Hawaii's sumo standouts
hold share of lead

OSAKA, Japan -- Grand champion Akebono, Musashimaru and Takanonami shared the lead with five victories against no defeats after the fifth day of the 15-day Spring Grand Sumo Tournament.

One victory behind at 4-1 were grand champion Takanohana and five other wrestlers -- Takatoriki, Kaio, Aogiyama, Dejima and Minatofuji.

Akebono, or Chad Rowan from Hawaii, sent out Tochiazuma today with hand thrusts.

Musashimaru, or Fiamalu Penitani from Hawaii, grabbed Kenko's belt and forced him out.

Takanonami forced out Kyokushuzan. Konishiki, or Salevaa Atisanoe from Hawaii, was tossed down by Rikio, falling to 0-5.

Yamato, or George Kalima from Hawaii, lost to Dajima and fell to 2-3.

In the juryo division, William Hopkins (2-3) of Hawaii was slapped down by Zenshinyama. In makushita, Hawaii's Percy Kipapa (1-2) defeated Daiden.