Braintree's Simon Williams entered the Funakoshi Cup which was held at the Whitechapel Sports Centre in London, and after competing against some high standard Karate Ka, Simon took first place in the senior Black Belt Kata section.

Then, as a member of the Regent A team, Simon, 33, helped the team to win first place in the senior team Kata section.

This competition was run by the Toyakwai Karate Association which was up to its high standards and successes.

The Funakoshi Cup is a competition held in respect for the father of modern day Shotokan Karate.

The Toyakwai Karate Association are still looking for sponsorship, this aiding many junior and senior competitors to travel and represent their Association and country.

If people are interested in learning Karate, telephone Simon Williams on 01376 322930, and if any company or person may be interested in sponsoring the Toyakwai Karate Association, telephone the General Secretary, Joe Anderson, on 0181 985 6228.

Simon Williams is pictured with the trophy he won after securing first place in the senior Black Belt Kata section in Whitechapel.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.