, Volvo (Official Car), Grolsch (Official Beer) and Samurai Sportswear (Official Apparel).
The Official Charity is the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, created in support of former Scotland and Lions lock Doddie Weir who is suffering from Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
Inaugurated in 1986 to celebrate Hong Kong Football Club’s centenary, the GFI HKFC 10s has long attracted the game’s top players including seven All Blacks who won the 2015 Rugby World Cup – Conrad Smith, Jerome Kaino (both 2003), Ben Smith, Charlie Faumuina (both 2008), Beauden Barrett, Sam Cane (both 2010) and Nehe Milner-Skudder (2013).
33rd GFI HKFC 10s 2018: Pool Stage
Seeding in brackets
Pool A: UBB Gavekal (1), Classic Wallabies (8), A-Trade Overseas Old Boys (12), Hunter + Boo East Africans (16)
Pool B: Turkish Airlines Penguins (2), Projecx Waterboys (7), Irish Vikings (11), Natixis HKFC (15)
Pool C: Tradition YCAC (3), King’s College sponsored by Strategic Equity Alliance (6)
CCIG Tigers (10), Devil’s Own Shanghai Silver Dragons (14)
Pool D: Samurai International (4), Kir Club Pyrenees (5), Taikoo Place Scottish Exiles (9) Sedbergh School Old Boys (13)
Schedule: www.hongkongtens.com/match.php
Tickets: www.ticketflap.com/gfihkfc10s2018
Times: Wed, April 4: 9.30am-8.30pm; Thu, April 5: 9.00am-7.30pm
(Source: i3 Sports/ Hong Kong Tens)
FORMULA E BACK IN THE BIG APPLE ON STREETS OF MANHATTAN TO OPEN NEW YORK AUTO SHOW
Panasonic Jaguar Racing driver Nelson Piquet Jr. leads electric vehicle parade in Formula E car to launch NYIAS
‘I LOVE THIS CITY AND I HAVE ENJOYED THE OPPORTUNITY TO PROMOTE ELECTRIC VEHICLES LIKE THE NEW JAGUAR I-PACE AND LAUNCH THE RACE RETURNING TO BROOKLYN. NEW YORK IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR THE FINALE OF THE ABB FIA FORMULA E CHAMPIONSHIP IN JULY.’, Nelson Piquet Jr. Panasonic Jaguar Racing
NEW YORK CITY, USA (March 31, 2018) – Formula E hit the streets of the Big Apple to launch this year’s edition of the New York International Auto Show, marking the first time the official championship car has run on the roads of Manhattan ahead of the Qatar Airways New York City E-Prix on July 14 & 15 – the final two rounds of the 2017/18 ABB FIA Formula E Championship.
The fully-electric Formula E car led a fleet of electric vehicles along 11th Ave. to the Javits Center on the west side of New York with season one champion and Panasonic Jaguar Racing driver Nelson Piquet Jr. behind the wheel.
Running parallel to the Hudson River and the backdrop of Midtown Manhattan and the Empire State Building, the parade also featured the Jaguar brand’s first all-electric vehicle – the Jaguar I-PACE performance SUV.
The Jaguar I-PACE will arrive at retailers later this year. A modified race-ready version is set to make its debut in a new all-electric support series alongside races in the ABB FIA Formula E Championship next season – titled the Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY.
The ABB FIA Formula E Championship is returning to Red Hook in Brooklyn for the second time after the inaugural event last summer, where Formula E made history with the first FIA-sanctioned single-seater race taking place within the five boroughs of New York City in modern history.
As part of a long-term vision to make the Brooklyn waterfront Formula E’s home in New York, the cars will navigate a slightly different route this year – with an extension to the track in a bid to cater to the next generation of faster and more efficient cars next season, together with adding further overtaking opportunities.
Subject to new track homologation, instead of taking the sharp hairpin at Turn 6 the drivers will now tackle a left-right complex at the North end of the circuit – adding four extra corners and lengthening the track to 1.52-miles (2.45-km).
Tickets for the season finale of the 2017/18 ABB FIA Formula E Championship in New York go on sale next week on April 3. Grandstand tickets are priced at $85 per day or $150 for a combined weekend ticket. Children aged 12 and under can enter for free and students can watch all the action from $55 per day or $95 for both races.
Fans attending the New York Auto Show this weekend can purchase tickets early by using a promotion code available at the dedicated Formula E stand at booth 1522 on level 1.
Don’t miss the chance to witness the title-decider and the champion being crowned – as well as catching a last glimpse of history, with the swansong of the current iteration of Formula E cars in the heat of battle before the introduction of the Gen2 model for next season.
Nelson Piquet Jr, Panasonic Jaguar Racing driver, said: “To be the first to drive the Formula E car on the streets in Manhattan has been a lot of fun. I love this city and I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to promote electric vehicles like the new Jaguar I-PACE, our first all-electric performance SUV, and launch the race returning to Brooklyn. The new track layout will make the racing more competitive and New York is the perfect place for the finale of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship in July. I’m looking forward to fighting for more points for Panasonic Jaguar Racing and racing to the flag in my all-electric Jaguar I-TYPE 2.”
(Source: FIA Formula E)