The official website for the highly anticipated Pan Pacific Hash 2027 was unveiled in Nadi on Friday, marking a significant milestone in the preparations for one of Fiji’s premier sporting events. Scheduled for September 16-18, 2027, this event is expected to attract approximately 2,000 runners from around the world, enhancing Fiji’s reputation as a prime destination for international sports tourism.
Key stakeholders were present at the launch, including Akuila Batiweti, Fiji Airways’ chief customer officer, who expressed strong enthusiasm for the event’s alignment with the country’s tourism goals. “This is an exciting time for us at Fiji Airways. The Pan Pacific Hash integrates perfectly with our tourism strategy, and we are optimistic about the opportunities it presents,” said Batiweti.
Fiji Airways is committed to facilitating travel for participants, intending to provide special packages that will enhance accessibility for runners. Batiweti mentioned that the airline aims to transport 100% of the event’s participants, emphasizing its role as the national carrier, which holds a 70% market share of all traffic to and from Fiji. With the growth of its network and the introduction of new routes, the airline is well-prepared for the expected influx of runners and spectators.
The Pan Pacific Hash promotes a culture of inclusivity, camaraderie, fun, and respect, aligning seamlessly with Fiji Airways’ corporate values. Batiweti indicated that the airline looks forward to collaborating closely with the Nadi Hash and the organizing committee to ensure it is a memorable event, with potential plans for it to become an annual feature.
The event’s launch occurred at Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) hospitals, which has pledged significant support with a sponsorship of $150,000. Dr. Ram Raju, the event director and a former president of the Fiji College of General Practitioners, highlighted the importance of robust medical facilities in supporting sports tourism. He mentioned that many past international events were canceled due to insufficient healthcare resources, but with PSH’s backing, the outlook for hosting more sporting events in Nadi is bright.
Dr. Raju noted that the successful 2018 Interhash event—attracting around 2,000 runners—generated over $5 million for the local economy, suggesting the upcoming event could yield similar, if not greater, economic returns with effective marketing strategies in place.
As Fiji embraces its role in international sports tourism, the Pan Pacific Hash 2027 is set to not only boost tourism but also promote health and wellness within the community, marking a revitalizing return for the nation post-pandemic. Additionally, the initiative is supported by the PSH Foundation, which aims to assist patients requiring medical treatments, demonstrating the event’s commitment to community welfare and health initiatives.
This event underscores Fiji’s commitment to being a vibrant player in the global sports arena, fostering connections through fitness and celebrating the beauty of its landscapes. With the preparations underway, the Pan Pacific Hash 2027 promises to be a significant occasion for both participants and the Fijian community.
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