WC trophy hits China
Rugby’s most prestigious prize, the Webb Ellis Cup, has arrived in Shanghai for a two day visit as part of the Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour.
The Trophy Tour is visiting 15 countries over 12 months as part of a celebration of Rugby in the lead up to Rugby World Cup 2015.
Previous destinations have included Japan, Australia, Fiji, Madagascar, South Africa, Argentina, Uruguay, USA and the UAE.
The Trophy has arrived from a two day visit to Hong Kong and will visit a number of locations in and around the city.
“We are pleased to be able to bring the Webb Ellis Cup to Shanghai. With Rugby a developing sport in China, I hope the visit of the Trophy Tour will help spread the excitement of Rugby World Cup 2015 and increase awareness of the game.” Chief Executive of England Rugby Debbie Jevans said
Rugby World Cup, the third largest global sporting event behind the Olympics and Football World Cup, takes place in England and Cardiff next year between September 18 and October 31.
The Tournament will be hosted in 13 venues in 11 cities across the country.
former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio took the Webb Ellis Cup to Shanghai Rugby Football Club, the largest multinational Rugby club in China.
Here Dallaglio helped run a training session for 70 children from a number of local schools, whilst sharing some Rugby tips and insights with local coaches.
Dallaglio, a Rugby World Cup winner with England in 2003, commented: “It has been a wonderful experience bringing the Webb Ellis Cup to Shanghai Rugby Football Club and to witness the excitement of so many children at seeing the Trophy.
It will hopefully inspire the children to continue playing the game as they grow and if some of the skills on display here today have been anything to go by that would be great news for Chinese Rugby.”
On Friday the Webb Ellis Cup will visit Xuhui No.1 Primary School where pupils will get a chance to see the Trophy up close.
The Trophy will then visit some of the city’s most iconic locations including the China Pavillion and the Pearl Tower.
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