Pacific Stars & Stripes, Friday 20th February 1959
(Page 21)
Sumo Grunt and Crooners Invade Johnson AB
Japan's top sumo wrestlers recently visited Johnson
AB, near Tokyo, to show the ancient sport to a mixed crowd of Japanese
and American spectators in Walker-Schade Stadium.
There were 300 sumo of various ranks at the affair,
which was sponsored by the base Labor Management Office for Japanese master
contractors.
Wakanohana, Wakachichibu and Wakanoumi, all three
high-ranking wrestlers, grappled with opponents in the raised ring on the
broad field in the stadium.
Col. Ray Vandiver, Johnson AB commander, Col. James
E. Johnston, who commands Yokota AB, and their wives were among the American
spectators.
TRIO OF CHAMPIONS go through customary ritual in the
outdoor ring: at Johnson AB. The three high-ranking sumo are (left to right)
Wakachichibu, Wakanoumi and Wakanohana, All three later demonstrated their
skill in matches.
SUMO WRESTLERS GRAPPLE in an outdoor ring in Walker-Schade
Stadium at Johnson AB as hundreds of Japanese and Americans watch. The
field and grandstands were packed by sumo fans who turned out
SUMO HAIR STYLE is arranged for Ononishiki as he relaxes
in his outdoor dressing room at Johnson AB Saturday. A tatami mat trunk
and the attendant's skilled fingers give him comfort.
HEARTY EATERS, these sumo wrestlers take time out for
a bite of hamburger at Johnson AB Saturday. Three hundred hefty professionals
of Japan's ancient art came to the base under the sponsorship of the base
Labor Management Office. Americans were also invited.
SMALL BOY WATCHES a sumo match through a window of the
Scoreboard in Walker-Schade Stadium at Johnson AB. Many Japanese children
turned out to see their idols. (S&S Photos)
