The Labasa Town Council (LTC) has expressed a strong desire to host this year’s Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge at Subrail Park, marking the first time the event would be held in this location. Samuela Ligairi, the special administrator of LTC, conveyed that the council is currently preparing their bid to host this prestigious annual rugby match, which pits the Police against the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) and has been a tradition since 1951.
Ligairi emphasized that the town has adequate sporting infrastructure to support such an event and aims to attract a substantial crowd from the Northern region. “We want Northerners to get a taste of what the Ratu Sukuna Bowl rugby is all about as they always watch it on television,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of local engagement in sports tourism.
To ensure the readiness of Subrail Park for this event, Ligairi mentioned that improvements to the playing pitch are necessary. The LTC has already made significant investments in the park, including $250,000 spent on preparations for previous events like the Fiji FACT, and a $40,000 upgrade for floodlights. These enhancements reflect a commitment to providing high-quality facilities for both players and spectators.
With local sentiments rallying around sporting events, the LTC believes that hosting the Ratu Sukuna Bowl, along with other upcoming events, can play a crucial role in promoting sports tourism. The successful hosting of events like the Battle of the Giants tournament earlier highlights Labasa’s growing reputation as a hub for major sporting activities.
The community’s collective spirit is evident as stakeholders, including local businesses, religious institutions, and sports enthusiasts, are encouraged to engage in improving the facilities, paving the way for a vibrant future in sports and economic growth in Labasa. This promising initiative showcases how community support and investment in sports infrastructure can lead to thriving local economies while simultaneously fostering a deeper appreciation for rugby and sports culture among residents.
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