This week's World Rugby Classic has defied the odds, reportedly enjoying huge success despite the current gloomy economic outlook and the recent demise of another high profile local sporting event, the XL Tennis Tournament, cancelled for the forseeable future due to a lack of corporate sponsorship.

World Rugby Classic organiser John Kane told the Mid-Ocean News that neither the oncoming recession nor the cancellation of the XL Tennis event has adversely affected this week's tournament.

The World Rugby Classic's corporate sponsors have risen to the occasion, resulting in plenty of companies investing in marquees for their employees, clients and guests to celebrate during and after each match.

"We haven't really seen much of a dip in sponsorship levels; in fact, we've probably seen an increase in support," Mr. Kane (pictured) said.

"Of the 40 available sponsor tents, I believe all but one are taken."

The World Rugby Classic, now in its 21st year, has hosted nine teams over the past week, all comprised of former international players. Teams from Australia, Canada, France, New Zealand, the US, Argentina and South Africa are competing, as well as a team fielded by London insurance giant Lloyd's and, of course, Bermuda's own national team.

Tomorrow evening will see the culmination of this week's annual tournament as the two semifinal winners take to the pitch at the National Sports Centre.

Tonight, however, hundreds of players, fans and fun-loving locals will descend on Barr's Park for the week-long event's unofficial end: the Up-Front Party on the waterfront.

While the World Classic Final and Plate Final will not be held until tomorrow at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. respectively, the tournament's organisers hope Bermudians will turn out in droves tonight to celebrate another successful year for the popular event.

The finale party will start at 7 p.m. at the Barr's Park waterfront in Hamilton. Hungry partiers can dine on a variety of dishes provided by Buzz Catering, or arrive later to see the main event, Canadian cover band Lucky13. Other acts scheduled for tonight include up and coming local band Mohawk Radio and Bermudian musician DJ Paul.

Tickets for tonight's party at Barr's Park cost $30 in advance at the World Rugby Classic grounds or from a member of the Bermuda Police Rugby Club. They can be purchased on the night for $35.