Fiji will be hosting 16 international sports events next year.

Minister for Youth and Sports Laisenia Tuitubou made the comment during the Fiji Swimming National Awards Night at Ocean Seafood Restaurant, Nadi last Saturday.

“Sports budget has been increased by nearly $5.7million to $16.9million, which is solely set aside for the overall administration and development of sports in the country like swimming.

“And $1.4 million is set aside to host 16 international sporting events in 2016, including the Oceania Weightlifting and Swimming Championships,” he said.

Government recognised the sport’s importance and was indicative of the budget that was set aside for it.

“This is illustrated by the fact that Fiji Swimming has regularly been the recipient of significant monetary budget from the Fiji National Sports Commission to assist with development programmes and training of swimmers.

“Government will provide funding to assist Fiji Swimming in hosting the next Oceania Swimming Championships.”

Tuitubou acknowledged was swimming is difficult.

He praised our Fijian swimmers that have been recipients of scholarships in the United Kingdom and the United States.

“We now have five national swimmers studying in the United States.  This is a great achievement to which we should acknowledge FASANOC and, Fiji Swimming.”

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