Sevens set to get the party started

Dubai : With just a week to go to the Emirates airline Dubai Rugby Sevens 2009, everything is set for one of the region's biggest party weekends of the year.

Not only will 161 teams be battling it out on the pitches at The Sevens, but away from the rugby there is a great line-up of entertainment to keep all ages occupied from December 3-5.

As in previous years, there will be a dedicated children's area with plenty of fun activities such as bouncy castles and other inflatable games, the passing challenge, face painting and a creche area for younger kids.

There will also be numerous exciting activities available to older fans. On the pitch, the man who has once again been handed the task of getting the party going is presenter Dave Crane, who will be heading up the team of entertainers at the Dubai Rugby Sevens for the ninth time this year.

Amazing team

"I am blessed to be part of an amazing team. Commentators Kev Scorah and Damien Hopley know the event inside out, and DJ Jeff Price is a master at getting the tunes right and keeping the continuity going," said Crane.

Asked what keeps bringing him back year on year, he said: "It's just the incredible atmosphere. There is no bigger party anywhere else in the Middle East and it's brilliant to be a part of that."

With the tournament celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, there are a few extra features in store including the return of the hugely popular Austin Powers character who will be entertaining the crowds with his on-pitch antics between matches.

"I'm really looking forward to being at the Dubai Rugby Sevens again. It's an exciting tournament with friendly crowds. I love it there and always have a good time," said Gary Brown aka Austin Powers. The always-popular Aggreko Dynamos cheerleaders will also be back this year to entertain the crowds with their acrobatic dance routines on the pitch.

"This year we have some new faces, new songs and some serious gymnasts amongst the group. I can't wait to get my girls out there performing to an awesome crowd and alongside all the fantastic rugby," said Amber Field, director and choreographer of the Dynamos.

After the action comes to an end on Friday December 4, The Million Dollar band will be keeping the party going at the famous Rugby Rock concert in the Rugby Village while it will be over to the Corporate Voice Experience (CVE) — one of New Zealand's favourite cover bands — on Saturday, December 5.