Oshi-dashi'd message

[Basten <cbasten@statgen.ncsu.edu>]

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Date: Tue, 21 Jan 2003 11:57:05 +0900
To: sumo@statgen.ncsu.edu
From: Lynn Matsuoka <artist@traditions.jp>
Subject:  Takanohana as Oyakata
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Anna Gordon <anna_m_gordon@yahoo.co.uk>

>I was a bit disturbed last night as I was watching the
>bi-ling coverage on BS to hear Hiroshi suggest that
>Takanohana might become a security guard like Terao.
>I DO hope he was joking, as I just can't see a
>Yokozuna bouncer...
>

The fact is  that all retired Rikishi, regardless of rank, upon
becoming oyakata, must start at the very bottom. I remember seeing
the great Chiyonofuji  wearing the regulation blue jacket, hiding
behind a pole his first basho out as Oyakata. He was clearly
uncomfortable. He was  quickly and mercifully promoted up from that
position and out of sight  for the following basho.

I am sure that Takanohana  will look smart in Blue. I am sure also
that  he, being born and bred to follow tradition, will  accommodate
himself to that appearance with the grace and dignified bearing he
has maintained throughout.

L. Matsuoka