Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa aimed at revitalizing both amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. This initiative was highlighted by Labasa Town Council’s special administrator, Samuela Ligairi, in an interview with SUNsports last Saturday.
Ligairi was present at the South Pacific Boxing Promotion event held at Subrail Park, marking the return of professional boxing to Labasa after a nine-year absence. He expressed the council’s commitment to rejuvenating the sport through this new project. The proposed location for the gym is adjacent to the botanical garden at Lions Park.
Construction is expected to commence soon, with potential financial backing from the Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji. Ligairi stated that the facility will include a training ring and be equipped with the necessary gym facilities.
The decision to open a new gym stems from the limited space at the existing Nasekula Gym. The Labasa Town Council is collaborating with the Macuata Rugby Union (MRU) to create a larger gym within the town. The MRU previously assisted in developing the gym at Nasekula with equipment provided by the Silktails Rugby League Club. Additionally, other Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have been invited to contribute to this initiative.
Ligairi emphasized that the new development would enhance the council’s finances and motivate local individuals to pursue the sport, enabling them to tap into their full potential. He also noted that hosting major sporting events like the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament, the Vodafone Deans Trophy for secondary school rugby, and boxing promotions has invigorated the local community in Vanua Levu.
“This is a comprehensive strategy that benefits not just the council but also the local economy, positively impacting hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants,” Ligairi added.