The Fiji Bitter Marist 7s has officially been launched, marking the culmination of the Fiji Bitter 7s series. The event took place at the Paradise Beverages Fiji Limited headquarters in Walu Bay, Suva, and was attended by various tournament officials. Among them were Alfaio Tekavei, a specialist in events and sponsorship for Fiji Bitter, Marist Rugby Club President Lawrence Tikaram, and tournament coordinator Kolinio Korovulavula.

This year’s tournament marks the 49th anniversary of the Marist 7s, which Tekavei highlighted as a fantastic opportunity for local teams to showcase their rugby talents in their own community. He encouraged participation from the teams, promising exciting rugby action ahead.

The launch provided an overview of the Fiji Bitter 7s series, which commenced in Kadavu last October and included events held in Wairiki in December. Current standings show BLK Lavidi Brothers leading the men’s division with 674.891 points, followed by Devo Babas with 562.871 points and Police Blue with 553.286 points. In the women’s category, the Wardens are leading at 96.460 points, with the Blue Gas Lilian Amazons and Tagimoucia following behind.

Looking ahead, additional launches for the Nahehevia and Nawaka legs of the series are expected in the coming weeks. This ongoing commitment to grassroots rugby reflects Fiji Bitter’s dedication to fostering community involvement and recognizing local talent. The Marist 7s promises to be a thrilling finale to the series, showcasing the vibrant culture of rugby in Fiji and the spirited competition among its teams.

Overall, the event serves not only as a platform for athletic prowess but also unites communities through a shared passion for rugby, promising an energetic and engaging atmosphere for spectators and participants alike.