A young boy who was heading down a rocky path will now head to Okinawa, Japan to compete in the Karate World Grand Prix under the training of his mentor Nick King.
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Thirteen-year-old William Cripps found joining Nick King's Jin Ryu Kan Martial Arts Academy therapy for negative emotions.
Cripps will be part of a local team to compete on the world stage representing Australia with 15 other countries in attendance on August 10 and 11.
With a history and love for karate, Cripps started training with Nick after moving to Inverell.
"I started going to Nick's because I went off the rails hanging out with the wrong crowd also had a lot misplaced anger. Now nothing can keep me away from training, Nick is a great mentor to me," the youth said.
Generally training around 13 to 15 hours per week, Cripps is dedicated and has a future goal to qualify for the Olympics.
Starting different forms of karate from the age of six in Brisbane, he also trained with Chaffeys Black Belt Academy in Tamworth when he was 10.
I've learnt a lot about myself since I've been training in Jin Ryu Kan.
- William Cripps.
The rising talent said he was excited for Okinawa, felt physically and mentally ready, and looked forward to meeting fighters from different countries.
"This will be my first time travelling overseas but I speak a fair bit of Japanese, it's my best subject at the moment."
Cripps previously completed at the NSW Koshiki Contact Karate Invitational in Tamworth around April and most recently in Brisbane Koshiki Karate Tournament hosted by Titans Martial Arts Academy.
In Tamworth, he won his first fight and came close in the second, losing by just one point.
At Brisbane, Cripps was up a division against two older fighters who were strong and experienced.
He lost his first flight but came back in the second to earn himself third place.
"I've learnt a lot about myself since I've been training in Jin Ryu Kan and I really enjoy the competition side of it, I am always pushing myself harder and to learn more."
A fundraising raffle is being held for Cripps and other competitors who are heading to Okinawa. So far around $4000 has been raised.
Tickets are $2 each or three for $5 with a chance to win $500, $250 or $200 in cash and a number of items donated by generous local businesses.
If you would like to show your support, purchase a raffle ticket at Nick King's Lifestyle Centre or the Tat's Hotel.
