290: The Hakuho Cup and Youth Sumo

Every Valentine's, we unofficially crown the Sexiest Sumo Wrestler of the Year and this year, we're also crowning the Sweetest Sumo Wrestler. We need YOU to vote for your choice. VOTE HERE through Valentine's Day, 2026 https://tinyurl.com/sweetandsexysumo26 In this episode, we discuss the Fuji Charity Tournament and the Setsubun festival. We delve into the history and significance of wanpaku, or kids' sumo, and highlight the Hakuho Cup, emphasizing Hakuho's role as an ambassador for the sport. Our conversation wraps up with reflections on the importance of youth participation in sumo and the cultural connections fostered through the sport. Wanna watch the Hakuho Cup online? hakuho-cup.com Takeaways: The Valentine's Day poll for sumo wrestlers is open until Valentine's Day. The February Fuji Charity Tournament is a significant event in the sumo calendar. Setsubun is a festival that marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring. It involves sumo wrestlers thowing beans. Wanpaku refers to children's sumo, emphasizing strength and discipline. The Hakuho Cup is a major event for youth sumo, attracting competitors from around the world. Hakuho plays a crucial role in promoting sumo globally. BINGO! More about Sumo Kaboom and our BINGO game at www.sumokaboom.com We play Sumo BINGO every basho, and it's always free. We give away sumo merch to our winners with the help of our sponsors Big Sumo Fan and Cheeky Sumo. • Bigsumofan.com is an online sumo merch store based in US, and they ship to over 30 countries. www.bigsumofan.com • Cheeky Sumo is an online sumo-inspired apparel and merch company that aims to celebrate, educate, and support the sumo community with cheeky designs and training gear. Laugh at their fun graphics and proudly rep your sumo spirit - because sumo's got more than just power - it's got personality! www.cheekysumo.com • Support us Ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/sumokaboom Twitter @SumoKaboom Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sumokaboom/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SumoKaboom/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/SumoKaboomPodcast • Check out our Sumo Kaboom tshirts and sweatshirts at Bonfire.com/sumokaboom • Ever wonder where we get our research? Check out the Show Notes section of our website. • Please follow, like or send us a review. It all helps! Thank you so much!