The Hong Kong Rugby Football Union, organizers of the 2003 Credit Suisse First Boston Hong Kong Sevens, has confirmed that the Hong Kong Sevens is continuing as planned.

In the light of the current uncertain health situation, the HKRFU has announced a full ticket refund policy for those Sevens fans opting not to attend. Information on ticket refunds can be obtained through the HKRFU's ticket hotlines on 2504 8299 (Chinese-language) and 2504 8340 (English language).

HKRFU Executive Director Allan Payne said, "The health, safety and enjoyment of our players and spectators at the Hong Kong Sevens are the HKRFU's primary concern. As an added precaution this year in regards to the atypical pneumonia virus, the HKRFU has implemented enhanced public health measures within the Hong Kong Stadium."

These measures include the free issue of face scarves, public announcement and posted public health messages and SARS-specific information, and the provision of additional hygiene points within the stadium. The HKRFU will continue to liase with the Hong Kong SAR Government Health Authorities and will update attendees on the latest available information throughout Sevens weekend.

In addition, the HKRFU, with much regret has cancelled all mini and youth-based rugby and entertainment activities at this year's Hong Kong Sevens. A total of 65 youth and mini rugby games have been cancelled.

The HKRFU is also requesting those members of the public who feel ill to refrain from attending the 2003 Credit Suisse First Boston Hong Kong Sevens and to opt for a refund of their ticket purchase instead.

John Molloy, HKRFU Chairman, confirmed the measures saying, "The HKRFU has taken this decision to meet our international obligations to the teams and several thousand ticket holders for the 2003 Hong Kong Sevens. We leave the choice of attending up to the individual but remain confident of a safe, exciting and enjoyable Hong Kong Sevens in 2003".

The HKRFU have announced two telephone hotlines for information on ticket refunds in 2003. The Hong Kong Sevens will continue as scheduled in 2003, however, the HKRFU are offering full ticket refunds to those who opt not to attend this year's event.

The HKRFU refund policy stipulates a full and complete refund with the presentation of an intact three-day ticket stub. No refund will be granted for those presenting partial ticket stubs.

The Chinese-language ticket refund hotline number is 2504 8299. The English-language ticket refund hotline number is 2504 8340.

The hotlines are operational from today, March 28, 2003.