The 50th Fiji Bitter Marist 7s is expected to be a thriller, with 72 men’s teams battling for the $72,000 prize money during the three-day event at the HFC Bank Stadium.
Marist Club President Lawrence Tikaram says this year, they have expanded the men’s competition three times, starting at 48 teams and then increasing to 60 teams.
He says they have capped it at 72 teams to accommodate the high number of teams showing their interest in participating in this annual event.
Tikaram says all teams will be going home with prizes, even if they lose, with each team receiving a branded Gilbert ball and commendation medals.
He adds that if a grassroots team wins the final of the Marist 7s, they will walk away with an additional $5,000 cash prize.
Meanwhile, Vodafone Fiji has signed on as a telecommunications partner for the Marist 7s.
They will also be giving away prizes during the three-day event, which include recharge cards and phones.
Another promotion Vodafone will be offering fans and supporters is getting 6 Up for every recharge done at the HFC Bank Stadium.
130 teams have confirmed their participation for the Marist 7s, including 72 men’s teams, 12 women’s teams, 34 U21 teams, and 6 U18 boys’ and girls’ teams.
The Marist 7s will kick off on Thursday with the women’s competition, while the men’s competition will start on Friday.
The finals will be held on Saturday.
