A total prize money of $48, 800 will be up for grabs at the 49th Fiji Bitter Marist Sevens tournament from March 20-22 at the HFC Bank Stadium, Suva.

This was revealed yesterday by tournament chairman Lawrence Tikaram during their sponsorship signing and launch with Paradise Beverages.

Tikaram acknowledged the makers of the Fiji Bitter for their longstanding partnership.

The total men’s competition prize money is $27,750 with the winner walking away with $10,000. The women’s champion will be awarded $4500 while the Under-18-U21 winner will take home $5500. The U18 boys and girls champions will win $1500 each.

The Main Cup men’s and women’s best players will receive $400 each while the best players from both U18 grades will be awarded $350 each. The best player for the U18-21 grade will win $350.

Tikaram said: “The dedication of Paradise Beverages and Fiji Bitter has helped the Marist Sevens into more than just a tournament– it’s celebration of our sporting culture, talent, community spirit and unwavering grassroots rugby.

“It has been instrumental in the development of rugby sevens n Fiji. The tournament has provided a platform for emerging players to showcase their talent.”

He added they would also collaborate with key stakeholders including the Ministry of Health, Fiji Police Force Drug Taskforce and Land Transports Authority to create awareness on the rise of HIV cases, Drug Abuse, Road Safety.

They will also engage key Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Fiji on their sustainable recycling programme.

Paradise Beverages general manager Mike Spencer said they were proud to be part of the 49th Marist Sevens.

“This longstanding partnership not only reflects our commitment to supporting the growth of rugby in Fiji but also promoting sustainability and community initiatives,” he said.

“We believe in providing opportunities for players to break through and achieve their full potential and the Marist Sevens is an incredible platform for that.”

Spencer added many players were scouted at the Marist Sevens by national selectors and went on to represent Fiji in the national sevens side.

Team registrations

While the tournament is still more than a month away, team are rushing to book their spots. Team from as far as Lakeba, Lau have booked their spot.

Yesterday Tikaram said the Under-18 boys grade has been fully booked while there are only four available spots for the U18 girls.

13 spaces are available for the U18-21 category, 23 spots taken in the main cup teams with 28 spots remaining to be filled.

The senior women’s category is only left with six spaces, three teams have registered so far.

Tikaram urged teams to pay full registration fees to be given a spot.

“If you paid a partial registration that does not mean you’re registered and qualified for the Marist 7s.”

“The deadline for registration is on March 7 or when the spots are filled. If the spots are filled come February next week then March 7 does not qualify anymore.”

Meanwhile, the women’s final will be held on Friday night to provide the teams with full support and encourage greater participation at the grassroots level.

All U18 games will be played on Saturday while the U18-21 games will be played over the three days.

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj