December 3 - Canada today made history in women's rugby, claiming the first ever International Rugby Board (IRB) Women's Sevens Challenge Cup in Dubai.
The Canadians produced a display of pace and power to beat England 26-7 and capture the title at the eight-team tournament.
The eight-team tournament, played alongside the men's at the second round of the HSBC Sevens World Series, was the first IRB-sanctioned women's sevens event and has been heralded a key landmark in the evolution of the women's game en route to the 2016 Olympics in Rio.
The Canadians were far too strong for their neighbours and great rivals United States, cruising to a 36-0 win in their semi-final, and then withstood England's early pressure before posting a convincing victory.
England had won a close-fought battle 12-10 with Australia in their semi final.
"Together with our member unions we have always had a strong commitment to grow the game but we now have a strategic goal to host exceptional events and provide a global competition framework to ensure the increased competitiveness and standards of elite women's rugby," said Susan Carty, IRB Women's Development Manager.
By Duncan Mackay
Source: www.insidethegames.biz