The 2024 Vodafone Ratu Suku-na Bowl competition is set to be more than just a sports event. This sentiment was expressed by Major General Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, during the official launch at the Naval Base in Walu Bay, Suva, yesterday.
The theme for this year’s Ratu Sukuna Bowl is “Stronger Together: Building a Drug-Free Nation through Family, Unity and Reconciliation.” Kalouniwai emphasized the importance of the respective forces’ responsibilities and their role in creating a better Fiji while responding to a challenge posed by Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew.
“It’s more than about winning or losing; it’s about the spirit we share in the forces, who we are, what we represent, and our contributions to the future of our country,” Kalouniwai stated. He also highlighted the recent reconciliation efforts within the RFMF, aiming for a new chapter in its history.
Chew reinforced the challenge towards the RFMF, asserting that Nasova is the rightful home of the Ratu Sukuna Bowl. “The Fiji Police Force is prepared and eager to defend the Ratu Sukuna tanoa,” he declared, hinting at the competitive spirit among the forces.
Last year, the Police retained the Ratu Sukuna Bowl after a draw of 11-11 at Prince Charles Park, Nadi. Chew noted the pressing social issues linked to drug use in communities, stressing the need to say no to drugs. He affirmed that since 2022, the new Ratu Sukuna tanoa has had one home—Nasova—and that it will return there this year.
Vodafone Fiji’s Chief Commercial Officer, Salman Khan, acknowledged Fiji’s passion for rugby, stating that this event is an opportunity for the disciplined forces to compete not only for victory but for a trophy that symbolizes camaraderie, discipline, and spirited rivalry. He encouraged the players to compete with integrity and pride, remembering the legacy of past champions and the hopes of future generations.
The tentative date for the Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge is November 8 at the HFC Bank Stadium, with additional sports events scheduled for that week.