Moortown karate champion set for world stage in Brazil

An elite karate champion from Moortown is preparing to take on the world in Brazil this August as he competes against some of the sport’s top athletes. 

At just 24 years old, Jade Stapleton-Smith has already built an impressive international record, competing at European and World Championships since being selected for the England team at the age of 15.

His first World Championships appearance in Italy in 2017 ended with a silver medal, and he repeated that achievement at the European Championships in Portugal last November.

Now, Jade is preparing for another major challenge as he travels to Brazil to compete in both the under-75kg individual category and the male senior team fighting event.

The championships will take place from August 21-23 in Vitória, near São Paulo, and while the prospect of competing against unfamiliar opponents brings some uncertainty, Jade is embracing the opportunity.

Speaking about the upcoming event, Jade said: “Obviously, it’s a bit nerve racking and I’ll be up against new athletes who I haven’t seen before, so I am facing the unknown, but I’m also excited to see new things and to see how I do.”

Jade has been practicing karate since he was just six years old. His parents originally got him into the sport to learn self-defense and build up a bit of confidence. They had no idea it would eventually lead to international competitions.

His  journey has been shaped by key figures in the Leeds community. His first-ever karate teacher, Randolph Williams from Leeds, guided him to his black belt before sadly passing away from lung cancer in 2011. Following his passing, a man named Ryan Tucker took over the club and elevated Jade’s skills to an international standard, allowing him to compete regularly for England.

Behind the medals and international travel lies a demanding routine. Alongside a full-time job in chemical safety, Jade trains six days a week, balancing karate sessions with strength and conditioning work, stretching and recovery exercises.

Reflecting on what continues to drive him, he said: “The sport just keeps allowing me to learn and develop to achieve things I never once thought were even possible. So it’s a great vehicle to keep working on myself, and hopefully fulfil my potential, and see how high I can reach.”

Jade hopes his journey can inspire young people across East Leeds to explore sport and discover opportunities they may never have imagined.

His message to budding karate champions is an inspirational one: “Strive to be the best version of yourself and keep pushing to reach a level that you previously wouldn’t have thought possible.

“Dedicate yourself to something, try your best, and keep finding a way to stay positive, even through hardships and difficult times. There’s always a way to come out on the other side.”

Despite competing at the highest level, Jade says funding remains a major challenge. 

He is currently trying to raise enough money to cover the cost of flights, accommodation and equipment to make his dream of winning the championships come true.

Anyone wishing to support Jade can contact him via Instagram at @jade.s.smith or Linkedin.