Over 400 competitors gathered from around the world for the 50th anniversary All Hawaii Karate State Championships last month, but it was Hawaii's own Jeren Nishimoto who took top honors as the tournament's 2009 Most Outstanding Competitor.

The 11 year-old Nishimoto won 24 of the 29 individual matches that he entered to earn 7 gold, 3 silver and 2 bronze medals. His scores earned him the highest accumulation of total points and a six foot trophy naming him the tournament's most outstanding competitor.

The tournament, which took place November 28 at the Manoa Valley district gymnasium, tested competitors in different areas of karate expertise: kata (the art), kobudo (weapons), and kumite (sparring).

The International Karate Federation sponsored the tournament, which attracted top talent from Japan and the U.S. mainland as part of the event's 50th year golden anniversary.

Nishimoto says that he keeps his competitive edge by consistently training with senseis George Kokata and Eimi Kurita 5 days a week, with additional training on weekends. And with help from his sister, Tahra.

"If it wasn't for my sister, I wouldn't be able to keep on top of my game on a daily basis," said Nishimoto. "She inspires me and helps train with me daily. We are always going at it with each other, and that's what keeps us so competitive."

Nishimoto is a Hawaii Kai resident and attends Niu Valley Middle School. He and his family are members of Soka Gakkai International, a Buddhist organization.

"By striving in faith, I feel safe and it makes be be the best person I can be, especially to others outside of the dojo," said Nishimoto. "Being a good example in life is most important."

Nishimoto has competed in Japan and the U.S. mainland, and hopes to travel to New York for the National competition and to the West Coast of the U.S. this summer.

Reach Caryn Kunz at ckunz1@honoluluadvertiser.com.