Competitive Karuta is a thrilling sport based on a traditional Japanese card game using a set of 100 classical poems known as waka. In recent years, it is gaining fans outside of Japan, thanks to its exposure in manga and anime. The sport demands a wide mix of talents, including a strong memory, fast hand reflexes and stamina. The highest accolade in Competitive Karuta is the title of Meijin. We take a closer look at one Meijin's rise to dominance and explore the appeal of this unique and tensely-fought sport.