A Harvey karate champion has gone from the top of the State to the top in the world at the weekend, claiming gold at an international competition.
Sophia Tomas fought her way to gold after sweeping the competition at the International Shotokan Karate Federation’s World Shoto Cup held in London at the weekend.
More than 350 competitors from 18 countries, spanning six continents, took part in this year’s Shoto Cup, with Tomas competing in the over-18s.
Only last month, Tomas celebrated her victory at the Japan Karate Association-Shotokan Karate Club State Open Championships, winning gold in the open kumite (fighting) tournament.
Speaking to the Reporter after that victory, Tomas said she had some nerves for the then-upcoming ISKF competition, but said she was “locked in” to winning gold.
“It’s all or nothing at this point,” she said.
“My aim is gold, but as long as I have tried my best, I will be happy.”
Tomas’ best turned out to be more than enough to earn the young karate champion the top international spot.
