A COLYTON man has fought off other contenders to scoop gold at an international karate competition.

A COLYTON man has fought off other contenders to scoop gold at an international karate competition.

Steve White, 47, was among thousands of people to take part in the International Karate Championships at the Excel Centre, in London.

He won the award in the senior Kata category, which involves carrying out a series of moves, despite only recently getting back into the sport after giving it up 18 years ago.

The carpenter joiner, from Moorfields Road, said: "I'm absolutely ecstatic.

"I have had so many people from karate clubs shaking my hand and saying well done.

"I beat a lot of people who were two or three grades higher.

"To win anything at international level you've got to be pretty sharp and I didn't realise I was anywhere near it.

"I still can't believe it.

"It's a dream come true, especially at this level."

His sensei, Jim Harvey, added: "I think it's a great achievement.

"Steve has really listened over the last few months, and taken everything on board.

"This result not only reflects on Steve, but also the standard which is possible at our club."

Mr White, from Steve White Woodworks, trains with Seaton Shotokhan Karate Club, an association of the karate club in Newton Abbot.

He trains six days a week and his ultimate goal is to get a black belt. He is currently a green belt, on his sixth kwu.

He is also a member of Axe Valley Runners and has taken part in triathlons in the past.

? Karate training takes place at Seaton Martial Arts Centre, in Scalwell Lane.

For more information, call Jim on (01297) 23993.