FantasyAnalysis

From Finance Analyst to Sumo Data Master: Building a Sumo Dashboard for the Fukuoka Tournament

TLDR: I’m a finance analyst who knew zero Python, but I used Gemini to write all the code, connect to a public Sumo API, and build a clean, simple data dashboard called Sumo Stats. I made it so my friends and I can analyze unique stats—like how small rikishi beat giants but lose to mid-weights—before our trip to the Fukuoka Grand Tournament!

The Arena of Inspiration: Why I Built a New Sumo Dashboard

As a Finance Analyst, I live in spreadsheets, pivot tables, and dashboards. My world is about taking complex data, finding the patterns, and presenting a clear story. Recently, my interest shifted from quarterly earnings to rikishi (Sumo wrestlers).

This November, my friends and I are heading to Japan to see the final Grand Sumo Tournament (Basho) of 2025 in Fukuoka! We’ve all recently gotten hooked on the sport, and naturally, our group chat exploded with stats and predictions.

I started looking for online dashboards we could use to easily track our favorite wrestlers and make informed predictions. What I found was often overly technical, cluttered, or just not user-friendly.

I didn’t need a complex academic tool; I needed a simple, clean dashboard that anyone in our group could use to see the unique factors—height, weight, and winning techniques—that influence the bouts. I wanted to share something easy for my friends to get excited about, and I wanted to learn to use coding in the process.

AI: The Ultimate Code Shortcut

My biggest obstacle was simple: I had strong analytical skills from my finance background, but no way to actually obtain the historical Sumo data. The solution came when I found a public Sumo API. The data was available; I just needed a way to ask for it. I decided to treat this project as my personal coding crash course, with Gemini as my technical co-founder. I didn’t master Python; I used AI to write the Python. I’d give it the prompt: “Connect to the data source, extract the entire history of bouts, and save it to a CSV file.” My ‘Aha!’ moment came when I successfully ran that first major extraction, seeing thousands of bout records instantly appear in my Google Drive. The barrier was broken, and I knew I could build a simple, powerful tool for the Fukuoka trip!

The Sumo Stats Pipeline: From Raw Data to Live Dashboard

Using my finance background in process design, I structured the data pipeline:

Extraction: Python code (written by Gemini) connects to the Sumo-API and pulls the raw data as a CSV.
Automation: I upload the CSV to Google Drive. Gemini then helped me write an App Script that automatically imports and updates the data into Google Sheets, keeping the dashboard current!
Visualization: I imported the data from Google Sheets into Looker Studio (Google’s dashboard tool), where I applied my analyst skills to design the visual layout—simple, clean, and focused on our key questions.

Sumo Stats is Born! Unique Insights for the Fukuoka Draft

The power of this dashboard lies in the unique insights we can now use to impress (and probably annoy) each other with predictions during the Fukuoka tournament. Plus, these stats will be critical for the Sumo Stable/Draft we’re planning, complete with trades and replacements throughout the tournament!

Here are a couple of my favorite findings so far:

Height and Weight Match-up Dynamics: It’s not a simple case of “heavier is better.” I found that the small rikishi actually perform quite well against the very heaviest opponents, often outmaneuvering them. However, they tend to struggle the most against the medium-weight wrestlers, who seem to possess the perfect balance of mass and agility to counter them. This discovery proves that it’s not just about size; it’s about the match-up dynamics.
The Daily Bout Winning Trend: By analyzing daily win/loss ratios across tournaments, I noticed a fascinating trend: some rikishi are truly “morning fighters” or “closers.” Certain wrestlers do exceptionally well on the early days of a tournament but fade later, while others are slow starters who dominate the final weekend. Tracking these patterns will give us a huge edge in our Stable/Draft picks!

The dashboard also provides deep dives into Kimarite (winning techniques) ratios, allowing us to see which technical moves are the most reliable. We’re going to be the most prepared group heading into Fukuoka!

Your Skills Are Transferable: A Call to Action

I started this project to create a simple tool for a trip with friends, with zero confidence in my coding ability. I finished it with a live, sophisticated dashboard and a newfound appreciation for what I can accomplish with AI assistance.

This journey is proof that:

Your professional skills are powerful, and they are transferable.
AI is an indispensable tool for turning personal ideas into reality.
You can and should use AI to adapt the skills you already have to new challenges!

If I can use my skills in SQL, pivot tables, and financial analysis to build a sophisticated Sumo dashboard, imagine what you can build by applying your expertise to your own passion project. Go find your AI co-pilot, and start building!

[Spoiler Alert] Stormlight Archive Books 6-10

Introduction

: The rhythm of my feet hitting the pavement has become synonymous with the voices in my ears. Running is my meditation, my escape, and often, my classroom. When people ask what occupies my mind during those long miles, the answer is usually podcasts. And within the vast landscape of audio entertainment, fantasy reigns supreme for me. It was a recommendation from a good mate that first introduced me to the monumental Stormlight Archive. From the moment I cracked open (in Audible) The Way of Kings, I was utterly and irrevocably hooked by Brandon Sanderson’s intricate world-building, compelling characters, and the sheer scope of the Cosmere. It felt like discovering a hidden continent on a well-loved map.

Fast forward a bit, and another friend, Leighlan, also succumbed to the allure of Roshar. Serendipitously, we both independently stumbled upon the fantastic podcast, Lost in Roshar. Listening to their deep dives into The Way of Kings, their insightful theories, and their palpable enthusiasm was like finding fellow travelers on this epic journey. We’d eagerly tune in, soaking up their analyses and then bouncing our own nascent ideas around. As the anticipation for Wind and Truth built, we decided to embark on a similar read-through experience ourselves. Every couple of days, we’d connect, dissecting chapters, sharing our reactions, and venturing down the rabbit holes of Cosmere speculation.

Key Takeaways from Our Stormlight Journey

This shared reading experience with Leighlan turned out to be more profound than I initially anticipated. It wasn’t just about discussing plot points or character arcs; it became a genuine point of connection. It stirred up a powerful sense of nostalgia, reminding me of those cherished mornings as a kid, glued to the television for the latest episode of Dragonball Z, and the immediate rush to school to dissect every moment with my mates. There was a shared excitement, a collective anticipation that felt almost communal.

In a way, I think the immediacy and solitary nature of streaming services have, in part, eroded this kind of shared cultural experience. While convenient, it often lacks that delayed gratification and the subsequent eagerness to discuss and theorize with others. Our Stormlight read-through brought that back – the anticipation between our check-ins, the excitement of sharing a particularly impactful scene, the collaborative brainstorming of “what comes next?” It was a reminder of the simple joy of experiencing something amazing alongside a friend and the richness that shared speculation can bring. This is definitely a tradition I’m keen to continue as we delve into the next five books (one day…).

Tin Foil Theories and Spoilers for Books 6-10

(The following section is adapted from an email Leighlan and I sent to the awesome folks at Lost in Roshar.)

G’day Fellas,

We are humble Aussie mates who independently found your podcast and have turned into epic fans. Your podcast has been an absolute blast to listen to. We both devour your theories and predictions, and the way you dissect every detail of the Stormlight Archive is truly impressive. Your enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s inspired us to start having similar discussions and ‘check-ins’ with each other as we read through Wind and Truth together. It’s been a fantastic way to enhance the reading experience.

Our Predictions that came (mostly) true in Stormlight 5: We’ve been reflecting on our pre-Stormlight 5 theories, and we’re pretty proud of these predictions that came (mostly) true:

Dalinar the Unmade: I will admit, this one was a big tin-foil theory at first. Dalinar would lose the contest, and Odium would make him the 10th Unmade. This would break the bond Honor had holding Odium to the Rosharan system. Book 5 would end with Odium being the bad guy of the whole Cosmere.
Listeners (Venli) taking up Odium’s power and that it was always in the shattered plains.
One that was an absolute failure: Syl was the author of Wind and Truth.

Stormlight Archive Books 6-10 Spoilers: We’ve been brainstorming some crazy theories for Books 6-10, and we wanted to share a few with you (brace yourselves!):

[Death Rattle] I climb! I climb the wall of grief toward the light, locked away above! I climb, the weight of my darkened twin on my back, and seek the captive! The light I love! I … Storms … the light I love! This relates to Dalinar & Blackthorn: This Death Rattle could foreshadow Dalinar’s internal conflict as he grapples with the weight of his past sins and the immense pressure of leadership. He may have to confront a “darkened twin” within himself, perhaps a manifestation of his past rage and violence. The “light” could be Evi, as he turns towards redeeming his past sins. In this scenario, Adolin, picking up Nightblood in Shadesmar (which appears “shiny” in that realm), regretfully finishes off Dalinar, ultimately forgiving him.
Connection to Scadriel: With Roshar in fast-motion and all other Cosmere at a ‘normal’ speed. Was this done by the other Shards to give themselves more time (as Dalinar had said)? Will doing this lead to a connection of timelines? The theory posits that Roshar is currently operating in fast-motion compared to the “normal” speed of other Cosmere worlds. This acceleration may have been intentionally orchestrated by the other Shards to buy themselves more time, as Dalinar had previously speculated. This accelerated timeline could potentially lead to unforeseen connections and disruptions across the Cosmere. Cultivation gathers the other Shards, but this unification leads to a split within the group, creating factions. For example, Cultivation and Harmony might align, while Retribution and Autonomy form a separate coalition.
The End of Odium: The other Shards may hold the Kharbranth people hostage to force Taravangian/Retribution’s hand. Retribution plans to double-cross his own coalition. Witnessing the ensuing destruction, Honor may renounce Taravangian and bring the power of Stormlight back to Roshar. Splinters of Shards, even after the Shards themselves are involved, retain a degree of independent power. These shards and their splinters might “unite” towards a common goal. They could potentially “pause” or distract Odium while the other Shards prepare a powerful, Cosmere-wide attack, perhaps akin to a “Spirit Bomb” from Dragon Ball Z.

Roshar Joke

What did the one-armed Herdazian say to the peg-legged Alethi? …… I dunno, I’m Stumped!

Thanks again for all the amazing content, Lost in Roshar. We can’t wait to see what crazy twists and turns await us in the remaining Stormlight books. We are both big Jimmy fans and can definitely relate as we both feel like we are holding onto our oath stones as we stumble our way through Roshar. You will be missed. Storm Bless you both.

Keeping our safehands covered,
Radiant Ross and Listener Leighlan

Down Under Diaries: Seattle Year One – An Aussie’s Honest Take

G’day, folks! So, me and the missus, we’ve been living in Seattle, Washington, for a year now, after chucking a sickie to leave sunny Oz. It’s been a real eye-opener, a proper mixed bag, ya know?

The Good Oil:

Everything’s Fair Dinkum New: From seeing snow (a bloody novelty!) to exploring all these new spots, it’s been a ripper adventure.
National Parks? Bloody Oath!: Crikey, these national parks are somethin’ else! We’ve hit up Yosemite, Zion, Olympic, Rainier, and Bryce Canyon. As a trail runner, it’s like winning the lotto. The scenery’s bonza, absolutely unreal.
What’s On? Heaps!: There’s always somethin’ happenin’ here. Gigs (Killswitch Engage, Motionless in White, the lot), sports (still barracking for the NRL, mind you), races, events – you name it.
Work’s Sweet: The pay’s decent, and there’s heaps of opportunities in my field. Can’t complain!
Weather? She’s all good mate: Was expecting constant rain and cold when we first thought of moving here, but it’s actually sweet as.

The Not-So-Good Bits:

Tipping? it bloody sucks: Yeah, this tipping thing’s still a bit of a head-scratcher. Still tryin’ to get my head around it.
Social Issues? Bit Rough: Homelessness, social security, and safety – it’s a bit confronting, to be honest. Redmond’s alright, but downtown Seattle and other places are a different story. Found a bloody gun in an iHop, and saw someone who’d probably overdosed on a morning run. Bit of a shocker.
People? A Bit Stand-Offish: People aren’t as friendly as back home. On the trails, you’d usually get at least a nod, but here? Forget about saying g’day. Maybe it’s just a city thing.
Prices? Bloody Expensive!: Eating out? Jeez, it’s pricey. Makes ya miss the local pub feed and a $5 schooner.
FOMO? Bit of a Pisser: The “fear of missing out” thing, especially with trail running races, is a pain in the backside. Getting into those big races like Hardrock or Western States is near impossible.
Missin’ the Mates: Being away from family and mates is tough, no doubt about it.
Public Transport? A Bit Rubbish: For a place with all that railroad history, the public transport system is a bit of a letdown.

The Bottom Line

It’s been a bloody rollercoaster, this first year in Seattle. We’ve had some unreal experiences, and we’re still getting used to the place. We’re grateful for the opportunities and adventures, and we’re just takin’ it as it comes. And that’s the bottom line, cause Stone Cold said so!

My First Hyrox: Guadalajara - Tough, Fun, and Definitely Doing it Again!

Just finished my first Hyrox event in Guadalajara, Mexico on February 8th, 2025, and wow, what an experience! If you’re thinking about giving Hyrox a go, let me tell you a bit about it and why I think you should absolutely take the plunge.

Training? Not So Much…

Okay, so let’s be honest, my training for this event was… minimal. I’d dabbled in some gym trials, but nothing Hyrox-specific. Living in Seattle hasn’t helped my running game lately with the cold weather making it tough to get motivated. In hindsight, a practice run in the weeks leading up would have been a smart move, but lesson learned for next time!

Baptism of Fire in Guadalajara

“Tough” doesn’t even begin to cover it! This event was a real eye-opener. It was my first time encountering some of the Hyrox stations, like pushing and pulling that monstrous 150kg sled. Let me tell you, adding in the ball throws to basketball height and running between stations really ramps up the challenge.

Despite the toughness, it was genuinely a lot of fun. There’s a real sense of accomplishment crossing that finish line knowing you pushed yourself.

Burpees: My Nemesis

If there was one exercise that truly tested me, it was the burpee broad jumps. 80 meters of those bad boys sent my heart rate through the roof! It took a while to bring it back down after that station. Definitely going to be practicing those before the next event.

Would I Do it Again? Absolutely!

Despite the struggles and feeling completely wiped out afterwards, I’m already thinking about the next one. I’d 100% recommend anyone reasonably fit to give Hyrox a crack. It’s a fantastic challenge and a great way to test your overall fitness.

Room for Improvement

I reckon with some proper, structured training, I could shave off a good 10 minutes from my time. That would still leave me miles off the pros, but it’s a personal challenge, right? The main thing is to improve and see what I’m capable of.

My Results

Goal Times

Final Verdict

Hyrox Guadalajara was a fantastic, albeit tough, experience. It’s a great event, and I’m already looking forward to the next one with some serious training under my belt. If you’re looking for a fitness challenge that’s both physically and mentally demanding, give Hyrox a go – you won’t regret it!