From November 12 to 14, the fast-paced Rugby Sevens tournament at the 15th National Games unfolds at Kai Tak Sports Park Stadium in Hong Kong. Amid the roar of the crowd and the thrill on the pitch, one question guides every decision: "Is there a smile on our audience's face?"
John Sharkey, CEO of Kai Tak Sports Park, leads a multidisciplinary team focused on seamless integration of operations. "The most important thing is to keep observing people’s faces. If they’re smiling, we know we’re getting it right," he says.
Behind the scenes, meticulous planning meets real-time data insights. Weeks before the opening whistle, the team ran trial events, fine-tuned crowd flow with digital simulations, and collaborated with city authorities on transport schedules. At the venue, smart sensors and mobile dashboards monitor foot traffic, while on-the-ground staff adjust queuing zones on the fly.
Coordination extends beyond the stadium gates. By syncing match schedules with bus and train timetables, the operations team minimizes wait times and eases pressure on city logistics. A dedicated control room processes live feeds—from CCTV cameras to social media mentions—to tackle bottlenecks before they even arise.
For athletes, organizers and fans alike, this logistical choreography sets the stage for high-voltage clashes and unforgettable moments. As the Rugby Sevens tournament continues through November 14, Kai Tak Sports Park showcases how innovation, teamwork and attention to detail can turn a sporting event into a flawless experience.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
