Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa, aimed at reviving amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. This was highlighted by Labasa Town Council special administrator, Samuela Ligairi, during an interview with SUNsports last Saturday. Ligairi attended the South Pacific Boxing Promotion program at Subrail Park, marking the return of professional boxing to Labasa after a nine-year absence.
He mentioned that the Labasa Town Council intends to bring the sport back to life through this new gym project, which will be located near the botanical garden at Lions Park. Ligairi stated that construction is set to begin soon, with potential funding support 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 emphasized the need for this new facility due to space limitations at the existing Nasekula Gym, allowing for more athletes to train comfortably.
Furthermore, discussions between the Labasa Town Council and the Macuata Rugby Union (MRU) are underway to develop a larger gym in the town. The MRU previously assisted in the establishment of the gym at Nasekula, providing equipment donated by the Silktails Rugby League Club. The council is also reaching out to other non-governmental organizations for support in this development.
Ligairi expressed that the gym’s establishment would not only enhance the financial standing of the Labasa Town Council but also motivate individuals to participate in the sport and realize their potential. He noted that hosting significant sporting events, such as the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament and the Vodafone Deans Trophy rugby competition, has invigorated the local community in Vanua Levu.
This initiative is described as a holistic approach that benefits not only the council but also the local economy, positively impacting hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants.