The Hong Kong Sevens is “where the world comes to play”.
Seen as the biggest tournament on the World Series calendar, it’s the one trophy that has eluded South Africa up until this weekend.
But when Neil Powell’s men take the field in their first match against Japan at 12.06pm on Friday, they will be aiming to rewrite history.
And seasoned playmaker, Branco du Preez feels there is something special brewing in their camp.
Du Preez says: “Every time you come to Hong Kong, and I have been here a couple of times before, you get that feeling that something is about to happen.
“Each time you step onto the field for the team, representing your country, makes it very special and the crowd makes it even more so.”
Du Preez, 28, adds that he will leave nothing out on the field in their quest to win gold.
EXCITED: Rookie Sako Makata will give it his all. Photo: Melissa Lear.
He says: “My main aim is to make sure I do my job, whether it is starting the match or coming off the bench.
“All of us have different responsibilities, but whatever is expected, I will be giving it at the very best of my abilities.”
The Blitzboks, led by Siviwe Soyizwapi, will take the field with a number of youngsters.
One of those rookies, Sako Makata, says he is in the shape of his life ahead of the tournament.
Makata says: “To be honest, I am in a much better space this year than in 2018 and in a way, happy that I could not make the trip then.
BIG ONE: Neil Powell. Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/Backpagepix.
“This time around, my body is stronger, I had a solid run in the last couple of weeks and I am feeling confident in my abilities.
“That would not necessarily have been the case a year ago, to be honest.”