Reform-minded former yokozuna Takanohana was elected to the 10-man Japan Sumo Association board Feb. 1.

Takanohana was among 11 candidates running in the governing body's first board election in eight years, held because of his surprise departure from the Nishonoseki faction.

Takanohana, 37, drew 10 votes. "I'm honored to have received votes from nine stable masters. I'd like to take responsible action," said Takanohana, who cast a ballot for himself to make it 10. "Today is my start. I'd like to listen to young stable masters as much as possible and take their opinions to board meetings."

A total of 111 members of the association cast ballots. Musashigawa was re-elected as chairman of the association by the new board shortly after the vote.