Participating In Konishiki's
Retirement Ceremony
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Konishiki in the background. |
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We had a small part in a BIG ceremony!
Ten of the older boys from our
sumo club were invited to be a part of Konishiki's retirement
ceremony. Certainly this was the opportunity of a lifetime and
they were all glad to be involved.
At the Kokugikan, we gathered in a
small group waiting to be let in. We streamed through the gate
with great programs in our hands and we were fortunate to get a
glimpse of Konishiki on the way through the doors. Eventually we
were led up to our seats as the preliminary events took place.
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Then it was off to a locker room
to change into our muwashis (sumo belts). The only catch was,
compared to practice and the Chofu Tournament, the boys had to do
without their shorts. They certainly hoped coaches Roen and
Harrits wrapped them well. As if that wasn't enough, Mr. Huber
was taking video to record the whole event! They were a great
looking bunch of young rikshi, or so we think.
Wrapped and ready to go, we headed
down to the main floor of the dohyo, waiting for the moment we
were to meet our foe, Ozeki Musashimaru.
(Note since this event took place, Musashimaru has gone on to become a
Yokazuna, the highest rank in professional sumo. He scored his tenth
tournament championship in March 2002.)
Click on either of these two photos for
an enlarged view. |
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Eventually we faced Musashimaru
as a whole group. The sweet feel of victory was ours!
Perhaps the best moment was the "High
Five" by Konishiki on the way out.
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This was a grand event, one we'll remember for a
lifetime. We want to wish Sanoyama Yasokichi
(formerly Konishiki) well. Although he may have retired as a
rikishi, we hope to see him, whether it is around town or as he
is doing commentary for bashos.
Konishiki will always have fans
at ASIJ.
Black and White Photos by Richard
Murphy,
a fifth grade teacher.
Color images shot by Mr. Wilson, an ASIJ parent
or digitally by Aimee L., an ASIJ student. |
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