Women forbidden on the dohyo?

[Richard Webb <webb@phys3.physics.wsu.edu>]

Jim Maertens writes:
>  
> I also saw this movie a few years ago on a plane going to or from 
> Japan.  (I forget which direction).  I also enjoyed it.  The version 
> of the movie I saw was subtitled in English, which I enjoy much more 
> than movies that are "dubbed". 
> 
> Anyway, in this movie, they also mention that women are forbidden
> not only from competing in Sumo, but also from actually setting foot
> on the dohyo at anytime.  Can someone please verify this?  And I'm
> curious if any official reason is given for this rule.
> 
> Don't worry.  I'm not trying to claim sumo is sexist.  Tommy's 
> posting made me think of the movie, and so I'm curious how accurate
> the movie was.  Thanks.
> 
> Jim
> 
Yes, women are forbidden on the dohyo.  There was an article in
Sumo World on the subject a few issues ago.  I forgot what it said,
but I think it was something to the effect that political powers
were pressuring the Kyokai to allow women to hold positions in the
Kyokai and to present awards for the yusho.

Richard Webb
webb@phys3.physics.wsu.edu

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