Christie 7s: Celebrating six decades of rugby excellence in Kenya
By Erick Kariuki |
The Christie 7s, Kenya's oldest rugby tournament, has celebrated six decades of fierce competition and community impact. With recent wins, plans for international expansion, and a legacy of nurturing talent, it remains a cornerstone of Kenyan rugby.
The Christie 7s, named after former Harlequin chair Alex Christie, stands as a cornerstone of Kenyan rugby history. Established in 1964, it is the oldest rugby tournament in the nation, showcasing the evolution and growth of the sport over the decades.
The early years saw teams like Kenya Police and Eldoret RFC dominate, with the 1964 inaugural match setting a high standard for competition. As the years progressed, teams such as Impala and Nondescripts emerged as formidable contenders, frequently battling for the championship title throughout the 1970s.
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This year's tournament, held at the RFUEA grounds in Nairobi, provided a thrilling spectacle for rugby fans. Over the course of two days, teams competed fiercely, culminating in a gripping final match where Kabras Sugar triumphed over the hosts, Kenya Harlequins. The victory added another accolade to Kabras Sugar's impressive record in the Christie 7s.
Kenya Harlequins chair, Victor Sudi, expressed optimism about the future of the tournament. "We now have the ladies' team running alongside the men's Division I and II and the veterans. Our next step is to elevate Christie to an international tournament, offering more value and entertainment to the rugby community in Kenya," he stated.
Last year's Christie 7s was voted the best rugby event, reflecting its significant impact on the local rugby scene. Sudi hinted at upcoming plans to enhance the tournament further. "Our plan is to keep working on Christie and its delivery. We are looking at building the tournament to an international level, bringing more impact to the community," he added.
The Christie 7s has played a crucial role in nurturing local talent, with many players who started their careers in this tournament achieving national and international success. Its influence on the development of rugby in Kenya is undeniable, making it a key event in the country's sports calendar.
As the tournament looks to the future, its legacy of excellence remains strong. With plans to elevate Christie 7s to an international platform, the event is set to reach new heights while continuing to honor its rich history and contribution to Kenyan rugby.
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