All systems go for Christie Sevens

The 59th edition of the Christie Sevens tournament was officially launched Tuesday at the RFUEA Grounds, with stakeholders, partners, and the Kenya Harlequins management pledging to deliver an exciting and competitive championship, from August 15 to 17.

This year’s event will feature 36 men’s teams and 8 women’s teams, with the opening day (Friday, August 15) hosting the RFUEA Age Grade Tournament before the spotlight shifts in the evening to the veterans’ competition at the Impala Grounds.

 Four veteran sides—KCB, Quins, Nondies, and Leos—are confirmed, adding nostalgia and flair to the weekend. In total, 81 teams, 972 players, and 250 team managers will be involved.

Tournament Director Nekesa Were expressed confidence in delivering a standout edition.

 “There will be no exception for this year’s Christie Sevens—we’ve added the veterans’ tournament and have lined up electrifying entertainment to make it more than just rugby,” she said.

Kenya Harlequins chairperson Victor Sudi underscored the need to build on the event’s legacy. “Our focus is to strengthen this tournament and leave it in a good place for others to progress. We’ve invited Uganda’s select side, Ruga Ruga, and plan to bring in more foreign invitational teams and players for future editions of the longest-running sevens circuit,” he noted.

Director of Rugby Joel Nganga, speaking on behalf of the host team, emphasised competitive readiness. “We are well prepared to give fans a high-quality tournament in both the men’s and women’s divisions, working hard to improve on the performance from our last edition” he assured.

The defending overall National Sevens Circuit champions, Kenya Harlequins, will be keen to turn around their form after underwhelming performances in the Driftwood and Prinsloo legs.

The competition will also see top rivals Kabras Sugar RFC—last year’s Christie Sevens winners—back in the hunt, alongside women’s defending champions Impala Roans RFC.

With a blend of elite competition, veterans’ flair, and entertainment off the pitch, organisers are confident the 59th Christie Sevens will live up to its billing as one of Kenya’s premier rugby events.