Dubai: Over 700 rugby enthusiasts were treated to an afternoon of anecdotes and entertainment as another Emirates airline Dubai Rugby Sevens Long Lunch kicked off the countdown to this year's tournament.
Former rugby internationals Peter FitzSimons and David Duckham proved to be hugely popular as they had the audience at the Grand Hyatt's Baniyas Ballroom rolling with laughter.
Duckham was first to take the stage and kept the audience enthralled with stories of his playing days as well as humorous encounters with several legends of the game. The former winger pulled on an England jersey 36 times and was known for his speed, strength and highly effective sidestepping and was awarded an MBE for his services to rugby in 1977.
"I have only been in Dubai once before but that was 31 years ago. I don't recognise it at all but it's wonderful to be back and to be a part of such a wonderful occasion," said Duckham.
Fascinating event
An animated FitzSimons, meanwhile, described the event as a "carnival of cauliflower ears" and echoed Duckham's excitement about being a part of the Rugby Sevens Long Lunch.
"It's one of those events that I have been hearing about for years as word of it has spread and it is fascinating just to see it, let alone actually be able to speak at it," said the former Australian international whose anecdotes and impressions, complete with sound effects and dramatics, had the audience in splits.
Apart from representing his country in rugby, FitzSimons is a well-known sports columnist, has written 18 books, speaks four languages, interviewed a massive range of personalities from George Bush and Sir Edmund Hillary to Jodie Foster, and presents both TV and radio shows.
By the end of the afternoon's proceedings, the Long Lunch had helped to raise a remarkable Dh 107,000 for the PRA (Professional Rugby Players Association) and Wooden Spoon (supporting mentally, physically and socially disadvantaged children and young people) charities.
For more information on the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens, scheduled to be held at Emirates' new facilities on the Al Ain Road from November 27-29, log on to www.dubairugby7s.com.
