Round two of the West Boxing Extravaganza
THE Fiji National Sports Commission (FNSC), in collaboration with the Fiji Amateur Boxing Association, is organising the second round of the West Boxing Extravaganza this Friday and Saturday at the Ba Market Bure.
FNSC assistant sports development officer Western Timoci Bakanivesi expressed his enthusiasm for the future of boxing in the region.
“As part of our efforts to support and grow the sport in the West, we have partnered with the Fiji Amateur Boxing Association to stage a series of events aimed at showcasing local talent and providing opportunities for aspiring boxers to hone their skills and compete at a high level.
“One of the key initiatives we have undertaken is the staging of the First West Boxing Extravaganza in April, 2023. This event saw seven West clubs participate, with a total of 135 boxers taking part.
“The competition was Ɲerce, with boxers showcasing their skills and determination in the ring. The event was a great success, drawing a large crowd of spectators and generating excitement and interest in the sport of boxing in the West.”
This week’s event will feature ten amateur boxing clubs from the West, including notable entries from Kwaca na Vatu Boxing Club from Namosi and Army Boxing Club from Suva, underscoring the event’s growing signiƝcance beyond the Western region.
The competition will feature boxers across four categories for both male and female participants.
“We have school category (below 15 years), the junior category(1516years), youth category(1718years) and elite category(1940years),” Bakanivesi said.
Each boxer will face opponents in their respective weight categories, promising thrilling matches that cater to a range of age groups and skill levels.
Bakanivesi highlighted the event’s dual focus on sports and social responsibility.
“We are also promoting Drug Free Sports and HIV/AIDS on our banner as well.”
Following the success of the Ɲrst West Boxing Extravaganza in April last year, FNSC decided to further support the growth of boxing in the West by conducting a train the trainer program for coaches and referees in early January this year.
“This program focused on providing coaches and referees with the knowledge and skills they need to effectively train and officiate in boxing matches. By investing in the development of coaches and referees, we are ensuring that the sport of boxing in the West can grow and thrive in a safe and supportive environment,” Bakanivesi said.
“Our partnership with the Fiji Amateur Boxing Association has been instrumental in our efforts to promote and develop boxing in the West. By working closely with the association, we are able to tap into their expertise and resources to stage successful events and provide opportunities for boxers to compete at a high level. Together, we are committed to growing the sport of boxing in Fiji and providing opportunities for boxers of all levels to showcase their talents and achieve their full potential.”