After 3 Vintage Rugby Carnivals in a row in the southern hemisphere organisers thought it was time to head north in search of some different scenery, sea, beaches and sunshine to compliment the rugby. With that in mind the fifth World Vintage Rugby Carnival will be staged in Hawaii from September 23 - 30, 2012.
The 7-day Carnival will be just that - a Carnival in paradise which includes 3 playing days, two huge social functions and an exciting optional mid-week trip. Plus - there will be a comprehensive sightseeing and activity programme. And of course every night there will be any number of dining and social options all within walking distance of your accommodation.
The Carnival will provide the chance for teams, players and referees to enjoy games in the Vintage Rugby style against teams from all over the world. It offers the opportunity for players over the age of 35 (two men's sections - Over 35 and Over 46) to scrum, ruck and maul with their mates from around the world - one more time.
The first World Vintage Rugby Carnival was staged in Limerick in 2004 and followed by highly successful carnivals in Buenos Aires in 2006, Christchurch in 2008 and Cape Town earlier this year. Now it's Hawaii's turn to host this unique rugby event.
Read on, and welcome to Newsletter No 2 - Take a wander … everything is just a click of the mouse away.
YOUR CHANCE TO ENJOY RUGBY AT WAIKIKI
A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO ENJOY RUGBY IN HAWAII
- Enjoyable Rugby, great company -Vintage Rugby Hawaiian Carnival style - fun and friendship for Players, Teams and Partners.
- To be staged between Sunday September 23 and Saturday September 30, 2012 right beside Waikiki on the island of O'ahu.
- You and your team can be an integral part of the 5th World Vintage Rugby Carnival and join the growing Vintage Rugby Fraternity of rugby players of all ages (over 35), experience, skills and agility and have fun on and off the pitch against wonderful people and teams.
- Games will be played just a stone's throw from the beaches of Waikiki with enough scenery to excuse anybody taking their eye off the ball ! So there is no excuse - you can play as much rugby as you like or learn to surf, hula, make a lei or play the ukulele or simply embrace the unique Hawaiian culture and feel the spirit of Aloha.
CARNIVAL WEEK HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE ...
A full program has been designed to allow players and their wives and partners time to explore Waikiki and the surrounding city of Honolulu and to soak up the unique blend of history and natural beauty.
Visitors will be able to take in the museums, art galleries and royal residences, enjoy the history of Pearl Harbor or savour the fresh flavours of Hawaii's ‘Regional Cuisine' while hunting for arts and crafts in local markets and for international brands at renowned shopping outlets.
The 7-day Carnival includes 3 playing days, two huge social functions (a 3-hour cocktail party and a 5-hour final dinner), an exciting optional midweek trip and a comprehensive sightseeing and activity programme. To read the full day-to-day programme click here.
CARNIVAL PACKAGES ARE GOOD VALUE
The packages prepared for the Hawaii Carnival represent excellent value. There are 3 Carnival ground package categories and 47 options (based on occupancy) to choose from.
The photo is taken from one of the Carnival Hotels showing how close the Kapolani Park is.
The costs are very reasonable and vary depending on the level of accommodation chosen by the team.
Package prices are per person and quoted in US dollars. All packages are subject to availability.
| |
Twin |
Triple |
Quad |
| GOLD |
| Waikiki Beach Marriott |
City View |
1745 |
1625 |
1545 |
| Partial Ocean View |
1865 |
1685 |
1605 |
| Ocean View |
1995 |
1765 |
1650 |
| SILVER |
| Aston Waikiki Sunset |
Standard Room with Kitchen |
1570 |
1300 |
1165 |
| Aston Waikiki Banyan |
Standard Room with Kitchen |
1570 |
1300 |
1165 |
| Aston Waikiki Beach (B) |
Standard Room Run of Ocean |
1650 |
1525 |
1475 |
| BRONZE |
| Park Shore |
Standard Room |
1325 |
1165 |
1065 |
| Ocean View |
1545 |
1295 |
1175 |
| Ocean Resort |
City View |
1295 |
1225 |
|
| City View with Partial Kitchen |
1345 |
1165 |
1035 |
| Queen Kapiolani |
City View |
1325 |
1185 |
1080 |
| Diamond Head View |
1385 |
1220 |
1110 |
| Diamond Head View with Partial Kitchen |
1435 |
1275 |
1145 |
| Partial Ocean View |
1495 |
1345 |
1175 |
| Partial Ocean View with Kitchen |
1555 |
1375 |
1175 |
| Ocean View |
1615 |
1415 |
1205 |
(B) - Prices include full continental breakfast
What You Get for Your Money
ENTER NOW TO BE IN THE HAWAIIAN SUNSET CRUISE ENTRY DRAW
We strongly suggest that teams register as soon as possible. Initial reaction to the announcement about Hawaii 2012 has been very favourable and we expect many entries to be received once this information has been distributed. We also have a limit on the number of teams we can accept.
There is also another very good reason to enter now ..... Sail along Oahu's beautiful coastline with Outrigger Catamaran and enjoy an Hawaiian Sunset Cruise in the Hawaiian tradition! Let the trade winds take you as you sail along picturesque Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head Crater, and Black Point. Yes this fantastic Hawaiian experience could be your team's to win as the ‘early bird' prize which must be won by one of the teams who register for the 2012 Carnival prior to April 30, 2011. The prize includes a 90 minute sunset cruise for the whole team (max 40 people) on the 45 foot Outrigger Catamaran which is equipped with two 40 HP Honda engines, a digital Bose sound system, custom fitted “spectra nets” for lounging, luxury mid-deck seating, a bar and lifeguard certified crew. Beverages will be complimentary.\ See what this catamaran can really do when she stretches her sea legs - read more here. To be in to have a chance to win this great prize and secure your team's place in the Carnival all you need to do is register before April 30, 2011.
SO START YOUR PLANNING FOR HAWAII 2012 NOW - IT WILL BE FANTASTIC
- Enter on-line here through our secure facilities (link to registration page).
- Download an entry form and mail or fax your entry to us.
Please let us know if you have any difficulty and we will mail you an entry form which can be completed and mailed or faxed back to us.
GAMES WILL BE PLAYED AT KAPIOLANI PARK
Matches will be played on 5 rugby pitches at Queen Kapiolani Park under majestic Diamond Head and a stones throw from the world famous beaches of Waikiki. Kapiolni Park will be transformed to provide a real ‘carnival' atmosphere. The Hawaii Harlequins RFC will be using all their experience gained through hosting many international rugby tournaments to ensure a smoothly organised event. Post match hospitality (also at the park) will provide the unique opportunity to mix with all the teams as you watch the sun going down on one of the most famous beaches in the world!
Click here to view a layout of Kapiolani Park including the fields and the Carnival Hotels.
Carnival Hotels are shown on the left with Kapiolani Park within easy walking distance.
The Hawaii Rugby Union is also very excited about Vintage Rugby coming to Hawaii - read their message
HOST CLUB'S SPECIAL POEM
The Hawaii Harlequin RFC offers a rugby poem to all Vintage Rugby Players and the promise of better things to come in 2012.....
Hawaii Harlequins Rule,
As our rugby is cool,
Our parties you'll find,
Leave others behind.
Our tournaments are great,
But you'll all have to wait,
As there's Two years or more,
To arrive on our shore,
To play with your buddy
Without getting muddy
To score a few tries,
Without your demise.
You can sit in sand,
A beer in your hand.
Then on to the bars,
To show off your scars,
Keep an eye on your mate,
Or he'll be out too late.
I bet you can't wait,
To get to our state.
So while you'll have snow
Its important to know,
That Hawaii Harlequins Rule,
Have a great Yule!
HOTELS WILL BE WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF FIELDS
Carnival organizers have reserved an excellent range of quality hotels which are grouped close together - to suit everyone's needs and budget - some with dramatic views of Diamond Head or the ocean and many with self-catering kitchens or kitchenettes. All properties have been inspected and are of excellent quality and are close to shops, restaurants, bars and medical services.
The 7 hotels selected are centrally located in Waikiki and within easy walking distance to Kapiolani Park and the social functions.
Follow the links for a full description of the selected hotels
GOLD
SILVER
BRONZE
WELCOME TO PARADISE
The Hawaiian Islands provide a unique paradise blessed with excellent weather, breathtaking beauty, cultural diversity and, of course, the Aloha Spirit. Each Island's unique geography provides awe-inspiring natural wonders - from the active volcano, Kilauea, on Hawaii's Big Island to the waterfalls cascading from the sea cliffs on Molokai's North Coast.
For rugby players looking for beautiful and warm crystal water (between matches), Hawaii is the perfect destination. Swimming, surfing, bodysurfing, body boarding, windsurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, Kayaking, fishing charters, whale watching and submarine cruises are just some of the water activity choices.
The 2012 Carnival will be based on the Island of O'ahu. Of all the Hawaiian islands, O'ahu may be the most diverse, providing an eclectic mixture of activities and attractions. Honolulu offers the big-city charm of entertainment, fine dining and culture.
Nearby Waikiki (where the teams will be staying and games will be played) is the heart of Honolulu's visitor experience. Known for its world-class hotels, vibrant nightlife, great shopping and dining, Waikiki continues to be steeped in history and its cultural roots. Live Hawaiian entertainment, Hawaii regional cuisine, oceanfront fine dining, surf lessons and of course the famous sands of Waikiki Beach - look for the Waikiki Beach Boys and experience the thrill of surfing as you join them for a surfing lesson or outrigger canoe ride.
Just a short drive takes you to charming country communities bordered by towering mountains and lush rain forests. On the way you'll discover miles of uncrowded coastline dotted by over 50 beaches, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and surfing.
How friendly are the Hawaiian Islands? Click here and watch a video of Miss Hawaii inviting the Vintage Rugby fraternity.
Whether you are 35 or 80+ Vintage Rugby players are in for an unforgettable experience in 2012.
HAWAII BROCHURES ARE AVAILABLE
Brochures about Hawaii are available on request. The official Carnival entry brochure is also available and loaded on the website.
To view or download >>>
To request brochures just send this email to the Vintage Rugby Office >>>
Navidad Feliz, Noël Heureux, Noël Heureux, Natale Felice, Gelukkige Kerstmis, Joyeux Noël et Bonne Année, Mele Kalikimaka HAPPY CHRISTMAS !!
No matter what the language - it means the same thing - the management and staff of the World Vintage Rugby Office extend their very best wishes to Vintage Rugby players and their families all over the world for a very happy Christmas. May the joy and peace of Christmas be with you throughout this wonderful season and may 2006 bring you continuing prosperity and good health.
We have received a number of other Christmas messages that we'd like to share with you……
Mele Kalikimaka” this means Merry Christmas in Hawaiian, and the people of Hawai‘i look forward to sharing their islands and their culture with Vintage Rugby participants and supporters in 2012. Darragh Walshe - Hawaii Tourism
The Archiball Association, USA would like to wish all Vintage Rugby players and their families the merriest of Christmases and hope the New Year is fruitful. We are excitedly anticipating our next get together in Honolulu 2012. Mahalo to Vintage Rugby. Bill Welsh, Augusta, Georgia, USA.
Merry Xmas from the Canterbury Baa Baa's and we all hope you have a safe and restful break. Remember to cherish the times you have with family and friends, especially at this time of year and most importantly remember the team mates that can't be with us. We will be having a beer or two and reminising on a great carnival in Cape Town and can't wait until Hawaii. Merry Xmas and a Slurpee New Year. Trevor Holder, Canterbury Baa Baa's, New Zealand.We will be having a beer or two and reminiscing on a great tournament in Cape Town and can’t wait till Hawaii. Merry Xmas and a Slurpee New Year. Trevor Holder, Christchurch, New Zealand.
Team Hawaii Sports will be busier than Santa and all his elves next year laying the ground work for the best Vintage Rugby Carnival ever. So have a great Christmas and not to worry next year as all will be ready for your arrival in Paradise, September 2012. Mele Kalikimaka (merry xmas) and Hau'oli Maka Hiki Hou (happy new year). From the team, Cormac, Norman, Trish, Corinne and Lisa.
The Bustard Eagles are spread across the continents of the world, experiencing all seasons at the same time. Yet is always a pleasure to celebrate the holidays and share some of the traditions of mankind with each other. It is only a short time since we were together, however The Bustards are keen to meet up again.We take this opportunity to wish you and your a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, healthy, rugby fun filled New Year. David Morgan, Queensland, Australia.
Aloha Vintage Rugby,Mele Kalikimaka (merry xmas) and Hauoli Lahanau (happy new year). E komo mai VINTAGE RUGBY(welcome) HAWAII 2012.Mahalo nui loa. David Ma'af Wendt. President of Rugby Hawaii Union/ Hawaii Youth Rugby.
Superbly filled with joy by our South African expedition, Les Helvetes de Geneve will not forget this year 2010. It was with unconcealed pleasure that we extended in 2010 the barbarians' team of Helvètes with new "characters" so inevitable to ensure continuity in our togetherness."Rien de rien" sung by Richard has made us forget Piaf whilst across the vast plains of Rugby our hearts unite and resound, as never before, with friendship and fraternity.It is with this emotion that the Helvètes de Genève committee wishes all Vintage Rugby Players and their families a merry Xmas and best wishes for 2011. Nicolas Valko - Les Helvètes de Genève, Switzerland.
Dear Vintage Rugby and Participants of the 2012 Vintage Rugby Carnival,We hope you all have a great Christmas and New Year.We look forward to seeing you soon enough. Alex Stokes, Vice President, Hawaii Harlequins RFC.
The Burleigh Bodgies sincerely wish all Vintage Rugby players and their families a very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year. Our team is still talking about what a great time we had in Cape Town. Whilst not our first overseas carnival, it was the first World Vintage carnival we have attended, and we are really keen on Hawaii in 2012. To all the teams we met and played against in Cape Town have a merry Christmas and we hope to see you again in Hawaii. Any teams visiting the Gold Coast, Queensland are most welcome to contact us and join us for a beer at the Tree Tops Tavern where we do raffles every Friday night.Ian Davis: 61 7 55 200 579, Email: imdavis1@bigpond.com.
On behalf of the Hawaii Harlequins Old Boys we wish you a warm Aloha from the slopes of Diamond Head and the beaches of Waikiki. As we say in the islands, Mele Kalikimaka and Hau'oli Maka Hiki Hou - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We're excited to host you on our beautiful island and we look forward to making new friends from around the world.May your time be filled with relaxing sunsets, cool drinks and sand between your toes...oh, a little rugby in between! Aloha! John MacGregorn - President.
Fellow vintage rugby venerables, have an absolutely Rumrucking time this festive season. May all of you, and your families, enjoy the season to be silly and let us hope you survive through to the new year and beyond. Seeing you on the paddock … Ken Martin - Rumruckers Bundaberg Queensland Australia.
To all our Vintage Family we would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and hope 2011 finds you fit and healthy !Thanks to all those who made Cape Town such a great time for us.Please take care over this festive season as we want to see you all again in Waikiki !!! Geoff Phillips - Brisbane Budgies.
YOU HAVE TO SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT - ENJOY THIS SELECTION OF IMAGES OF HAWAII
Follow this link to view images of Hawaii
WE WILL KEEP YOU UPDATED ABOUT VINTAGE RUGBY AND THE 2012 WORLD VINTAGE RUGBY CARNIVAL IN HAWAII….
Your next issue of the Vintage Rugby newsletter will be sent later next month and will feature more details about Hawaii.