Pomp and colour as Masaku 7s Rugby tourney kicks off

Masaku Sevens flagging off at the Standard Group
The Managing Editor of the Nairobian Charles Otieno  flags off  mini beatles to the Masaku sevens at the company headquarters along Mombasa road on June 27th, 2015. The Nairobian is a key sponsor of the event. PICTURE; JACOB OTIENO

It is back and with a bang. Pomp and colour marked the opening of the fourth edition of the Masaku Sevens International Rugby tournament slated for June 30-July 5 in Machakos County, which was flagged-off by The Nairobian Managing Editor Charles Otieno and The Standard Group’s Head of Marketing Doreen Mbaya, at the media house’s head office in Nairobi, yesterday.

The colorful event saw the flagging off of a caravan of mini cars signifying the launch of the highly-hyped rugby festival which has attracted over 65 teams.

The Nairobian, a weekly publication under the Standard Group’s stable, is the official media partner of the six-day extravaganza to be staged at the Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos.

With the introduction of free helicopter ride for fans and confirmation of top rugby teams locally and internationally, Otieno assured rugby lovers of an exciting and fun-filled event.

“The Nairobian newspaper is about life. Trust me this is going to be the biggest party and rugby event in Africa. We have organised a first ever foam party that will be graced by top deejays and artists,” said Otieno.

“We will be flying fans to Machakos and, on arrival, each fan will be given a copy of the Nairobian newspaper at the entrance. Unlike the previous editions, we have better organisation and traffic marshalls will be on all roads towards and within Machakos town. Mombasa Road will be one way heading to Machakos,” he said.

Although former Kenya 7s head coach and tournament’s Director, Benjamin Ayimba, confirmed the withdrawal of defending champions Tabadamu from Fiji, he expects a competitive and captivating event.

“Tabadamu are not coming due to unavoidable circumstances but teams from England, France and Uganda have confirmed participation. KCB, Western Bulls and Kabras are among the local clubs expected to compete,” said Ayimba.

“It will be an action-packed event both off and on the field. I am pretty sure the fans will enjoy it,” he said.

Speaking at the same function, Mbaya said she is looking forward to a successful event.

“Both Nairobian and Masaku are great brands and are driven by the youth. More so, when two brands come together, you can be sure the final product will be worth watching,” said Mbaya.

“We are confident of having a more successful event this year.” The draws were due to be conducted yesterday evening in Machakos.

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