The 11 day sumo wrestling matches started at the Meiji Shrine grounds with the three Grand Champions winning their bouts. Champion Nayoroiwa, however, was beaten by the up-and-coming Takatsuyama.

Maedayama, (second from right) performed the time-honored ring entering ceremony at the opening sumo contest Monday in the Meiji Shrine park. The big husky wrestler was recently promoted to the rank of grand champion. The tournament will continue for 11 days. (Sun News Photo)