The International Rugby Board announced the selection of the first two participating unions for the rugby sevens tournament at The World Games 2009 in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei, next July.

“The IRB is delighted to announce the selection of China and Chinese Taipei as the first two unions confirmed for The World Games 2009,” said IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset. “Both are emerging nations in terms of international rugby sevens competition and as a further step in their rugby progression both competed in the IRB’s flagship Sevens World Series this year.”

Commenting from Beijing where he is attending the Olympic Games with IRB Chief Executive Mike Miller, Lapasset added: “This decision further illustrates the IRB’s commitment to expand the sport on a truly global basis, a goal that underpins our ambition to secure the reintroduction of rugby into the Olympic Games”.

Ron Froehlich, President of the International World Games Association, believes that the inclusion of two emerging Asian rugby nations will add to the renowned international flavor of the World Games.

“We are pleased to be welcoming two new nations to compete in the World Games Rugby Sevens Tournament in 2009,” Froehlich said. “The tournament has grown to become a highlight of The World Games sporting program, providing an exciting spectacle for fans and participants alike. The inclusion of two such important Asian nations in the rugby sevens tournament can only add to the growing global appeal of The World Games.”

Liu Rongyao, China Rugby Football Union Secretary General, added: “Having China’s national rugby team participating in The World Games will drive the development and growing popularity of rugby in our country. Our inclusion in such a prestigious event will help to raise awareness of the sport and also support our goal of achieving long-term sustainable growth of rugby in China, a sport that already speaks to millions worldwide.”

Mr Carlson Lin, Vice President of the Chinese Taipei Rugby Football Union, said: “Having The World Games in Kaohsiung will benefit sport in general in the community through promotion, recognition and competition. Having rugby in The World Games has opened up many opportunities for rugby players as they can improve themselves by playing against the best in the world and with the support of the authorities are better able to achieve their goals."