Bangkok--14 Feb--Francom Asia The Raimon Land Bangkok International Rugby Tens 2008 has placed Bangkok at the centre of Southeast Asian rugby, as it continues to attract unprecedented levels of interest. With 24 teams competing from as far a field as Thailand, South Africa, Australia and Canada, turnout is expected to be the highest ever in the competition's three year history, which takes place on 23-24 February at Bangkok Pattana School. Key personalities include ex-internationals South Africans Bobby Skinstad and Robbie Fleck, Australians Warwick Waugh and David Fitter, plus tournament friend Tongan Willie Lose. Raimon Land has sponsored the event since its 2006 inception as part of the company’s drive to Thailand as the region’s key sporting destination. Raimon Land’s ability to tap into the international sporting community has been key to this. Raimon Land Chief Executive Officer Mr Nigel Cornick said: “Raimon Land continues its commitment to promoting worthwhile sporting endeavours through the sponsorship of the Bangkok International Rubgy Tens. “As Southeast Asia's number-one rugby event it demonstrates that Thailand is not only a fantastic lifestyle sports destination, but that the Kingdom provides a platform for developing key youth sport programmes as well.” The Bangkok Tens also focuses on the development of youth rugby in the region, and expects to top last years turnout of 500-plus competitors at the junior competition. Event Founder and Chairman of the Bangkok Ten's committee, Mr Eddie Evans added the tournament had grown incredibly because its offers a structured and organised platform that showcases rugby from all over the globe. “With the added benefit of attracting ex-internationals, this has resulted in further wide exposure for the tournament, not only in Thailand, but around the world. We are indebted to Raimon Land for its support in developing this event.” Raimon Land continues to sponsor rugby teams throughout the Kingdom. The Raimon Land International Rugby Tens is part of a broader range of sports and community programmes the company supports including sailing, polo, golf and Australian Rules PRESS ENQUIRIES : Walaiklao Kumwong Raimon Land Public Relations C/O Francom Asia PR Tel: 02 233 4338 or 39 Fax: 02 236 8030 E-mail: [email protected] Kwanrudee Maneewongwatthana Vice President Communications Raimon Land PLC 22nd Floor, The Millennia Tower 62 Langsuan Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel : +66 (0) 2651-9600 to 4 Fax : +66 (0) 2651-9614 E-mail : [email protected]