Results from a survey of spectators at the 2010 Hong Kong Sevens, commissioned by the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union, indicate just how much of an impact the Cathay Pacific / Credit Suisse Hong Kong Sevens has on Hong Kong.
The event, one of the most popular weekend sporting events in the world attracts tens of thousands of affluent overseas attendees who not only generate direct economic benefit but also take away an extremely positive impression of the city. Always sold out, the Sevens attracted around 21,600 overseas spectators in 2010, just over 50% of the 40,000-seat capacity of the Hong Kong Stadium.
Overseas spectators expressed high levels of satisfaction with their experience in Hong Kong, with more than nine-tenths (92%) rating it 8, 9 or 10 out of 10. Importantly, 82% felt that the Sevens had enhanced that satisfaction. Asked about their overall satisfaction with the Hong Kong Sevens, more than four-fifths (83%) of spectators gave it 8, 9 or 10 out of 10. Among those who had participated in other international sports events, such as the World Cup, Olympic Games and Wimbledon, comparative satisfaction levels of 8, 9 or 10 out of 10 were reported by 80% of respondents.
An astounding 99% of spectators would recommend the event to friends and relatives, and 86% said they were likely or certain to attend the 2011 Sevens.
Among overseas spectators at the 2010 Sevens, 43% were attending the event for the first time, meaning that, given the high satisfaction levels, the Sevens generates an annual flood of positive experiences of Hong Kong among international travellers – 9,300 new visitors multiplied by large numbers of family, friends and business contacts.
Hong Kong Sevens Rugby Tour
Next year Hong Kong will again be rolling out the red carpet to welcome the rugby world for this tribal gathering. Have a look at some of the packages. Prices will be available closer to the date.
