Nairobi, Wednesday 2 November 2011
With the 16th edition of the Safaricom Sevens nearing, more teams are expected in Nairobi ahead of Africa’s premier rugby sevens event which kicks off on Friday 4th November, running to 6th November at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium.
Three teams are already in the country. Belmont Shore from the USA, international touring side Samurai and 2005 champions Samoa all arrived yesterday.Spain were expected in Nairobi early this morning alongside the British Army with Auckland touching down this afternoon. Grenoble and Bristol will arrive early Thursday morning with the Emerging Boks, Zimbabwe, Goshawks and Zambia arriving on Thursday afternoon. Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania arriving Thursday evening.
Safaricom Sevens Participating Teams
1. Kenya
2. Samoa
3. Auckland Vikings
4. Samurai
5. Spain
6. Emerging Boks
7. Bristol University
8. Belmont Shore
9. Zimbabwe
10. Goshawks (Zim 2)
11. Tanzania
12. Uganda
13. Zambia
14. Grenoble
15. British Army
16. Rwanda
About Michael Kwambo
This year’s Safari Seven can be considered a failure even before it starts. Let me explain:
This year’s tournament was moved from July to November so the IRB Teams can use this opportunity to warm up for the circuit. It is clear that this has not been the case. We now have Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia in place or Wales (the world champions), France, Scotland, Russia, Canada, Fiji, Argentina and the like…
Over and above this, should it rain, 80% of the spectators will be soaked… is it worth the chance?
I suggest the tournament best be pushed back to July and at RFUEA… The word “Nyayo” and “sevens” just don’t go together…
Need some Kenyan’s to adopt my local club “Belmont Shore” (also called Tiger Rugby) and support their efforts at the Safari7s. When Kenyan isn’t on the pitch, how about giving them your wonderful Kenyan Rugby Cheers as your 2nd favorite team? I know Kenyan’s have enough love for Rugby to spread some it around.
Thanks & have a great Tournament!
Dave in California