Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa to reinvigorate amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. This was highlighted by Samuela Ligairi, the Labasa Town Council’s special administrator, during an interview with SUNsports last Saturday. Ligairi participated in the South Pacific Boxing Promotion program held at Subrail Park, marking the return of professional boxing to Labasa after a nine-year absence.
According to Ligairi, the council aims to revive the sport through the development of this gym, which will be located near the botanical garden at Lions Park. He stated that construction for the initial phase would commence soon, with potential financial backing from the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji.
The gym will feature a boxing ring for training and will be fully equipped. Ligairi noted that the existing Nasekula Gym has limited space, making the new facility crucial for accommodating more training enthusiasts. Discussions between the Labasa Town Council and the Macuata Rugby Union (MRU) have focused on creating a larger gym within the town. The MRU previously contributed to the development of the Nasekula gym, supplying equipment donated by the Silktails Rugby League Club. Additionally, the council has invited other non-governmental organizations to support this initiative.
Ligairi emphasized that the proposed gym would enhance the financial situation of the council and inspire individuals to engage in the sport and discover their potential. He mentioned that hosting significant sporting events, such as the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament and the Vodafone Deans Trophy for rugby, has revitalized the Vanua Levu community.
“This is a holistic approach, benefiting not only the council but also the local economy, including hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants,” he concluded.