OTLEY Karate Centre’s black belt karate champion James Cape beat off 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 17-year-old St Mary’s 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.

Cope 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 onto 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.”