AFTA UPDATE
INTERNATIONAL sporting events always make the news and are good for the travel industry at a global level, but when one major global sporting event is interrupted by a significant and devastating weather event, unfortunately things become complicated.
I am talking of the latest reports from the Rugby World Cup (RWC) in Japan and the events that have followed Typhoon Hagibis.
Reports are already revealing the significance of the typhoon and the impact upon Japan, and I am sure that our hearts and minds go out to all those caught up in this event at this time.
Sadly, many people have died in this weather event and as the Japanese authorities work tirelessly to contain the situation and rescue people, it is likely that more will perish.
At a time when the pride of a country is on stage both in supporting their own rugby team, but also showcasing the great nation of Japan, these types of events are shocking and we continue to hope for a good outcome for all involved.
From the travel industry’s perspective, this places questions and doubts in people’s minds as to whether they should or should not travel, but reports in are clearly confirming that normality is resuming quickly and the show will go on.
By the show, I mean the RWC, which has had its disruptions due to the typhoon and for all accounts officials have scrambled to keep the process on track and to create a good outcome for all involved.
But as the RWC now moves into quarter-finals, all that is behind the teams and the line-up of games over the weekend ahead will be nail-biting.
England plays Australia, which is always a classic event, and while clearly I will be backing the Wallabies (perhaps not with the house) the eyes of the world hopefully will be able to regain their focus on the tournament in Japan, while respecting the tragedy of the typhoon, but enjoying the world class event that RWC has become.
If you are a tragic like me, you can get all up to date info simply by CLICKING HERE.
We are, as they say, getting to the pointy end of the competition and this weekend will have a big impact on how the finals will take shape. Of course if you are not at all into the rugby, I apologise for this - now might be the time to take a look!