Jay Whyte, the founder of the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens, emphasized the significant history of the tournament, which has evolved from a grassroots initiative into a prominent rugby event in the region. He noted that the tournament has consistently made an impact both on the field and off by hosting renowned athletes and discovering local talent.
Key moments have played a crucial role in shaping the tournament’s identity, according to Whyte. He recalled the landmark presence of rugby legends David Campese and Sir Bryan Williams as ambassadors in 2011, as well as the participation of the late Jonah Lomu the following year, which he described as a profoundly special occasion. Whyte remarked on Lomu’s humility and grace, describing him as a “gentle giant.”
Further highlighting the tournament’s impact, Whyte mentioned the remarkable performance of the Navosa-based Yamacia team in 2013, which marked their arrival on the international scene. This success led to three players from the team being selected for Fiji’s national squad under then-coach Ben Ryan, who later helped the team deliver an unforgettable 40-0 victory against New Zealand in Dubai following their Coral Coast appearance.
He also pointed out the significance of local club successes, such as Taveuni’s title victory in 2017, as testaments to the event’s role in inspiring local teams to realize their potential on global platforms.
The Coral Coast Sevens tournament is set to kick off on the 15th of this month at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, with live coverage available on FBC Sports. As anticipation builds for this year’s event, there’s a palpable excitement about the legacy and future of the Coral Coast Sevens.