The official website for the eagerly awaited Pan Pacific Hash 2027 was launched in Nadi on Friday, marking a pivotal step in preparation for one of Fiji’s major sporting events. Set to take place from September 16-18, 2027, the event is projected to draw around 2,000 runners from various countries, further solidifying Fiji’s status as a sought-after destination for international sports tourism.
Key stakeholders attended the launch, including Akuila Batiweti, chief customer officer of Fiji Airways, who expressed enthusiasm for the event and its alignment with Fiji’s tourism objectives. “It is an exciting time for us at Fiji Airways. The Pan Pacific Hash fits seamlessly into our country’s tourism and events strategy, and we are optimistic about the prospects it brings,” Batiweti stated.
Fiji Airways has committed to supporting the event by aiming to transport all participants, providing special deals to enhance travel accessibility. Batiweti revealed the airline aims to carry 100% of the participants attending the event, reinforcing its crucial role as the national carrier with a 70% share of all traffic in and out of Fiji. The airline’s expanding network—including new routes—positions it well to meet the influx of runners and visitors.
The Pan Pacific Hash embodies values of inclusivity, camaraderie, fun, and respect, which align closely with Fiji Airways’ corporate values. Batiweti highlighted the intent to work closely with the Nadi Hash and the organizing committee to make this a standout event, expressing interest in possibly making it an annual occurrence.
The launch took place at Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) hospitals, which has pledged a major sponsorship of $150,000 for the event. Dr. Ram Raju, the event director and former president of the Fiji College of General Practitioners, emphasized the necessity of advanced medical facilities to support sports tourism. He noted that many prior international events had faced cancellations due to inadequate healthcare resources, but with PSH’s commitment, the future looks promising for hosting more sporting events in Nadi.
Dr. Raju pointed out that the successful 2018 Interhash event, which also attracted around 2,000 runners, generated over $5 million for the local economy, suggesting that the upcoming event could yield similar or even greater economic benefits, especially with effective marketing strategies in place.
As Fiji continues to embrace its role in global sports tourism, the Pan Pacific Hash 2027 not only aims to enhance tourism but also to promote health and well-being among community members, signifying a rejuvenating recovery phase for the nation as it moves forward post-pandemic. This initiative is also supported by the PSH Foundation, which is set to assist patients in need of medical treatments, underscoring the event’s commitment to community welfare and health initiatives.
The initiative showcases Fiji’s dedication to not just being a host but a vibrant participant in the global sports arena, fostering connections through fitness and the beauty of its landscapes.
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