OTLEY Karate Centre’s black belt champion James Cape overcame the competition to receive the World Karate silver medal for Shito-ryu kata.

The 17-year-old was crowned champion at three of England’s major open all-styles tournaments — the Shukokai/Shito-ryu Karate Alliance, the Federation of England Karate Organisations and the Shukokai Karate Union’s championships.

As a result of these tremendous successes, the St Mary’s Menston student was, without doubt, first choice when the United World Karate–England team selectors were asked to decide who should represent them at the United World Karate championships.

Cape was joined in the team by his colleague, 16-year-old Cameron Lord, of Prince Henry’s Grammar School.

They were confronted by a huge international entry, 1,400 competitors representing 43 countries. Both teenagers battled away for three gruelling days in Slovenia but it was Cape who shone and managed to reach the weekend’s finals.

After a close-fought contest against the current American champion, he climbed on to the podium to be presented with the World Karate silver medal for Shito-ryu kata.

The Harrogate and Otley Centres’ chief instructor, Ken Gee, spoke about James’ success. He said: “I have always admired James for showing tenacity and maturity way beyond his years. Now he reaps the rewards of all those years of hard work.”