THE much-vaunted return of the South Island Sevens is set to provide a sporting 'wow' factor this summer when around 3,500 athletes descend on the Isle of Wight — almost double the initial estimate.

Centred principally around one of the country's top three rugby sevens events, based in Ryde, the multi-sport extravaganza over the weekend of July 22-23 will also feature crossfit, running, netball, mountain biking, wing foiling, skateboarding, stand-up paddleboarding and beach rugby. 

Hosted by Ryde School, the South Island Sevens showcase rugby sevens sold out within the space of three days.

With representation from Fiji, South Africa, Jamaica and the British Army 7s team, the men’s elite field will be a fan’s dream.

Over the two days, Saturday will feature 16 men's and eight women's elite teams, followed by a 'social' sevens Sunday, featuring 16 men's and eight women's teams.

“To have these sides competing on the Isle of Wight is extraordinary. It’s a fantastic demonstration of what can be achieved when everyone pulls in the same direction,” said its organiser, Chris Fletcher. 

"We’re excited to bring the teams to the Island and Ryde School is the perfect venue, overlooking The Solent."

With three new outdoor courts at the school, the netball event is also set to be popular.
Because the sevens was oversubscribed, Chris explored ways in which the event could grow.

In discussion with Ryde Town Council, Appley Beach was confirmed as the event's second major venue.

Appley will feature an array of additional sporting activities and entertainment, with up to 1,000 athletes predicted to participate in crossfit competition, The NUKU Challenge. 

Organisers expect 130 teams of eight athletes to take part, with the event projected to attract around 1,800 at future editions.

Also featuring will be the Rock2Rock running event, aimed at people of all ages and abilities.

For the youngest runners, aged six and under, there is a junior 200m event, with other runs at 1km, 3km, 5km and 10km on the Saturday, at sunset, followed by a fireworks display.

“The Rock2Rock was last run at Watergate Bay in Cornwall, so it’s a real coup for the Isle of Wight to be hosting it in 2023," said Chris.

Appley will also host rugby fives competitions for elite and social teams; kite foiling demonstrations; and paddleboard racing for all age classes.

There will also be the spectacle of the Nacra 20 Nationals catamaran regatta, in association with Brading Haven Yacht Club, with courses set off Appley.

"From the beginnings of last year's Sevens, we now have a really substantial event for the Isle of Wight, attracting up to 3,500 athletes," said Chris.

Further afield, there will also be mountain biking competitions at Cheverton Farm, Shorwell, and skateboarding at the Canopy Skatepark, Chale. 

"It will be a real Isle of Wight activity weekend — proving the Isle of Wight can deliver elite sport and participation in sport," Chris said. 

Go to southislandsevens.co.uk for more details.