China aim for ‘historical’ moment in rugby sevens Olympic qualifier

This weekend China will play host to the Olympic Games qualifier with one rugby sevens women’s team heading straight to Tokyo.

With World Rugby Sevens Series experience, and having finished second in this year’s Asia Rugby Sevens Series, hosts China are among the favorites to qualify.

China’s Keyi Chen drives through the Fiji defense in Glendale Photo credit: Mike Lee – KLC fotos for World Rugby

Team Manager Jia Jipo has spoken to Asia Rugby about what qualification to the Olympics would mean to her side.

“If we get the qualification for the Olympic Games, this would be a historical time for Chinese Rugby,” said Jipo

“We attach great importance to the tournament and we have prepared a lot.

“This was a long-term process and it was indispensable.”

Sean Horan will coach the women’s side this weekend and his experience could prove decisive if China are to progress.

With the Rugby World Cup in Asia and next year’s Olympics in Tokyo, Asia is a hotbed for development in the sport currently and China will be central to the continued growth.

“The most influential tournament just finished in Asia,” added Jipo.

“Through the occasion and atmosphere, it indicates that rugby is welcomed in Asia. This is a meaningful thing and it will have a great development in a few years.

“Asia countries have hosted the Olympics several times, such as Beijing. As the highest level sporting event, the Olympics influence many aspects of a nation and we hope to be part of it.”

Fixtures and Results >>>> #ARW7sQ

The men’s qualifiers will be hosted by Korea Rugby Union In Incheon South Korea on the 23rd to the 24th of November

Where to watch: The Women’s Qualifiers will be live-streamed on the Asia Rugby Facebook page @Asia.rugby