8 Aug 2017

Crusaders fans brave the cold to celebrate Super victory

6:52 pm on 8 August 2017

Crusaders fans braved the cold and rain to welcome home the Super Rugby champions with a victory parade in the centre of Christchurch today.

About 2000 fans turned out in the wet weather this afternoon for the victory parade along Worcester Boulevard, before speeches from players, the coach and the mayor.

The Crusaders flew in late last night from South Africa, where they beat the Lions to pick up their eighth Super title and became the first overseas side to win a final in the republic.

Crusaders players with fans in Christchurch today.

Crusaders players with fans in Christchurch today. Photo: RNZ / Logan Church

One of the fans, 6-year-old Alex Hale, was not even born when the team were last crowned champions nine years ago, and said he was never going to let a little bit of rain stop him from turning out.

He went to every one of the side's home games this year, some of which have been played in atrocious conditions.

The crowd at today's parade.

The crowd at today's parade. Photo: RNZ / Logan Church

Another fan, Kate Watson, told RNZ it was important to give the team a proper welcome home.

"We're very happy about the win. It's been a while, a bit of a drought, but we've certainly got all three trophies now. I knew they'd do it."

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Photo: RNZ / Logan Church

Crusaders players mingle with the public during the Super Rugby victory parade.

Crusaders players mingle with the public during the Super Rugby victory parade. Photo: RNZ / Logan Church

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