TORCHBEARER 2024

[shimodahito]

good day all,
The 2023 prize has not been sent to champion Jesinofuji, as he has not responded to my message to him on this forum. If anyone has his contact info or knows if he's using a different shikona, please send me a PM.

It's time for the once-a-year invite to the easiest picking (guessing) sumo game ever. No need for daily picks, no need for pre-basho picks; just a pair of picks will last a whole year!

Here's how it works.
The symbolic TORCH starts with the last rikishi and last rank on the 2024 HATSU BANZUKE (rikishi/rank at the bottom of jonokuchi division). If the rikishi wins his bout (called a TORCH MATCH), he keeps the TORCH. If he loses, the TORCH is passed to the winner. Through the year, the TORCH will eventually make way up the banzuke as it is always passed to the winner. The object of the game is to pick the one rank and one rikishi you think will end up with the most points throughout the year's six bashos. Points are awarded to every rikishi and rank involved in a TORCH MATCH; AND to players who finish closest to the FINAL TORCH position at the end of the year.

FINAL TORCH POINTS AT THE END OF THE 2024 KYUSHU BASHO:
25 points if you picked the final TORCH holding rikishi.
25 points if you picked the final TORCH holding rank.
PLUS...
10 points to the player(s) closest to the final TORCH holding rikishi.
10 points to the player(s) closest to the final TORCH holding rank.
9 points to the 2nd closest picks.
8 points to the 3rd closest picks.
7 points to the 4th closest picks.
6 points to the 5th closest picks.
5 points to the 6th closest picks.
4 points to the 7th closest picks.
3 points to the 8th closest picks.
2 points to the 9th closest picks.
1 point to the 10th closest picks.

(so if my math is correct, a minimum of 110 points (55 rank/55 rikishi) are guaranteed to be handed out at the end of the year)

TORCH MATCH POINTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR:
3 points for every TORCH MATCH your chosen rikishi wins.
3 points for every TORCH MATCH your chosen rank wins.
1 point for every TORCH MATCH your chosen rikishi loses.
1 point for every TORCH MATCH match your chosen rank loses.

The player with the most points at the end of the year will get a prize.

For historical reference, here's where the torch ended up in previous years:
2006, J2w
2007, Ms33w (highest position J7w)
2008, J7e (highest position J6w)
2009, J5e (highest position J3e)
2010, Ms58e (highest position J3e)
2011, J6e (highest position J4w)
2012, J2e (highest position J1e)
2013, Ms48e (highest position Ms4e)
2014, Ms49e (highest position Ms3e)
2015, J6w (highest position J1w)
2016, J11e (highest position J6e)
2017, Ms10w (highest position J13w)
2018, Ms8e (highest position J2e)
2019, J7e (highest position J4e)
2020, Ms15w (highest position Ms1w)
2021, J4w (highest position J1e)
2022, Ms23e (highest position Ms1w)
2023, J5e (highest position J1e)

Highest number of points: 59 by Profomisakari in 2009.

To play, please submit:
1) the rikishi you think will get the most points between now and the end of the 2024 Kyushu Basho.
and
2) the rank you think will get the most points between now and the end of the 2024 Kyushu Basho.

The deadline for entries is one minute before the first TORCH MATCH starts... JST. Send new entries or updated entries to shimodahito(at)yahoo.com, by message on this forum, or post on this thread. For players who miss the deadline, your 2023 picks will carry over to TORCHBEARER 2024 (as long as your rikishi pick is still active).

A "wildcard" drone pick, by default will be the lowest rikishi and rank on the HATSU BANZUKE and cannot be selected by any other player.

Good luck! The game is painless...one rank pick, one rikishi pick... no daily picks needed…. and a prize.

15+ years and still going!

-shimodahito

[shimodahito]

From the bottom of the banzuke, the TORCH started here:
Start-of-2024 Rank: JONOKUCHI 17 EAST
Start of 2024 Rikishi: DAISHIYAMA

…The TORCH was passed on the ceremonial wildcard first match moving to 1-0 Anryukai. Meanwhile golden rikishi pick Kyokukaiyu LOST his first match going 0-1. So usually, the torch continues with winners and the TORCH would not meet golden pick in this basho. But oddly Anryukai was next paired with Taranami – who not only had a loss, but also TWO matches (1-1). What did this mean if Taranami won?
1. Unless there is a playoff, the TORCH would only have six matches in Hatsu.
2. Now with one loss, the TORCH had a chance to get paired with golden pick.

Here's a summary of the TORCH matches:

DAY 2: Jonokuchi 17 East Daishiyama (0-0) passes the TORCH to Jonokuchi 16 East Anryukai (0-0)
DAY 5: Jonokuchi 16 East Anryukai (1-0) passes the TORCH to Jonokuchi 14 East Taranami (1-1)
DAY 8: Jonokuchi 14 East Taranami (2-1) defeats Jonokuchi 9 East Nishikiori (2-1)

Which brings us to our TORCH MATCH on Day 10:

RIKISHI
TARANAMI vs KYOKUKAIYU

RANK
JONOKUCHI 14 EAST vs JONOKUCHI 15 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

And for what it’s worth, NO player with a jonokuchi rikishi pick has ever won the annual TORCHBEARER top position. Will that change this year?

[shimodahito]

And so begins a possible TORCH streak among nine coleaders with 3 points -- Day 11:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs ANRYUKAI

RANK
JONOKUCHI 15 EAST vs JONOKUCHI 16 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

[shimodahito]

Hmmm. Rather than pair 5-1 Kyukukaiyu with the other jonokuchi 5-1 Chiyodaigo, the torkicumi makers instead pair them both against 5-1 jonidan wrestlers. So our nine coleaders with 6 points get this TORCH MATCH on Day 13:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs SETOYUTAKA

RANK
JONOKUCHI 15 EAST vs JONIDAN 88 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

[shimodahito]

Here's a recap and Haru primer.

From the bottom of the banzuke, the TORCH started here:
Start-of-2024 Rank: JONOKUCHI 17 EAST
Start of 2024 Rikishi: DAISHIYAMA

DAY 2: Jonokuchi 17 East Daishiyama (0-0) passes the TORCH to Jonokuchi 16 East Anryukai (0-0)
DAY 5: Jonokuchi 16 East Anryukai (1-0) passes the TORCH to Jonokuchi 14 East Taranami (1-1)
DAY 8: Jonokuchi 14 East Taranami (2-1) defeats Jonokuchi 9 East Nishikiori (2-1)
DAY 10: Jonokuchi 14 East Taranami (3-1) passes the TORCH to Jonokuchi 15 East Kyokukaiyu (3-1) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
DAY 11: Jonokuchi 15 East Kyokukaiyu (4-1) defeats Jonokuchi 16 East Anryukai (4-1) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
DAY 13: Jonokuchi 15 East Kyokukaiyu (5-1) defeats Jonidan 88 East Setoyutaka (5-1) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]

End-of-Hatsu Rikishi: KYOKUKAIYU
End-of-Hatsu Rank: JONOKUCHI 15 EAST

HARU BANZUKE RELEASE

Start-of-Haru Rikishi: KYOKUKAIYU
Start-of-Haru Rank: JONIDAN 32 WEST

Nine co-leaders with nine points each.

[shimodahito]

Let’s get started with our nine coleaders’ TORCH MATCH on Day 1:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs SOGA

RANK
JONIDAN 32 WEST vs JONIDAN 33 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYUa loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

Again I’ll mention, NO player with a jonokuchi rikishi pick has ever won the annual TORCHBEARER top position.

standings:
all nine above with nine points each.

[shimodahito]

TORCH MATCH on Day 3:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs HARIMAO

RANK
JONIDAN 32 WEST vs JONIDAN 31 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
​​​​​​​a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
all nine above with twelve points each.

[shimodahito]

TORCH MATCH on Day 5:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs KOSHINORYU

RANK
JONIDAN 32 WEST vs JONIDAN 30 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
all nine above with fifteen points each.

[shimodahito]

We have a legitimate steady streak going into the TORCH MATCH on Day 7:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs CHIYODAIGO

RANK
JONIDAN 32 WEST vs JONIDAN 28 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
all nine above with eighteen points each.

[shimodahito]

For the leading nine, a TORCH MATCH on Day 9:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs HAYASHIRYU

RANK
JONIDAN 32 WEST vs JONIDAN 16 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
all nine above with twenty one points each.

[shimodahito]

I couldn’t remember so I looked it up -- nonet, today in a TORCH MATCH on Day 11:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs TOCHIMARU

RANK
JONIDAN 32 WEST vs JONIDAN 47 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
all nine above with twenty four points each.

[shimodahito]

Good day all,
   Here's a recap of Haru and set up for Natsu!
DAY 1: Jonidan 32 West Kyokukaiyu (0-0) defeats Jonidan 33 West Soga (0-0) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
DAY 3: Jonidan 32 West Kyokukaiyu (1-0) defeats Jonidan 31 West Harimao (1-0) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
DAY 5: Jonidan 32 West Kyokukaiyu (2-0) defeats Jonidan 30 East Koshinoryu (2-0) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
DAY 7: Jonidan 32 West Kyokukaiyu (3-0) defeats Jonidan 28 East Chiyodaigo (3-0) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
DAY 9: Jonidan 32 West Kyokukaiyu (4-0) defeats Jonidan 16 West Hayashiryu (4-0) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
DAY 11: Jonidan 32 West Kyokukaiyu (5-0) passes the TORCH to Jonidan 47 East Tochimaru (5-0) [1 point Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
DAY 13: Jonidan 47 East Tochimaru (6-0) defeats Jonidan 61 West Taranami (6-0)
KETTEI-SEN: Jonidan 61 West Taranami (7-0) defeats Jonidan 6 East Ryuo (7-0)

End-of-Haru Rikishi: TOCHIMARU
End-of-Haru: Rank: JONIDAN 47 EAST


Start-of-Natsu Rikishi: TOCHIMARU
Start-of-Natsu Rank: SANDANME 45 WEST

standings:  All players above have 25 points each!  

[shimodahito]

Good day all,
Here's the run down of what happened in Natsu:

Start-of-Natsu Rikishi: TOCHIMARU
Start-of-Natsu Rank: SANDANME 45 WEST
...nine players with 25 points...

Day 1: Sandanme 45 West Tochimaru (0-0) defeats Sandanme 45 East Shogun (0-0)
Day 4: Sandanme 45 West Tochimaru (1-0) defeats Sandanme 47 West Kotonofuji (1-0)
Day 5: Sandanme 45 West Tochimaru (2-0) defeats Sandanme 44 West Katsunofuji (2-0)
Day 8: Sandanme 45 West Tochimaru (3-0) passes the TORCH to Sandanme 54 East Chiyodaigo (3-0)
Day 9: Sandanme 54 East Chiyodaigo (4-0) defeats Sandanme 46 East Wakazakura (4-0)
Day 11: Sandanme 54 East Chiyodaigo (5-0) defeats Sandanme 61 West Gohakuun (5-0)

On Day 13 we had a TORCH MATCH:

RIKISHI
CHIYODAIGO vs SADANOHIKARI

RANK
SANDANME 54 EAST vs SANDANME 29 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Screeching Owl’s rikishi pick is SADANOHIKARI
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

[shimodahito]

On Day 13, Sadanohikari did win giving Screeching Owl three points and finished 7-0. But there was another 7-0 in Sandanme leading to a bonus playoff TORCH MATCH with the mighty nine:

RIKISHI
SADANOHIKARI vs KYOKUKAIYU

RANK
SANDANME 29 EAST vs SANDANME 87 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Screeching Owl’s rikishi pick is SADANOHIKARI
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

The gang of Kyokukaiyu won. Here's the final status:

End-of-Natsu Rikishi: KYOKUKAIYU
End-of-Natsu-Rank: SANDANME 87 WEST

standings:
28 points - Andreas21
28 points - Athenayama
28 points - Bunbukuchagama
28 points - Hakuhonofan
28 points - Kaito
28 points - Kintamayama
28 points - Ripe
28 points - Torideyama
28 points - Yarimotsu
4 points - Screeching Owl

We are having a very different TORCH race than any of the previous 15+ years. It will likely require someone to finish with a bullseye to surpass these leaders. Good luck to all.

[shimodahito]

Good day all and welcome to Nagoya.  I may have to re-name TORCBEARER 2024 to KYOKUKAIYUBEARER 2024.

Start-of-Nagoya Rikishi: KYOKUKAIYU
Start-of-Nagoya Rank: MAKUSHITA 58 EAST

And Day 2 brings us the first TORCH MATCH:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs TOCHINOBORI

RANK
MAKUSHITA 58 EAST vs MAKUSHITA 57 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

[shimodahito]

Nagoya continues with our TORCH match on Day 4:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs ASAGYOKUSEI

RANK
MAKUSHITA 58 EAST vs MAKUSHITA 59 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
all nine above with 31 points each.
Screeching Owl - 4 points

[shimodahito]

I am researching Torideyama’s question.  And this may be the first makushita tsukedashi rank, in the Day 6 TORCH MATCH:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs ISHIZAKI

RANK
MAKUSHITA 58 EAST vs MAKUSHITA TSUKEDASHI 60 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Andreas21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
all nine above with 34 points each.
screeching owl - 4 points

[shimodahito]

Settin’ the TORCHBEARER up with the makushita tsukedashi on the west side for Day 7:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs KAZUMA

RANK
MAKUSHITA 58 EAST vs MAKUSHITA TSUKEDASHI 60 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Andrea21's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
all nine above with 37 points each.
screeching owl - 4 points

[shimodahito]

Good day all
Here is a recap of the TORCH’s journey through Nagoya:

Start-of-Nagoya Rikishi: KYOKUKAIYU
Start-of-Nagoya Rank: MAKUSHITA 58 EAST

Day 2: Makushita 58 East Kyokukaiyu (0-0) defeats Makushita 57 West Tochinobori (0-0) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
Day 4: Makushita 58 East Kyokukaiyu (1-0) defeats Makushita 59 East Asagyokusei (1-0) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
Day 6: Makushita 58 West Kyokukaiyu (2-0) defeats Makushita Tsukedashi 60 East Ishizaki (2-0) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
Day 7: Makushita 58 West Kyokukaiyu (3-0) passes the TORCH to Makushita Tsukedashi 60 West Kazuma (3-0) [1 point Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
Day 9: Makushita Tsukedashi 60 West Kazuma (4-0) passes the TORCH to Sandanme 6 West Tokitenran (4-0) 
Day 11: Sandanme 6 West Tokitenran (5-0) defeats Sandanme 23 West Tochimusashi (5-0)
Day 13: Sandanme 6 West Tokitenran (6-0) passes the TORCH to Sandanme 55 West Inami (6-0)

End-of-Nagoya Rikishi: INAMI
End-of-Nayoya Rank: SANDANME 55 WEST

standings: 
38 points - Andreas21
38 points - Athenayama
38 points - Bunbukuchagama
38 points - Hakuhonofan
38 points - Kaito
38 points - Kintamayama
38 points - Ripe
38 points - Torideyama
38 points - Yarimotsu
4 points - Screeching Owl

Start-of-Aki Rikishi: INAMI
Start-of-Aki-Rikishi: MAKUSHITA 32 WEST

[shimodahito]

Good day all,
   Your appetizer today is a recap of the TORCH since the start of this dandy Aki basho.
Day 2: Makushita 32 West Inami (0-0) defeats Makushita 33 East Tokitenran (0-0)
Day 3: Makushita 32 West Inami (1-0) defeats Makushita 33 West Tochikodai (1-0)
Day 5: Makushita 32 West Inami (2-0) passes the TORCH to 31 East Hamayutaka (2-0)

   Which leads us to the main course meal:  the TORCH MATCH on Day 7 ~ the pack of kyoy-kaiy supporters is back!!!

RIKISHI
HAMAYUTAKA vs KYOKUKAIYU

RANK
MAKUSHITA 31 EAST vs MAKUSHITA 28 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Andrea21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

   And a desert ending - recap of points.
standings:
all nine above with 38 points each.
screeching owl - 4 points

[shimodahito]

The nonetiers continue with the TORCH MATCH on day 9:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs KAISEIJO

RANK
MAKUSHITA 28 WEST vs MAKUSHITA 21 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Andrea21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
all nine above with 41 points each.
screeching owl - 4 points

[shimodahito]

The possibility of the TORCH getting to Juryo this year is diminishing as nines continue the Makushita march in the TORCH MATCH on day 11:

RIKISHI
KYOKUKAIYU vs HATSUYAMA

RANK
MAKUSHITA 28 WEST vs MAKUSHITA 16 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Andrea21’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Athenayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Bunbukuchagama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Hakuhonofan’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kaito's rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Kintamayama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Ripe’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Torideyama’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
Yarimotsu’s rikishi pick is KYOKUKAIYU
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
all nine above with 44 points each.
screeching owl - 4 points

[shimodahito]

Good day all,
   Here's the Aki recap of the TORCH:
Start-of-Aki Rikishi: INAMI
Start-of-Aki-Rikishi: MAKUSHITA 32 WEST

Day 2: Makushita 32 West Inami (0-0) defeats Makushita 33 East Tokitenran (0-0)
Day 3: Makushita 32 West Inami (1-0) defeats Makushita 33 West Tochikodai (1-0)
Day 5: Makushita 32 West Inami (2-0) passes the TORCH to 31 East Hamayutaka (2-0)
Day 7: Makushita 31 East Hamayutaka (3-0) passes the TORCH to Makushita 28 West Kyokukaiyu (3-0) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
Day 9: Makushita 28 West Kyokukaiyu (4-0) defeats Makushita 21 West Kaiseijo (4-0) [3 points Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
Day 11 Makushita 28 West Kyokukaiyu (5-0) passes the TORCH to Makushita 16 East Hatsuyama (5-0) [1 point Andreas21 & Athenayama & Bunbukuchagama & Hakuhonofan & Kaito & Kintamayama & Ripe & Torideyama & Yarimotsu]
Day 13: Makushita 16 East Hatsuyama (6-0) defeats Makushita 55 West Asakoki (6-0)

End-of-Aki Rikishi HATSUYAMA
End of Aki Rank: JURYO 16 EAST

standings:
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Athenayama
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Kintamayama
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
45 points - Yarimotsu
4 points - Screeching Owl

Would the banzuke guru’s promote TORCHBEARER Hatsuyama to Juryo, generating 15 days of TORCH matches?  The answer is not quite.

Start-of-Kyushu Rikishi HATSUYAMA
Start-of-Kyushu Rank: MAKUSHITA 1 WEST

[shimodahito]

Here’s a chance for the TORCH to get to Juryo in the TORCH MATCH on day 1:

RIKISHI
HATSUYAMA vs OSHOUMI

RANK
MAKUSHITA 01 WEST vs JURYO 14 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Jejima’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Benihana’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Kuhne’s rank pick is MAKUSHITA 01 WEST
Sakura’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Kurowashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
the nonet with 45 points each.
screeching owl - 4 points

[shimodahito]

TORCH in Juryo.  Here we gyo.  TORCH MATCH on day 2:

RIKISHI
OSHOUMI vs WAKAIKARI

RANK
JURYO 14 WEST vs JURYO 13 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Jejima’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Benihana’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Oshirokita‘s rikishi pick is WAKAIKARI
Sakura’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Kurowashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Achiyama’s rank pick is JURYO 13 EAST
Rocks’ rank pick is JURYO 13 EAST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
the nonet with 45 points each.
4 points - screeching owl
3 points - Benihana
3 points - Jejima
3 points - Kurowashi
3 points - Sakura
1 point - Kuhne

[shimodahito]

We have a quartet in distant second place.  TORCH MATCH on day 3:

RIKISHI
OSHOUMI vs NABATAME

RANK
JURYO 14 WEST vs JURYO 14 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Jejima’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Benihana’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
mt fuji‘s rikishi pick is NABATAMI
Sakura’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Kurowashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
charliki’s rank pick is JURYO 14 EAST
Ryoshishokunin’s rank pick is JURYO 14 EAST
Yukiarashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 EAST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
the nonet with 45 points each.
6 points - Benihana
6 points - Jejima
6 points - Kurowashi
6 points - Sakura
4 points - screeching owl
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Rocks

[shimodahito]

We will have a sole leader after today as the most popular rank pick is in the TORCH MATCH on day 4:

RIKISHI
OSHOUMI vs TOCHITAIKAI

RANK
JURYO 14 WEST vs JURYO 12 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Jejima’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Benihana’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Sakura’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Kurowashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Churaumi’s rank pick is JURYO 12 WEST
Daughter of Sukubidubidu’s rank pick is JURYO 12 WEST
Joaoiyama’s rank pick is JURYO 12 WEST
McBugger’s rank pick is JURYO 12 WEST
Miselet’s rank pick is JURYO 12 WEST
Mmikasazuma’s rank pick is JURYO 12 WEST
Tsuchinoninjin’s rank pick is JURYO 12 WEST
Yarimotsu’s rank pick is JURYO 12 WEST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
Yarimotsu and the rest of the nonet with 45 points each.
9 points - Benihana
9 points - Jejima
9 points - Kurowashi
9 points - Sakura
4 points - screeching owl
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - charliki
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

Yarimotsu has broken from the pack leaving an octet in second place.  A very popular rikishi pick and solid rank pick is in the TORCH MATCH on day 5:

RIKISHI
OSHOUMI vs AONISHIKI

RANK
JURYO 14 WEST vs JURYO 11 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Jejima’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Benihana’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI and rank pick is JURYO 11 EAST
Sakura’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Kurowashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Furanohana’s rikishi pick is AONISHIKI
Godango’s rikishi pick is AONISHIKI
mugatake’s rikishi pick is AONISHIKI
Pitinosato’s rikishi pick is AONISHIKI
Profomisakari’s rikishi pick is AONISHIKI
Reonito’s rikishi pick is AONISHIKI
Saruyama’s rikishi pick is AONISHIKI
Tetsuba’s rikishi pick is AONISHIKI
Chiyotasuke’s rank pick is JURYO 11 EAST
Jason’s rank pick is JURYO 11 EAST
kotoshikona’s rank pick is JURYO 11 EAST
orandashoho’s rank pick is JURYO 11 EAST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Athenayama
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Kintamayama
45 points - Ripe
45 points – Torideyama
12 points - Benihana
12 points - Jejima
12 points - Kurowashi
12 points - Sakura
4 points - screeching owl
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Joaoiyama
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

Benihana had a four-point day and takes sole position of third place. Today’s TORCH challenger features the rikishi formerly known as Kototebakari – picked by two players. Here is the TORCH MATCH on day 6:

RIKISHI
OSHOUMI vs KOTOEIHO

RANK
JURYO 14 WEST vs JURYO 13 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Jejima’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI and rank pick is JURYO 13 WEST
Benihana’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Sakura’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Kurowashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Chiyotasuke’s rikishi pick is KOTOEIHO
Munjeezy’s rikishi pick is KOTOEIHO
kuroimori’s rank pick is JURYO 13 WEST
umbriel2’s rank pick is JURYO 13 WEST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Athenayama
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Kintamayama
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
16 points - Benihana
15 points - Jejima
15 points - Kurowashi
15 points - Sakura
4 points - screeching owl
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - charliki
1 point - Chiyotasuke
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - Joaoiyama
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Profomisakar
1 point - Reonito
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

Jejima had a four-point day (regardless of the outcome) for a share of third place. Here is the TORCH MATCH on day 7:

RIKISHI
OSHOUMI vs DAISHOHO

RANK
JURYO 14 WEST vs JURYO 9 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Jejima’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Benihana’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Sakura’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Kurowashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Guruwake’s rikishi pick is DAISHOHO
Senkoho’s rank pick is JURYO 9 WEST
Suwihuto’s rank pick is JURYO 9 WEST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Athenayama
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Kintamayama
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
19 points - Benihana
19 points - Jejima
18 points - Kurowashi
18 points - Sakura
4 points - screeching owl
2 point - Chiyotasuke
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - Joaoiyama
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - Munjeezy
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Profomisakar
1 point - Reonito
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

With an end-of-basho bullseye rikishi or rank, the 40-point leaders are technically in striking distance by the 20-point pack. Here is the TORCH MATCH on nakabi:

RIKISHI
OSHOUMI vs DAISEIZAN

RANK
JURYO 14 WEST vs JURYO 12 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Jejima’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Benihana’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Sakura’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Kurowashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Asterix’s rank pick is JURYO 12 EAST
Shokikogi’s rank pick is JURYO 12 EAST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Athenayama
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Kintamayama
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
22 points - Benihana
22 points - Jejima
21 points - Kurowashi
21 points - Sakura
4 points - screeching owl
2 point - Chiyotasuke
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Guruwake
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - Joaoiyama
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - Munjeezy
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Profomisakar
1 point - Reonito
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Senkoho
1 point - Suwihuto
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

The chase continues with the TORCH MATCH on Day 9:

RIKISHI
OSHOUMI vs FUJISEIUN

RANK
JURYO 14 WEST vs JURYO 10 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Jejima’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Benihana’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Sakura’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Kurowashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Amamaniac’s rank pick is JURYO 10 WEST
Athenayama’s rank pick is JURYO 10 WEST
Profomisakari’s rank pick is JURYO 10 WEST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Athenayama
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Kintamayama
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
25 points - Benihana
25 points - Jejima
24 points - Kurowashi
24 points - Sakura
4 points - screeching owl
2 point - Chiyotasuke
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - Asterix
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Guruwake
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - Joaoiyama
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - Munjeezy
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Profomisakar
1 point - Reonito
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Senkoho
1 point - Shokikogi
1 point - Suwihuto
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

Athenayama joins Yarimotsu for the lead, and what once was a nonet is now a septet in second. Here’s the TORCH MATCH on Day 10:

RIKISHI
OSHOUMI vs TSURUGISHO

RANK
JURYO 14 WEST vs JURYO 7 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Jejima’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Benihana’s rikishi pick is OSHOUMI
Sakura’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Kurowashi’s rank pick is JURYO 14 WEST
Shitamachi’s rikishi pick is TSURUGISHO
Cydrome’s rank pick is JURYO 7 WEST
Reonito’s rank pick is JURYO 7 WEST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
46 points - Athenayama
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Kintamayama
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
28 points - Benihana
28 points - Jejima
27 points - Kurowashi
27 points - Sakura
4 points - screeching owl
2 point - Chiyotasuke
2 points - Profomisakari
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - Amamaniac
1 point - Asterix
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Guruwake
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - Joaoiyama
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - Munjeezy
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Reonito
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Senkoho
1 point - Shokikogi
1 point - Suwihuto
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

The 40-point pack is breathing a sigh of relief as the 20-point pack passes the TORCH. Here’s the TORCH MATCH on Day 11:

RIKISHI
TSURUGISHO vs KINBOZAN

RANK
JURYO 7 WEST vs JURYO 1 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Shitamachi’s rikishi pick is TSURUGISHO
Cydrome’s rank pick is JURYO 7 WEST
Reonito’s rank pick is JURYO 7 WEST
Joaoiyama’s rikishi pick is KINBOZANI
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
46 points - Athenayama
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Kintamayama
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
29 points - Benihana
29 points - Jejima
28 points - Kurowashi
28 points - Sakura
4 points - screeching owl
3 points - Cydrome
3 points - Reonito
3 points - Shitamachi
2 points - Chiyotasuke
2 points - Profomisakari
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - Amamaniac
1 point - Asterix
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Guruwake
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - Joaoiyama
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - Munjeezy
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Reonito
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Senkoho
1 point - Shokikogi
1 point - Suwihuto
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

Coincidence? As a reward for showing the TORCH MATCH in his Day 11 highlights. Here’s the TORCH MATCH on Day 12:

RIKISHI
TSURUGISHO vs KAYO

RANK
JURYO 7 WEST vs JURYO 3 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Shitamachi’s rikishi pick is TSURUGISHO
Cydrome’s rank pick is JURYO 7 WEST
Reonito’s rank pick is JURYO 7 WEST
Kintamayama’s rank pick is JURYO 3 WEST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
46 points - Athenayama
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Kintamayama
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
29 points - Benihana
29 points - Jejima
28 points - Kurowashi
28 points - Sakura
6 points - Cydrome
6 points - Reonito
6 points - Shitamachi
4 points - screeching owl
2 points - Chiyotasuke
2 points - Joaoiyama
2 points - Profomisakari
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - Amamaniac
1 point - Asterix
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Guruwake
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - Munjeezy
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Reonito
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Senkoho
1 point - Shokikogi
1 point - Suwihuto
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

What once was a nonet is now a sextet and Kintamayama becomes our sole leader. Suddenly a 5-5 vs 7-5 TORCH MATCH on Day 13:

RIKISHI
KAYO vs DAISEIZAN

RANK
JURYO 3 WEST vs JURYO 12 EAST

Player(s) up for points:
Kintamayama’s rank pick is JURYO 3 WEST
Asterix’s rank pick is JURYO 12 EAST
Shokikogi’s rank pick is JURYO 12 EAST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
48 points - Kintamayama
46 points - Athenayama
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
29 points - Benihana
29 points - Jejima
28 points - Kurowashi
28 points - Sakura
7 points - Cydrome
7 points - Reonito
7 points - Shitamachi
4 points - screeching owl
2 points - Chiyotasuke
2 points - Joaoiyama
2 points - Profomisakari
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - Amamaniac
1 point - Asterix
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Guruwake
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - Munjeezy
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Reonito
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Senkoho
1 point - Shokikogi
1 point - Suwihuto
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

It’s all about the rank, ‘bout the rank, no rikishi picks. Here’s the TORCH MATCH on Day 14:

RIKISHI
DAISEIZAN vs FUJISEIUN

RANK
JURYO 12 EAST vs JURYO 10 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Asterix’s rank pick is JURYO 12 EAST
Shokikogi’s rank pick is JURYO 12 EAST
Amamaniac’s rank pick is JURYO 10 WEST
Athenayama’s rank pick is JURYO 10 WEST
Profomisakari’s rank pick is JURYO 10 WEST
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
49 points - Kintamayama
46 points - Athenayama
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
29 points - Benihana
29 points - Jejima
28 points - Kurowashi
28 points - Sakura
7 points - Cydrome
7 points - Reonito
7 points - Shitamachi
4 points - Asterix
4 points - screeching owl
4 points - Shokikogi
2 points - Chiyotasuke
2 points - Joaoiyama
2 points - Profomisakari
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - Amamaniac
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Guruwake
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - Munjeezy
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Reonito
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Senkoho
1 point - Suwihuto
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

Athenayama moves up to second place but doesn’t get an opportunity to hold the final TORCH. Seven players in the final TORCH MATCH on senshuraku. It might take a day for me to tally points…In the meantime, pour a libation, celebrate a good 2024 for sumo, and contemplate TORCHBEARER 2025 picks.

RIKISHI
DAISEIZAN vs TOMOKAZE

RANK
JURYO 12 EAST vs JURYO 5 WEST

Player(s) up for points:
Asterix’s rank pick is JURYO 12 EAST
Shokikogi’s rank pick is JURYO 12 EAST
Hakuhonofan’s rank pick is JURYO 5 WEST
rhyen’s rank pick is JURYO 5 WEST
Chankomafuji’s rikishi pick is TOMOKAZE
Kuhne’s rikishi pick is TOMOKAZE
Mmikasazuma’s rikishi pick is TOMOKAZE
a loss = 1 point, but a win = 3 points and an opportunity for more points in the next torch match

standings:
49 points - Kintamayama
47 points - Athenayama
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Hakuhonofan
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
29 points - Benihana
29 points - Jejima
28 points - Kurowashi
28 points - Sakura
7 points - Asterix
7 points - Cydrome
7 points - Reonito
7 points - Shitamachi
7 points - Shokikogi
4 points - screeching owl
3 points - Profomisakari
2 points - Amamaniac
2 points - Chiyotasuke
2 points - Joaoiyama
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Guruwake
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - Kuhne
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - Mmikasazuma
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - Munjeezy
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Reonito
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Senkoho
1 point - Suwihuto
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi

[shimodahito]

Here's a recap of the path of the TORCH during Kyushu. Benihana & Jejima had 4-point days, and J14W Oshoumi took the TORCH on one of it's longest JURYO streaks.

Start-of-Kyushu Rikishi: HATSUYAMA
Start-of-Kyushu Rank: JURYO 1 WEST

Day 1: Makushita 1 West Hatsuyama (0-0) passes the TORCH to Juryo 14 West Oshoumi (0-0) [3 points Benihana & Jejima & Kurowashi & Sakura; 1 point Kuhne]
Day 2: Juryo 14 West Oshoumi (1-0) defeats Juryo 13 East Wakaikari (0-1) [3 points Benihana & Jejima & Kurowashi & Sakura; 1 point Achiyama & Oshirokita & Rocks]
Day 3: Juryo 14 West Oshoumi (2-0) defeats Juryo 14 East Nabatame (2-0) [3 points Benihana & Jejima & Kurowashi & Sakura; 1 point charliki & mt fuji & Ryoshishokunin & Yukiarashi]
Day 4: Juryo 14 West Oshoumi (3-0) defeats Juryo 12 West Tochitaikai (3-0) [3 points Benihana & Jejima & Kurowashi & Sakura; 1 point Churaumi & Daughter of Sukubidubidu & Joaoiyama & McBugger & Miselet & Mmikasazuma & Tsuchinoninjin & Yarimotsu]
Day 5: Juryo 14 West Oshoumi (4-0) defeats Juryo 11 East Aonishiki (4-0) [4 points Benihana; 3 points; Jejima & Kurowashi & Sakura; 1 point Chiyotasuke & Furanohana & Godango & Jason & kotoshikona & mugatake & orandashoho & Pitinosato & Profomisakari & Reonito & Saruyama & Tetsuba]
Day 6: Juryo 14 West Oshoumi (5-0) defeats Juryo 13 West Kotoeiho (3-2) [4 points Jejima; 3 points; Benihana & Kurowashi & Sakura; 1 point Chiyotasuke & kuroimori & Munjeezy & umbriel2]
Day 7: Juryo 14 West Oshoumi (6-0) defeats Juryo 9 West Daishoho (2-4) [3 points Benihana & Jejima & Kurowashi & Sakura; 1 point Guruwake & Senkoho & Suwihuto]
Day 8: Juryo 14 West Oshoumi (7-0) defeats Juryo 12 East Daiseizan (4-3) [3 points Benihana & Jejima & Kurowashi & Sakura; 1 point Asterix & Shokikogi]
Day 9: Juryo 14 West Oshoumi (8-0) defeats Juryo 10 West Fujiseiun (5-3) [3 points Benihana & Jejima & Kurowashi & Sakura; 1 point Amamaniac & Athenayama & Profomisakari]
Day 10: Juryo 14 West Oshoumi (9-0) passes the TORCH to Juryo 7 West Tsurugisho (8-1) [3 points Cydrome & Reonito & shitamachi; 1 point Benihana & Jejima & Kurowashi & Sakura]
Day 11: Juryo 7 West Tsurugisho (9-1) defeats Juryo 1 West Kinbozan (8-2) [3 points Cydrome & Reonito & shitamachi; 1 point Joaoiyama]
Day 12: Juryo 7 West Tsurugisho (10-1) passes the TORCH to Juryo 3 West Kayo (5-6) [3 points Kintamayama; 1 point Cydrome & Reonito & shitamachi]
Day 13: Juryo 3 West Kayo (6-6) passes the TORCH to Juryo 12 East Daiseizan (7-5) [3 points Asterix & Shokikogi;1 point Kintamayama]
Day 14: Juryo 12 East Daiseizan (8-5) defeats Juryo 10 West Fujiseiun (8-5) [3 points Asterix & Shokikogi; 1 point Amamaniac & Athenayama & Profomisakari]
Day 15: Juryo 12 East Daiseizan (9-5) passes the TORCH to Juryo 5 West (6-8) Tomokaze [3 points Chankomafuji & Hakuhonofan & Kuhne & Mmikasazuma & rhyen; 1 point Asterix & Shokikogi]

End-of-Kyushu (FINAL 2024) Rikishi: TOMOKAZE
End-of-Kyushu (FINAL 2024) Rank: JURYO 5 WEST

final TORCH MATCH point standings:
49 points - Kintamayama
48 points - Hakuhonofan
47 points - Athenayama
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Kaito
45 points - Ripe
45 points - Torideyama
29 points - Benihana
29 points - Jejima
28 points - Kurowashi
28 points - Sakura
8 points - Asterix
8 points - Reonito
8 points - Shokikogi
7 points - Cydrome
7 points - Shitamachi
4 points - Kuhne
4 points - Mmikasazuma
4 points - screeching owl
3 points - Chankomafuji
3 points - Profomisakari
3 points - rhyen
2 points - Amamaniac
2 points - Chiyotasuke
2 points - Joaoiyama
1 point - Achiyama
1 point - charliki
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - Furanohana
1 point - Godango
1 point - Guruwake
1 point - Jason/Itachi
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - mugatake
1 point - Munjeezy
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Oshirokita
1 point - Pitinosato
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Saruyama
1 point - Senkoho
1 point - Suwihuto
1 point - Tetsuba
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi

54 players with points at this stage -- a good start as we move to the end-of-year bonus points.

[shimodahito]

good day all,
The 2024 TORCH prize is ready for the winner(s). The TORCH MATCH point leader is Kintamayama with an astounding 49 points. But now it’s time to award the end-of-year FINAL TORCH POINTS. To recap the rules for end-of-year TORCH POINTS, 25 points are awarded if you picked the FINAL TORCH position RANK or RIKISHI. Additional points are awarded to the next 10 closest picks. (10 points to the closest pick, down to 1 point for the 10th closest pick).

We’ll start with the END-OF-YEAR TORCH POINTS for RANK. Two players (Hakuhonofan & rhyen) claimed the bullseye with their JURYO 5 WEST pick. In all, 47 players earned FINAL TORCH RANK points!

MAEGASHIRA 17 EAST...
JURYO 01 EAST........(2 points: Holleshoryu)
JURYO 01 WEST........
JURYO 02 EAST........(4 points: Aled ap Tomos)
JURYO 02 WEST........(5 points: Nekonishiki & Wamahada)
JURYO 03 EAST........(6 points: Fujisan)
JURYO 03 WEST........(7 points: Kintamayama)
JURYO 04 EAST........(8 points: Umigame)
JURYO 04 WEST........(9 points: nutzername)
JURYO 05 EAST........(10 points: Chankomafuji & Jesinofuji & Taikoubana.
FINAL TORCH RANK: JURYO 5 WEST...(25 points: Hakuhonofan & rhyen)
JURYO 06 EAST........(10 points: Itachi & Leoben & Oshirokita)
JURYO 06 WEST........(9 points: Chisaiyama & Ganzohnesushi & Shitamachi & Ripe & Yubinhaad)
JURYO 07 EAST........(8 points: code_number3 & Godango & Haidouzo & LLCoolKay & Munjeezy & Torideyama)
JURYO 07 WEST........(7 points: Cydrome & Reonito)
JURYO 08 EAST........(6 points: Furanohana & Kitanoedo & Naganoyama & Tochyatsu)
JURYO 08 WEST........(5 points: Gurowake & itchyknee & Sukubidubidu & Takanorappa)
JURYO 09 EAST........(4 points: Pitinosato & Shatsume)
JURYO 09 WEST........(3 points: Senkoho & Suwihuto)
JURYO 10 EAST........(2 points: Akōgyokuseki & Karasukurai & maorencze)
JURYO 10 WEST........(1 point: Amamaniac & Athenayama & Profomisakari)

[shimodahito]

Next, the END-OF-YEAR TORCH POINTS for RIKISHI. Three players (Chankmafuji, Kuhne, Mmikasazuma) claimed the 25 bullseye points for TOMOKAZE. In all, 25 players earned FINAL TORCH RIKISHI points.
Kudos to Chankomajuji who was just one rank off from scoring a rank AND rikishi bullseye. Others, Aled ap Tomos & Chankomafuji & Furanohana & Godango & Gurowake & Jesinofuji & Naganoyama & Pitinosato & Profomisakari & Reonito & Shitamachi & Sukubidubidu & Taikoubana scored both RIKISHI and RANK points; proof that this truly is a skill game. .

TAKERUFUJI....(1 point: Achiyama)
ASAKORYU......
BUSHOZAN......
KITANOWAKA....(3 points: charliki/Gibuten & Naganoyama)
KINBOZAN......(4 points: Joaoiyama)
KAGAYAKI......
HAKUOHO.......
SHIROKUMA.....(7 points: Taikoubana)
KAYO..........
TAMASHOHO.....(9 points: Obana)
SHIMANOUMI....
SHIMAZUUMI....(10 points: Ronnie/Gawasukotto)
FINAL TORCH RIKSHI: TOMOKAZE...(25 points: Chankomafuji & Kuhne & Mmikasazuma)
TOHAKURYU.....
SHIDEN........
HIDENOUMI.....
TSURUGISHO....(8 points: Shitamachi)
MITORYU.......(7 points: Wakatake)
HAKUYOZAN.....(6 points: Pandaazuma & Sukubidubidu)
DAIAMAMI......(5 points: Aled ap Tomos & Jesinofuji)
DAISHOHO......(4 points: Gurowake)
ONOSHO........(3 points: Hoshihitomi)
FUJISEIUN.....
AONISHIKI.....(2 points: Furanohana & Godango & mugatake & Pitinosato & Profomisakari & Reonito & Saruyama & Tetsuba)
CHIYOMARU.....

[shimodahito]

With all the points added, our final standings put 85 players on the board:

FINAL TORCHBEARER 2024 POINT STANDINGS:
73 points - Hakuhonofan
56 points - Kintamayama
54 points - Ripe
53 points - Torideyama
48 points - Athenayama
46 points - Yarimotsu
45 points - Andreas21
45 points - Bunbukuchagama
45 points - Kaito
38 points - Chankomafuji
29 points - Benihana
29 points - Jejima
29 points - Kuhne
29 points - Mmikasazuma
28 points - Kurowashi
28 points - rhyen
28 points - Sakura
24 points - Shitamachi
17 points - Reonito
17 points - Taikoubana
15 points - Jesinofuji
14 points - Cydrome
11 points - Godango
11 point - Jason/Itachi
11 points - Oshirokita
11 points - Sukubidubidu
10 points - Guruwake
10 points - Leoben
10 points - Ronnie/Gawasukotto
9 points - Aled ap Tomos
9 points - Chisaiyama
9 points - Furanohana
9 points - Ganzohnesushi
9 points - Munjeezy
9 points - Nagaonyama
9 points - nutzername
9 points - Obana
9 points - Yubinhaad
8 points - Asterix
8 points - code_number3
8 points - Haidouzo
8 points - LLCoolJay
8 points - Shokikogi
8 points - Umigame
7 points - Pitinosato
7 points - Wakatake
6 points - Fujisan
6 points - Joaoiyama
6 points - Kitanoedo
6 points - Pandaazuma
6 points - Profomisakari
6 points - Tochyatsu
5 points - itchyknee
5 points - Nekonishiki
5 points - Takanorappa
5 points - Wamahada
4 points - charliki
4 points - screeching owl
4 points - Senkoho
4 points - Shatsume
4 points - Suwihuto
3 points - Amamaniac
3 points - Hoshihitomi
3 points - mugatake
3 points - Saruyama
3 points - Tetsuba
2 points - Achiyama
2 points - Akōgyokuseki
2 points - Chiyotasuke
2 points - Holleshoryu
2 points - Karasukurai
2 points - maorencze
1 point - Churaumi
1 point - Daughter of Sukubidubidu
1 point - kotoshikona
1 point - kuroimori
1 point - McBugger
1 point - Miselet
1 point - mt fuji
1 point - orandashoho
1 point - Rocks
1 point - Ryoshishokunin
1 point - Tsuchinoninjin
1 point - umbriel2
1 point - Yukiarashi


Congratulations to Hakuhonofan, the TORCHBEARER 2024 winner with a record 73 points. I’ll be corresponding to send the prize.
For those keeping tabs on how often the 25-point TORCH bullseye is achieved:
2011 - 3
2012 - 1
2015 - 3
2016 - 3
2017 - 2
2018 - 2
2019 - 1
2021 - 1
2022 - 1
2023 - 3
2024 - 5
By the way, every year there’s always a couple of players who pick a jonokuchi rikishi, hoping to get some points early on. No player ever won using this approach until this year. Something to ponder.
Thanks for participating and I hope you all can update your pick or, if a new player, submit a pick for next year. You can send your TORCHBEARER 2025 picks to me now, or wait until the Hatsu banzuke is released. An invite (with rules for new players) will be out soon. Pick one rank and one rikishi where you think the TORCH will be at the end of the year. This sumo game has a prize. New players are always welcome.
Again, thanks.
-shimodahito