Sumo isn’t just about size: Aussie wrestlers embrace tradition and take on the Oceania Championship

Ahead of the Oceania Sumo Championship to be held in Sydney on April 27, we spoke with participating wrestlers and others involved in the sport. Among them were the family of the president of the Australian Sumo Federation, a former professional sumo wrestler, and a 19-year-old female wrestler — each sharing their unique story and passion for sumo.

Left：President of Australian Sumo Federation John Traill with his family, junior champion Charile, daughter Natalie and wife, Miho. Top right: Former pro-sumo wrestler, Minaminoshima. Middle Right: Giselle Shaw with Japanese athlete in Japan. Bottom right: Wrestlers gather at the Traill's residence for weekly training. Credit: SBS

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Sumo isn’t just about size: Aussie wrestlers embrace tradition and take on the Oceania Championship

SBS Japanese

11:10Japanese

Year 12 student Charlie Traill is hoping to defend his junior champion title in the upcoming Oceania Sumo Championships. Credit: Yumi Oba

Giselle Shaw spent 2024 in Japan as an exchange student, training and competing in University sumo club. Credit: Supplied/Giselle Shaw

Minaminoshima training the wrestlers ahead of the Oceania Championships (left), Minaminoshima during this Grand Sumo era (right). Credit: Yumi Oba (left) Supplied/Minaminoshima (right)

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