Fiji Sports Council Chairman, Gilbert Vakalalabure has confirmed that restoration works of the synthetic tracks at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva will begin on Monday.
The Fijian Government in its 2023/2024 National Budget announced an allocation of $1.9 million to the Council’s line agency, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, for the upgrade of the tracks.
Vakalalabure in a media statement said the upgrade works will involve the removal of the current track lines and installation of a new synthetic tracks system.
“It has taken a while to reach this stage, but the Council is obligated to follow due processes.”
Vakalalabure also revealed the Council and its Board have handed the project work to Australian company Sphynx Solutions Pty Ltd, for the supplying, installation, and commissioning of full track works.
“The Board of the Fiji Sports Council is confident that Sphynx Solutions will deliver the project as per the scope of work required of them. We also acknowledge the Fiji Government for its timely assistance, ensuring that athletes and all track users receive a fully upgraded track system.”
“We acknowledge the feedback that we have received from members of the public on the worn-out state of HFC Bank Stadium running tracks, a capital project that involves an extensive engagement of resources.”
“We understand the impact that the eventual closure of the track will have on National Sporting Organisations, including non-NSO track users. Our aim is to ensure that the long-term benefits of the restored tracks for athletes and fans outweigh the short-term inconvenience.”
The track, which was completely refurbished in 2013 as part of the Stadium Project, has experienced national and regional competitions over the years. Upgrade works are expected to be completed in early 2024.
Track users are kindly advised to make alternative arrangements during the period of upgrade works.
The final athletics event to take place on tracks, before upgrade works begin, will be Athletics Fiji’s final trials on Saturday for the 2023 Pacific Games.
