Oct. 22 - Our guest blogger today, Sylbeth Kennedy, writes about her love of sumo. She is a consular officer at the American Consulate General in Osaka.
Jim
Cultural Exchange at the Kokugikan
Here I am shaking hands with Koryu.
Since I am a big sumo fan who often watches matches on TV from the United States, I was excited to take my friend to the Autumn Grand Sumo Tournament at the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo last month. The sell-out crowd inside was buzzing about the winning streak of top wrestler Yokozuna Hakuho.
The chance to connect with the audience made the trip worthwhile. Fans sitting nearby answered our many questions. I got into a spirited discussion with a female fan who was cheering on her favorite "rikishi," Kaio. She told me he would retire soon, but she appreciated his fighting spirit and willingness to work hard.
Signing autographs
Cute rice cracker souvenirs shaped like sumo wrestlers
Despite my limited Japanese, we chatted throughout the match. She read the kanji names on the list of bouts, explained the techniques, and passed on her love for sumo. Indeed, everywhere I go in Japan, I meet nice people like this who seem to relish sharing their culture with me.
After their matches, the wrestlers exit the arena to meet their fans. These gentle giants make new admirers, sign autographs and pose for photos.
Colorful banners for each sumo stable
One young wrestler over six feet tall towered over a woman who cheerfully scolded him over his loss that day. Seeing this, I thought that even outside the "dohyo" (wrestling ring), the sumo wrestlers are ambassadors of their sport and of Japan. I can't wait to see them again in November at the Kyushu Basho.
- Sylbeth Kennedy
Ms. Kennedy shows the class and diversity of America. She is a credit to her organization and all US citizens serving. Thank you.
I really liked Sylbeth's spirited "Stuck on Sumo" entry. I wrestled in High School- but Sumo was not an option when I lived in Hokkaido years ago. Reading about Ms. Kennedy's passion of sumo (it has been documented in Peru) and the way she giggles at a sumo sightings, is always shear pleasure. We all love the gentle giants of the world, so give them room next time your on the subway. Good blog Jim.
