World Cup fever hits Cham!
Yesterday the build up to the Rugby World Cup reached new heights as the famous Webb-Ellis trophy came to Chamonix and was raised above the head of Philippe Sella on the summit of Mont Blanc. Swathed in the flags of all 20 qualified nations, the cup was accompanied to the top by a number of rugby professionals (players, referees and trainers). Sella was chosen as he's the most capped player in the history of French rugby (111 times) and so it seemed appropriate that he should be the one to hold the cup aloft. He admitted that the climb to the top was no walk in the park which is hardly surprising as he had his first dalliance with high alpine terrain only the week before!
On returning to Chamonix, the triangle de l'Amitié outside the Tourist Office was choc-a-bloc with young rugby players and fans from across the region, all longing to get an up close glimpse of the winners' trophy. After playing a rousing fanfare to welcome the cup to town, members of the 27th BCA popped their instruments on the floor and treated spectators to a version of the “Haka” which although not quite as scary when performed in knee breeches and berets, was very entertaining all the same!
The Rugby World Cup takes place between 7th September and 20th October 2007.
Photo credit: Le Dauphiné
