A larger\u2011than\u2011life cultural first is taking over Stampede Park this weekend, as professional sumo wrestlers from Japan arrive for Sumo Fest, the first event of its kind ever held in Canada.<\/p>\n
The two\u2011day festival, running Friday and Saturday at the Nutrien Western Events Centre, features three live sumo shows along with a Japanese market celebrating the sport\u2019s deep traditions.<\/p>\n
CityNews caught up with Ramy, a 530\u2011pound Egyptian-born wrestler who flew in directly from Japan to take part in the historic event. He says Calgary audiences are about to witness something that\u2019s much more than stereotypes may suggest.<\/p>\n
\u201cI know this is the first time you will see a sumo competition here in Calgary, or even Canada, so we will try to show them the culture of sumo,\u201d Ramy said. \u201cThey will never forget about that, I doubt it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ramy hopes the event will challenge misconceptions about the sport.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re going to change their mind about sumo,\u201d he added. \u201cIt\u2019s not just two fat guys pushing each other or fighting. It\u2019s really great martial arts. They are going to see new techniques for sumo, the rules about sumo, what we wear.\u201d<\/p>\n
Interest in the event has been strong. All three shows were nearly sold out until organizers opened additional seating last week to meet demand.<\/p>\n