Taj Ultimate: An International Tradition in Northern Hyogo

 

“To build and strengthen connections between Japanese and foreigners through the Taj Ultimate event and introduce people to the wonderful scenery and community in Tajima” – the vision of Taj Ultimate

For the past eleven years, Taj Ultimate has provided a platform for foreign and Japanese people of all ages to come together and enjoy the sport of Ultimate. It is grassroots ambassadorship at its finest. People come from all over Honshu to participate in this two day tournament located in beautiful Northern Hyogo. Taj Ultimate 2014 was held on July 12 and 13.

This year’s tournament started off with a bang. Despite worries from Typhoon Number 8, the first day’s weather was perfect. Four hundred plus participants spent the day playing four games in leagues for their placement in the second day’s tournament ranking. While teams were not playing, there was merchandise to buy, local food to try, and even a Frisbee-catching dog performance to watch. Once game play came to an end, everyone headed over to the local Lodge Utopia for the legendary Taj Ultimate BBQ Party. Every year players have a chance to mingle over a BBQ and dance party. It is a great chance to meet new people and let loose after a long day. Wrapping up the day’s festivities around ten at night, players headed to their lodgings for a good night’s rest before tournament play.

Unfortunately, the second day’s weather was not as pleasant as the first. The rain required the event to move locations and created less than ideal conditions. With muddy grounds and only tents for protection from the rain, the day got off to a slow start. Nevertheless, everyone kept up their fighting spirit and managed to have a good time. Players gave it their all while slipping and sliding in the on-off drizzle of the day. Luckily, with only a few minor scrapes and bruises, the tournament ended only slightly behind schedule. The top 3 teams, male MVP, and female MVP received prizes, including local specialties such as the famous Tajima beef curry and Kasumitsuru sake. Congratulations to this year’s 1st place winner, team Moriokake, and all the players who did their best! Thank you for making it a great year!

If you are interested in Ultimate Frisbee, please feel free to ask about local teams. It’s a great opportunity to make new friends, especially since sports have less of a language barrier. If you have a team and have not heard of this event, please consider joining next year. If sports are not your thing, consider volunteering and meeting new people. Everyone is welcome. The next Taj Ultimate tournament will be held July 4 and 5, 2015. So come out to the Taj and have some fun in the summertime!

Anastasia Windeler

All photos by Shoco Nakamura