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 for the Labasa Town Council, shared this initiative during an interview with SUNsports last Saturday. Ligairi attended the South Pacific Boxing Promotion program held at Subrail Park, marking the return of professional boxing to Labasa after a nine-year hiatus.
He outlined that the council’s intention is to elevate the sport through the development of this new facility. The proposed location for the gym is near the botanical garden at Lions Park. Initial construction work is expected to commence soon, with potential funding assistance from the Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji.
The new gym will feature a boxing ring for training and will be fully equipped. Ligairi pointed out that the limited space at the existing Nasekula Gym has prompted the need for a larger facility to accommodate more athletes. The Labasa Town Council is also collaborating with the Macuata Rugby Union to facilitate the creation of a bigger gym in town.
The MRU previously contributed to the development of the Nasekula Gym by providing equipment donated by the Silktails Rugby League Club. The LTC has extended invitations to other non-governmental organizations to support this new project.
Ligairi expressed that this development would enhance the council’s finances while encouraging more individuals to take up boxing and explore their potential. He emphasized that hosting significant sporting events, such as the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament and the Fiji Secondary Schools rugby competition, has revitalized the community in Vanua Levu.
He added, “It’s a holistic approach, not only for the council but for the local economy, benefiting local hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants.”