Fiji is currently considering a proposal to host the Super Round of the Super Rugby Pacific, a major rugby event where matches are concentrated over one weekend at a single venue. This intention was revealed by Mark Evans, CEO of the Fijian Drua, during the recent National Sporting Organisations Conference at the Harbour Point Convention Centre in Suvavou.
Evans proposed renaming the event to “Bula Round,” highlighting that bringing all five matches to one location would foster a vibrant and engaging atmosphere in Fiji. He mentioned that the approach of hosting multiple rugby games at the same venue is not novel, as rugby league in England has effectively executed this concept for over twenty years.
To make this initiative a reality, Evans noted the need for substantial financial support from the Fijian government, echoing investments made by Australian cities like Melbourne and Brisbane during their past Super Round events. He emphasized the critical need for sufficient accommodations to host teams, staff, broadcasters, and officials, estimating that around 650 to 700 people would be involved. This presents a substantial opportunity for sports tourism in the region.
However, he expressed concerns about the current shortage of hotel availability in Suva, which poses a challenge for accommodating visitors essential to the success of the Bula Round. Nonetheless, he is optimistic about scheduling the event in February, a month when hotel occupancy rates tend to be lower.
The proposal is part of broader discussions aimed at improving Fiji’s sports infrastructure and capability to host significant international events, such as potential bids for the HSBC Sevens Series. The initiative is backed by various stakeholders, including Tourism Fiji and Fiji Airways, indicating a unified effort to utilize sports as a driver for economic growth through tourism.
If the Bula Round comes to fruition, it promises to enhance Fiji’s reputation in the sports arena and revitalizes the local tourism sector, showcasing the country’s strong rugby culture and enthusiastic fan base. This venture could not only elevate Fiji’s sporting stature but also provide a much-needed boost to its tourism industry, reflecting the positive impact of sports on the economy.
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