12-year-old karate star from Witney joins England squad

Twelve-year-old George Pearce was invited for a trial with the national squad earlier this year.

Since then, he has won gold at the EKF International Open Championships and the United Kingdom International Karate Championships.

He also secured a silver medal at the Dutch International Open in Almere, Netherlands.

George Pearce at the Dutch International Open in Almere (Image: Caroline Pearce) George's mum, Caroline Pearce, said: "George is doing exceptionally well for his age, and has been accepted onto the England national squad on his first attempt.

"His determination and attitude to training and competing is going to allow him to achieve all he sets his mind to.

"We are extremely proud of him for his effort, dedication, and sportsmanship."

Despite his impressive list of achievements, George remains focused on his ultimate karate goal - to represent Great Britain at the Olympics and England at the Commonwealth Games.

To achieve this, he is looking to take part in as many national and international competitions as possible.

George Pearce at the UK International Open (Image: Caroline Pearce) He is set to compete at the Youth League in Venice at the beginning of December.

However, the cost of participating in these self-funded events, including flights, travel, accommodation, kit, and entry fees, is considerable.

George has raised £575 towards his £2,000 target on Just Giving to cover these expenses.

The young athlete said: "I love sport and started karate when I was seven with Sensei Sam and I have been competing for the last two years.

"My overall karate aim is to represent Great Britain at the Olympics and England at the Commonwealth Games.

George Pearce has been accepted onto the England squad (Image: Caroline Pearce) "To achieve this I need to firstly work very hard, but also attend Youth League competitions held around the world and E-Series events so that I can gain ranking points, plus attend as many competitions as possible nationally to get experience and develop.

"We need your help to get me to these competitions, I really appreciate you taking the time to read my story and if you are able to make a donation - however big or small - it will make a huge difference to me achieving my goals."

George has also won the Orleans International Open in France and the Murayama Cup XV in 2024, as well as bronze at the EKF Kyu Grade Nationals and silver at the EKF National Championships.

He also enjoyed an impressive 2023, winning bronze at the Liege International Open, gold at the E-1 series in London and at the Elite International Open, and bronze at the Southern England Karate Open.