The three original rugby union teams taking part in the men's competition: Canada, England A and the USA, were joined by the New Zealand Maori.

A women's competition, involving the same teams, took place alongside the men's event.

Four teams played in two semi-final matches, with the North American sides kept apart.

The winners of each semi final competed in the final match, while the losers took part in a 3rd/4th place playoff.

Four matches were played over a period of two weeks.