CM to hold World Sumo

[SUMO] The Sumo Association of Thailand in conjunction with Chiang Mai will stage the World Sumo Championships at Gymnasium 3 inside the Chiang Mai's 700th Anniversary Sports Complex between November 16 and 18.

The SAT's president Sumio Kurasawa revealed recently that the three-day tournament will be held to celebrate the 120th anniversary of cordial relationship between Thailand and Japn.

"This will be for the first time that Thailand was granted to host the world-class sumo competition. It wil help promote the sport in Thailand and Asia alike. Athletes from more than 35 countries worldwide confirmed their participation," he said.

The tournament will be divided into three categories - the World Championships (Open)  for both men's and women's events, the World Championships for Men's Juniors Under-18 and the Asian Sumo Championships.

The Asian meet will kick off at 9am on November 16, while the World Championships for the Men's Juniors Under-18 will start at 10am the following day. The World Championships for the Open (men's and women's) class will take place on November 18 at 10am.

Thailand will field its wrestlers in all categories, having the brightest hopes on the Asian Championships. Japan will be the Thais' closest rivals in the meet. The host country eyes the 4th-5th places in the World Championships, while Russian wrestlers are tipped to top the standing.

Preechachan Wiriyanupappong

The Nation