Facing up to a bald fact

More than 30 men gathered at a hot spring facility in Tsuruta City, Japan, on Wednesday to show off their hairless heads and have fun. Members of the city's Bald Men Club took turns competing in a unique game of tug-of-war by sticking a suction cup,
PHOTO: REUTERS

More than 30 men gathered at a hot spring facility in Tsuruta City, Japan, on Wednesday to show off their hairless heads and have fun. Members of the city's Bald Men Club took turns competing in a unique game of tug-of-war by sticking a suction cup, which is attached to a single red rope, to each of their heads. Both sides then attempt to pull the cup off of their opponent's head. Mr Masatomo Sasaki, 64, a first-time participant at the tournament, said he used to feel insecure about his baldness but now feels differently. "I feel good... And that is thanks to this bald men's club."

The club, which has attracted roughly 65 members from all over the country since its founding in 1989, encourages people to "view baldness in a positive manner" according to its website. Mr Teijiro Sugo, 70, the club's chairman, hopes the gathering will turn into something much larger. "I want all the bald men all over the world to gather here so we can organise a bald men's Olympic tournament," Mr Sugo said. The event is held every year on Feb 22.

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on February 25, 2017, with the headline Facing up to a bald fact. Subscribe