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Dubai: Linda Gordon has counted in all 165 teams ready to take part in the 2005 Emirates Airline Dubai Sevens ? and she is now ready for a decent night's kip. The Dubai Exiles official had only five hours sleep in three days after burning the midnight oil at the airport, welcoming teams and ensuring all paperwork was in order on top of long days in the busy tournament office. Gordon said: "I've never had to do that before, it's a definite first in 18 years." But with everyone now safely in place it's all systems go for an event which kicks off today with matches in 10 social competitions ahead of the IRB action, which runs concurrently tomorrow and Friday.
Much attention will be focused on the International Invitation, which last year witnessed a barnstorming final between a Waisale Serevi-inspired South Sea Drifters and rugby league powerhouse St Helens. Neither team is here this time round but it remains a quality competition. There are two new events this year. The International Ladies competition looks set to be a close-run affair while the international under-19 tournament features some of the teams.
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