I would like to extend my happy congratulations to all participants and spectators of the Fifth Memorial Sumo World Championships which will be held here on a grand scale at the Ryogoku Kokugikan. This event was made possible with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Education, the Japanese Olympic committee, the Japan Sumo Association, TV Asahi, and the special cooperation of the Nippon Foundation.
Sumo has a long history and many traditions. It is a national legacy that has been carefully and lovingly fostered under the care of the Japanese people. It is not a sport where the focus is simply to win or lose. It is a martial art where the ultimate goal is to foster human character, by instilling fortitude, skills, physical strength, and respect for courtesy and decorum. These traits will help sumo athletes contribute to the well-being of society. I would like to share your joy in knowing that today sumo has spread to all corners of the globe, developing into a sport that is enjoyed by many fans.
The International Sumo Federation has members from 71 countries. Athletes from each member federation have had to win championships held by each member federation in five continents and six regions this year, in order to qualify as participants in today's event. It would not be an exaggeration to say that this phenomenon alone has been a heroic undertaking which will be written in the annals of sumo history. I firmly believe that each athlete who will be participating in today's competition has sharpened his fortitude and physical skills and will do his best to give a heated performance, after having passed such demanding trials at home.
Mr. Samaranch, president of the International Olympic Committee has sent his greetings to the Fifth Memorial Sumo World Championships. Mr. Samaranch's message has been printed in the program. Mr. Felli, IOC Sports Director, has arrived from Lausanne, Switzerland as an official observer, an indication of IOC's strong interest in the event.
I hope that each athlete participating in today's event fully understands the significance of the competition and will do justice to his country's expectations and honor by exhibiting the best of his skills, fortitude, and physical strength. I also hope that he will participate in the matches fairly and openly and further the cause of international goodwill.
In closing, I would like to deeply thank the officials and all relevant personnel
involved in this competition for their hard work and effort. I pray for the success of this event and for its continued development.
