Fiji Airways has pledged its support for the inaugural Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospitals Pan Pacific Hash 2027, a notable event in sports tourism, aimed at attracting a large number of participants to Fiji. The launch of the event’s website took place recently at PSH Hospital, where Akuila Batiweti, the airline’s chief customer officer, underscored that Fiji Airways is responsible for 75% of travelers arriving in the country.
Batiweti expressed optimism regarding the potential economic benefits, suggesting that by building on the successes of the previous Interhash event in 2018—which drew 2,000 runners and generated over $5 million for the local economy—the collaboration could potentially double those earnings to $10 million with effective marketing strategies and teamwork.
Dr. Ram Raju, who chairs the Pan Pacific Hash and previously served as the president of the Fiji College of General Practitioners, highlighted the importance of world-class healthcare in promoting sports tourism. He noted that past international sporting events faced challenges due to inadequate medical services, but the establishment of PSH Hospitals marks a transformative change, strengthening Fiji’s appeal as a venue for future international competitions.
Located conveniently near Nadi International Airport, the PSH Hospitals feature a 130-bed capacity and modern facilities, enhancing Fiji’s capability to cater to both sports and medical tourism. Parvish Kumar, the CEO, assured prospective participants that their healthcare needs would be effectively addressed, allowing them to concentrate on enjoying their experience in Fiji.
In a further commitment to community welfare, the PSH Foundation is set to support patients struggling financially to access essential medical treatments, with funds from the event’s Red Dress Charity Run aiding this cause.
Scheduled for September 16 to 18, the Pan Pacific Hash 2027 is expected to unite fitness enthusiasts globally, promoting camaraderie while showcasing the stunning landscapes of Fiji. The event not only aims to bolster tourism but also emphasizes health and wellness within the community, offering a promising outlook for Fiji to emerge as a significant player in the sports tourism industry.
This initiative reflects the concerted effort of local organizations to encourage international connections and foster community spirit while celebrating the rich culture of hashing. The future looks bright for Fiji as it positions itself at the forefront of sports tourism, bringing both economic benefits and a focus on health and wellness to the region.
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