Timeline Photos In 1985 I was photographing a young William Thomas competing at Crystal Palace at the British Karate Championships… In one fight an opponent clashed with Will and delivered a vicious excessive punch to the face, Will's opponent was given a warning, then Will casually picked up one of his teeth from the mat and showed it to the referee! Somehow the fight was allowed to continue.
What came next was incredible. Will set up his opponent and delivers an incredibly timed Gyakuzuki (reverse punch) to the torso, the power was controlled but it lifted his opponent clean off the floor and sent him flying through the air. A perfect focused delivery and clear Ippon. I caught this peak of the action, a decisive moment (if you like) on B/W film, my shutter released in perfect synchronization with the punch, I have never forgotten taking that shot..
Will went on to win the under 21 British title that day and it was the beginning of an amazing competition career leading to world championships and world games gold medals…
My photo was at the time published in a martial arts magazine in an article about the championships. 30 years later I have unfortunately lost the negative, and any existing copy of the print. So have recreated that moment with Will and his son Jordan. Now a European Champion himself. A digital pastiche of a very special moment..
Can I ask if there are any martial artists out there who still have copies of old magazines from that time I would love to see it again. Meanwhile I must live with my interpretation of what was indeed a Perfect Strike! ... See more
