Sumo giant Ouchiyama, (left) celebrates his promotion to the second-ranking Ozeki class with a nip of Sake. To his right is Mrs. Tokitsukaze, wife of his Sumo club head.

    OZEKI, Mar. 23. - Giant "Sekiwake" Ouchiyama was unanimously promoted to the second highest rank of "Ozeki" at the ranking conference of the Japan Sumo Association held at the Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium, Namba, Wednesday for his outstanding performance in the Spring Professional Sumo Tournament.
    In the recent official tourney, the tallest sumo wrestler in Japan who is 6 feet 7 inches in height and weighs 316 pounds, barely missed his first pennant victory as he was beaten by Grand Champion Chiyonoyama in a play-off of the championship competition.
    Immediately after the conference, the association sent a messenger to the Tokitsukaze club, with which Ouchiyama is affiliated to bring the happy news of his promotion.
    A native of Ibaragi Prefecture, Ouchiyama began his sumo career in January, 1944, and was elevated to the rank of "Sekiwake" in May, 1954.