Scheduled for Friday and Saturday at CentralWorld’s Garden Court, this is the first time Thai fans will witness on home soil the traditional Japanese sport of sumo, which has been an essential part of Japan’s cultural heritage for eight centuries and rarely seen outside the country. Nine of Japan’s top sumo wrestlers will be flying in to take part in the competition. The sumo ring, equipment and other participants will be brought in directly from Japan in order to maintain the authentic standards of the sport. Also, all the rituals and ceremonies will take place in accordance with ancient Japanese traditions.
Top sumo wrestlers including Tochiozan, Tochinoshin, Tochinowaka, Kimurayama, Toshinonada and Kasugano Oyakata arrived at Suvarnabhumi International Airport yesterday. This morning, they were scheduled to go to Siriraj Hospital to formally sign their birthday wishes to HM the King. The official opening of the tournament will take place late this afternoon with HRH Princess Soamsawali graciously presiding. The opening ceremony and related events will be broadcast live on Modern Nine TV from 5:30-7pm.
Date: 17-18 February 2012
Venue: CentralWorld
Source: Bangkok Post
