Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa, aimed at revitalizing both amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. Labasa Town Council’s special administrator, Samuela Ligairi, shared this vision during an interview with SUNsports last Saturday. Ligairi attended the South Pacific Boxing Promotion program at Subrail Park, marking the return of professional boxing to Labasa after a nine-year absence.
According to Ligairi, the council intends to boost the sport through this new development, with the site selected near the botanical garden at Lions Park. He indicated that initial construction work would commence soon, with potential funding from the Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji. The new facility will feature a boxing ring for training and will be a fully equipped gym.
Ligairi noted that the current Nasekula Gym lacks adequate space, prompting the LTC to pursue a larger gym capable of accommodating more sporting enthusiasts. The LTC is collaborating with the Macuata Rugby Union (MRU) to facilitate the development of the new facility. The MRU previously assisted in setting up the gym at Nasekula, where equipment was donated by the Silktails Rugby League Club. The LTC is actively seeking support from other non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for this project as well.
Ligairi believes that the proposed development will enhance the financial standing of the LTC, attract more individuals to the sport, and help them realize their potential. He emphasized that hosting significant sporting events such as the Digicel Fiji FACT football tournament, the Fiji Secondary Schools rugby competition (Vodafone Deans Trophy), and boxing promotions has invigorated the local community in Vanua Levu. This initiative is seen as a holistic approach, benefiting not only the council but also boosting the local economy, including hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants.