A PROMISING young karate student from York who was chosen to represent Great Britain in a tournament in the United States is looking for help to raise the £4,000 cost of the trip.

Sam Tai, 14, a pupil at Fulford School, has already raised £1,000 through washing cars and taking on a paper round. However, he still needs £3,000 to make his dream come true and be able to compete in Florida.

Sam also has the backing of staff and pupils at Fulford School. James Shutt, head of PE, said: “He is an extremely hard-working pupil who is heavily involved in sport and extra-curricular activities at Fulford and has given up his own time to help with younger year teams.

“The fact that he has been selected for the British representative team to travel to Florida for the US Open/World Martial Arts Championships in July shows his commitment to the sport and the sacrifices he has had to make in order to ensure preparation is complete.”

Sam’s mother, Jane, said being able to compete in America was his dream.

She said: “He got into karate when he started classes at Fishergate School when he was six or seven. It has taken a lot of dedication, but he stuck with it because he had the goal of getting his black belt.

“He has seen some of the older students come back from America with trophies and that’s his dream. The difference I have seen in him since he was called up is amazing. He seems to have grown up and matured and is doing everything he can to get to America.”

Sam was recently given a boost a by Active York, which agreed to provide £250 while his school said it is looking to provide the £300 for Sam’s GB tracksuit and equipment.

The school is also appealing to business, organisations or individuals, to sponsor Sam.

Anyone who can help is asked to phone the school on 01904 633300.