Plans are underway to establish a boxing gym in Labasa aimed at revitalizing both amateur and professional boxing in Vanua Levu. This information was shared by Samuela Ligairi, the special administrator of Labasa Town Council, during an interview with SUNsports last Saturday.
Ligairi participated in the South Pacific Boxing Promotion program at Subrail Park, marking the return of professional boxing to Labasa after a nine-year absence. He expressed the council’s intentions to reinvigorate the sport with this new project.
The proposed location for the gym is situated near the botanical garden at Lions Park. Initial construction is set to begin soon, with potential funding from the Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Boxing Commission of Fiji.
“This facility will feature a boxing ring for training and will be a fully equipped gym,” Ligairi said. He emphasized the need for a larger space, as the current facilities at Nasekula Gym are limited, and the new gym will allow for a greater number of sports enthusiasts to participate in training.
The Labasa Town Council has been in discussions with the Macuata Rugby Union (MRU) to develop a more spacious gym in the area. The MRU previously assisted in establishing the gym at Nasekula, which received equipment donations from the Silktails Rugby League Club. The council has also reached out to various Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) for additional support.
Ligairi pointed out that this proposed development could enhance the financial position of the LTC, while also encouraging individuals to engage in boxing and discover their potential. He noted 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 revitalized the community in Vanua Levu.
“This initiative takes a comprehensive approach; it benefits not just the council but also boosts the local economy, providing opportunities for hoteliers, taxi operators, market vendors, and restaurants to share in the profits,” he added.