Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa aimed at revitalizing both amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. Samuela Ligairi, the special administrator of Labasa Town Council, shared these insights during an interview with SUNsports last Saturday, coinciding with his attendance at the South Pacific Boxing Promotion program held at Subrail Park.
Following a nine-year hiatus, professional boxing has made a return to Labasa. Ligairi emphasized that the Labasa Town Council is dedicated to revitalizing the sport through this development initiative. The proposed location for the new gym is situated near the botanical garden at Lions Park.
Initial construction is expected to begin shortly, backed by potential funding from the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji. Ligairi detailed plans for a comprehensive facility, including a training boxing ring and fully equipped gym.
The current accommodation at Nasekula Gym is limited, prompting LTC to pursue this new project, which provides a more spacious environment for sports enthusiasts to train. Collaborative discussions are taking place between the LTC and the Macuata Rugby Union (MRU) to facilitate the construction of a larger gym in town. The MRU previously aided in developing the gym at Nasekula, providing equipment donated by the Silktails Rugby League Club. LTC is also reaching out to various Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) for additional support.
Ligairi believes that this development will strengthen the financial position of the LTC while encouraging more individuals to engage in the sport and explore their potential. He noted that hosting significant sporting events, such as the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament and the Fiji Secondary Schools rugby competition (Vodafone Deans Trophy), has invigorated the community in Vanua Levu.
“This initiative takes a holistic approach, benefiting not just the council but the local economy as well, providing opportunities for hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants to share in the profits,” he added.