Hawaii to Host 2012 World Vintage Rugby Carnival

Got rugby fans? They'll want to go to Honolulu in two years, when Hawaii hosts the 2012 World Vintage Rugby Carnival. The seven-day event is the first of its kind to be held in the United States, and is expected to bring more than 1,500 veteran players and supporters to the islands. 
 
Mike McCartney, president and CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority, said that the Carnival would increase Hawaii's sports presence on a global level and boost the state's tourism economy. "Sporting events such as this not only have a positive economic impact on tourism for our state," he said, "but also generate invaluable media coverage worldwide and enhance our residents' and visitors' quality of life, providing opportunities for enthusiasts to attend, participate or volunteer."
 
More than 60 teams from countries including Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, England, France, Spain, Germany, Australia and South Africa are expected to participate in the 2012 Rugby Carnival. Included in the week-long event are three playing days, two major social functions and island sightseeing and activities.
 
The 2012 Carnival will have two categories for participation, men ages 35-45 years and men ages 46 years and over. Previous carnivals have been held in Ireland (2004), Argentina (2006), New Zealand (2008), and South Africa (2010).
 
For more information on the HTA, visit www.hawaiitourismauthority.org