There was a nice change on the horizon at the annual Mudgee Rugby Sevens this year - locals mingled in the winners circle.
Rugby sensation Beau Wilson and Mudgee Wombats player Dave Smith assisted the Gordon side in achieving their dream run, coming through the day undefeated.
Saturday marked the twentieth anniversary of both the Sevens competition and the rugby Clubhouse which was officially opened at the Mudgee Sevens carnival in 1988.
As expected the entire day was a roaring success with teams coming from all over the state to take part
Sevens coordinator Brett Swords said that the day was enjoyed enormously by all.
“The camaraderie on the day was great, every game was played in the right spirit,” Swords said.
Fifty games of sevens were played over the two fields with seven minutes each way and ten minutes each way for the final.
Gordon smashed opposing Parramatta in the final match 40-0 and were very deserving winners of the Oriental Cup $1000 cash prize
Visiting team the Mona Vale Makos took out the Mullet Shield dismissing the Turban Cougars who hailed from Dubbo and Gilgandra.
Local team the Sunnyboys were the best performing Mudgee side and qualified to the semi finals before exiting the competition.
Mudgee Rugby spokesman, Trent Robertson said it was the best Sevens he’s ever seen. Meaning it was miles ahead of last year’s competition and praised everyone involved especially life members Bruce McGregor, Lee Wilson and Ross Smith for their involvement and taking the organising reigns.
“It was good seeing life members getting involved with local rugby again.
“This will definitely be a focus of the club next year,” Robertson said.
Highlight of the day was seeing local youngsters Corin Smith win the newly introduced foot race event where a representative from every team takes part in a running race. Smith beat 23 other competitors and was crowned the first ever winner and was very pleased with himself.
Spectators were given half time entertainment in the form of retired rugby players in the Golden Oldies match between the Mudgee Mud’s and the Orange Emulates.
The players definitely took the opportunity to relive past glories, taking full advantage of being in the spotlight. However players are sure to spend this week nursing a few niggly injuries from muscles that until now were in retirement.
The women’s exhibition games where the Mudgee Wombettes finally defeated the visiting Penrith Shemus side. However newcomers to the scene CSU Bathurst were just too good and went home as the female winners.