Participating at the 2024 Golden Gloves Championship was not an easy journey for 25 boxers from Nasavu in the province of Ra.
Boxers from Nasavu in the province of Ra during training.
Participating at the 2024 Golden Gloves Championship was not an easy journey for 25 boxers from Nasavu in the province of Ra.
Of the 25 boxers, five were females.
From working several jobs, including farming and selling produce at the roadside markets to winning five gold medals at their first national championship at Walu Bay, Suva, was worth the sacrifice.
A return trip to Suva by truck cost them $1200. That did not include the costs of meals, accommodation along with other costs.
Each boxer and official was levied $10 each while the rest of the funds were raised by doing jobs for several farmers in their community for their 200-kilometre journey to Suva last weekend. These farm tasks include weeding, picking chilies, planting dalo and preparing land for farming.
They travelled for almost six hours to get to Suva.
Nasavu Boxing head trainer Apisai Naciqa said the determination and dedication shown by the boxers reflect their passion for the sport.
The Fiji light heavyweight contender is hopeful the success of their amateur boxers would help revive boxing in his village.
Naciqa, has been training these boxers where majority are in primary and secondary schools; only a few are school leavers.
Unlike other clubs who train in proper gyms; Nasavu boxers trained in a shed in the village.
Nasavu is also home to boxers like the explosive lightweight boxer Mikaele Ravolaca and Eli Tuwai.
Despite the financial struggles, Nasavu youths remain committed to the sport.
“This journey shows their commitment, strength and anything is possible when we work together as a team,” Naciqa said.
“We won medals in our first outing and it is promising. We had five gold and five bronze medals.”
“Most of these students are attending Nailuva District and Ra High School, so the future of boxing is bright for this club.
“Boxing is also a way to divert them (youngsters) from getting into criminal activities, drinking grog, smoking and peer pressure in our community.
“I’m glad that these boxers have shown what they’re capable of despite being under resourced; we share a few pairs of gloves and a punching bag.”
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