If you build it, they will come.
That was the well-known line from the movie Field of Dreams, starring Kevin Costner, in 1989.
And that was to be the theme for my column last week, but unfortunately that dream did not come to fruition for Christchurch and the AMI stadium.
Sadly, the IRB decided the city and stadium were in no state to host five pool matches and two quarterfinals.
I mourned all over again, because I was convinced the World Cup would give the citizens of this stricken city something to strive for.
If it's any compensation, the IRB is doing its best to keep as many of the games as possible in the South Island, and it seems Christchurch's loss is Dunedin's gain.
Whoever had the vision to create an enclosed stadium in Otago's climate should give themselves a pat on the back right now.
The possible coup of hosting the extra All Blacks test in July will act as the grand opening event for the stadium, as well as a Christchurch earthquake fundraiser.
I've noticed that the recent disasters experienced in the West Coast, Christchurch and Japan have made sportspeople and sport organisations more creative in terms of how to show their support for affected communities, as well as continuing to consider the bottom line figures.
The Crusaders, for instance, have been forced to take their games to the outskirts of their region as well as overseas.
Fans in Twickenham will love the opportunity to show their support for the Crusaders and Cantabrians, just as fans in Nelson have.
It is a gamble, but it may pay off.
These tragedies have resurrected a part of sport that can be found lacking in the professional era - genuine heart-felt compassion and community spirit.
Is it possible to have these and make a profit as well? Definitely.
Those who had the vision to invest in a covered stadium in Dunedin will be hoping the investment will pay off for the community and their financial wellbeing in the long run.
Quite fittingly, these visionaries did build it and eventually, they will come.
Kevin Costner would be impressed.
