The Mainichi, Sunday 16th May 1948 (Page 2)

Sumo Tourney Opens; Terukuni Wins 1st Bout

Photo shows Terukuni performing "dohyo-iri" or the entrance ceremony of grand champion into the ring.

    TOKYO, May 15. - Two "ozeki" wrestlers, Saganohana and Shionoumi, were beaten on the opening day of the 11 day summer main tournament of the Dai Nippon Sumo Association, which got under way at the sumo ring in the outer garden of the Meiji Shrine here today, lagging one day behind schedule due to rain.
    Haguroyama and Maedayama, both "yokozuna" grapplers, absented themselves from the current competition due to illness.
    As a result of the absence of the two champions, Terukuni, captain of the West team, was the only "yokozuna" to take part in the tournament and thrust out tricky Sakuranishiki in the final game of the first day.