13 of world top Sumo wrestlers led by sumo legend and master Kotonowaka, will wrap up tomorrow their week long trip to Israel as guests of Israel's Tourism and Foreign Ministries, Israel's Ambassador to Japan and Isuzu Sumo importer UTI. Organizers chose Israel for the visit which takes wrestlers outside of Japan only once every two years. The tour by the Japanese sumo 'stable' or sadogatake is meant to strengthen Japanese-Israeli ties and tourism.

They toured Jerusalem holy sites including the Western Wall, the Via Dolorosa and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Following a match at Caesarea's ancient seaside Roman amphitheater, the sumo decided to absorb sun and minerals while floating on the Dead Sea. Before leaving Israel the delegation will visit sick children at Petach Tikva's Schneider Hospital.

Israel's Tourism Minister Isaac Herzog warmly welcomed the wrestlers, calling them ambassadors of peace. The wrestlers presented the minister with a traditional garment.

For additional information please contact Ruth Mekel, 212-499-5647 or 917-573-1741
E-mail: ruthmekel@imot.org