Congresswoman Hirono Honors Sumo Wrestling Legend Jesse Kuhaulua on his Retirement
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. House of Representatives today honored Maui-born sumo wrestling legend, Jesse Kuhaulua, or Takamiyama, by passing by voice vote H.Res. 479, a bill introduced by Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawai‘i), that recognizes his trailblazing career in the one of the world’s most tradition-rich sports as he begins his retirement.
“Maui-born and a graduate of Baldwin High School, Jesse made his debut as an aspirant in Japan’s national sport in the winter of 1964 in Osaka. At the time, he knew little of the Japanese language and the subtleties of the sport itself. In this initial test, he wondered if his stay in Japan would be counted in weeks or months,” said Hirono. “Today, Takamiyama Daigoro will retire from a 45-year long sumo career filled with historic milestones.”
For close to two decades, Takamiyama excited crowds with his display of strength, agility, and flexibility as he dispatched opponents from the dohyō, becoming for the first foreign wrestler to rise to the rank of “Sekiwake.” In doing so, Takamiyama paved the way for eventual Hawaii-raised Ozeki (Champion), Konoshiki (Salevaa Atisanoe), and two Yokozuna (Grand Champions), Akebono (Chad Rowan) and Musashimaru (Fiamalu Penitani).
Following his retirement from the ring, Kuhaulua’s success continued as a coach and mentor. Under the new professional name of Azumazeki Oyakata, the stablemaster’s prominence grew, culminating with the crowning of his apprentice Akebono as the ancient sport’s 64th Yokozuna.
“Takamiyama opened the door for others from Hawaii to join him in this most ancient of sports,” said Hirono. “Today, foreigners from other countries such as Mongolia, Russia, and Georgia have attained high rankings and remarkable acclaim.”
After a career that spanned close to a half century, Kuhaulua officially retired from all aspects of the sport in a grand ceremony in Tokyo, Japan on June 6, 2009.
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