Once again Jim and I were privileged to be able to attend the one day Gateball event outside of Tokyo at a place called Higashi Urawa. It is well organised with teams, triples and doubles all playing in a complex draw system. Despite the very cold weather, our welcome was very warm. Assisted by our wonderful friend, Mr. Keiichi Imagawa, we made our way to the courts. He was playing with Kayoko San, another good friend from Adachi club, and who has previously visited  Australia four times to play Gateball or give refereeing assistance.

Before the games began, Kayoko (in pink) Keiichi, Jim and Barbara met up with others to play in the event.

We were not able to match the tactical skills of the local players. We did well but not well enough to win many games.  It was so good to note that more than half of the players were young people of High School or University age. Coached by knowledgeable teachers, these players are formidable in their intensity.

Keiichi, Jim and Barbara standing with a group of young players.

At the conclusion of the day the prizes were handed out. The winning duo had first selection of the practical items displayed as prizes. Our friend, Satoshi Kamijo, was part of the duo and he chose a bottle of soy sauce.

Satoshi Kamijo was the guiding member of the doubles team that won overall.

Even we won  prizes- I chose a bottle of cooking oil and Jim selected curry and rice packages.

Prize giving time

The selection was difficult with so many prizes.

The evening meal after the event was the best ever. Three hours were given over to eating, drinking and discussing all manner of things relating to Gateball.

Kayoko San, Shoiichi San, Barbara, Satoshi San and Jim had a wonderful get together. Thanks to Keiichi San for the photographs.