A TEENAGER at a karate club became European champion at a major tournament — just two days after his 18th birthday.

Sam Ernst, of The United Stars Karate Academy (USKA) won gold in the 18 to 20 juniors up to 75 kilos category at the European Karate Championships.

The event took place from October 16 to 20 at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield.

Sam Ernst, of Holcombe Brook, Bury, said: “I couldn’t believe it when I won — I was expcecting to get a bit of a battering.

“This took a lot of hard work and preparation and hopefully I can keep improving from here.”

He added special praise for club trainer and European president of WUKF (World Union of Karate-Do Federations) Peter Allen, who has worked with him for 11 years.

He said: “The support from Peter has been brilliant, as it has been from everyone.”

Mr Allen commended Mr Ernst’s success, suggesting this is a sign of things to come.

He said: “For Sam to win gold at a major tournament at such a young age shows his talent and positive attitude.

“If he carries on alike this, he will win gold for many, many years.”

Two other members of the club, based in Hardman Street, Bury, won individual gold medals.

Danielle Dunn won gold in the 15 to 17 Kadets ippon kumite category, while Martyn Skipper won gold in the 46-50 veterans sanibon kunite category.

The club also won a team gold in the shobo sanbon juniors 18 to 20 rotation category.

In total, USKA picked up medals in 21 categories in total — six gold, 10 silver and 32 bronze.

Mr Allen was keen to highlight the good work done by everyone at USKA. He said: “I’m proud of everyone and thank them for their professionalism.”