The first-ever Fiji Bitter Namalata 7s is set to attract a huge contingent to the island of Kadavu this week. Sixty-eight rugby and netball teams will converge on the fourth largest island in the country for a three-day battle.
Tournament co-ordinator Malakai Yamaivava, who is on Kadavu since last week, said preparation works had been done and the organisers were all set to go.
“This is one of the biggest or if not the biggest tournament to be held on this island after a long time. The people here are excited and looking forward to hosting the teams for the event,” he said.
Yamaivava added that development works had been done at Namalata Central School ground where the games would be played.
“The ground is in amazing condition. We have taken out the pine posts that were used as goal posts and put in the required standard posts. The teams can be rest assured of getting the best facilities on the main land.
“The school has also benefitted. There have been a few renovations in some parts of the school to see the proper running of the event.”
A total of 40 men’s and four women’s teams will take part in rugby 7s competition.
There will be no youth competition. In the netball competition, 24 women’s teams will take part.
The Police Blue and White teams with Nabua, Nasinu, Nadera Black and Flametree Colo-i-Suva are the top bets in the men’s category. Tabadamu and Army will represent Niubuto and Nakorolevu Brothers respectively.
The two are representing villages on Kadavu. There are two teams coming from as far as Macuata (Nadogo Ignite) and Cakaudrove (Gonedau).
Yamaivava has also reminded teams on Viti Levu that the reporting time at Narain Jetty is at 8pm tomorrow.
The boat will depart for Kadavu at 10pm.
The tournament will be played from this Wednesday to Friday, with the winner of the main competition walking away with $5000.
