Up to 9,000 people will be clamouring inside the Ocean Centre in Daytona Beach, Florida, for the World Martial Arts Games this July.
And 15-year-old Gorleston black belt Gerard Knight hopes to be on the mat representing his country.
The Year 11 student from Ormiston Venture Academy has been practising karate since the age of four. Taking up the sport originally to fend off bullies, Gerard said the sport has become "a way of life".
"I first got into karate because I was getting bullied for being chubby, having big teeth and big glasses," he said.
"I wanted to learn how to defend myself. But over the years, karate has given me so much more than that.
"I love the sport as it's not just about self-defence. It's a way of life and it teaches people self-control and patience."
Gerard also said the sport helps him make mature choices in life. Something that is required of him at his young age as he cares for his mother, Abi, on a daily basis.
Ms Knight, 33, has lived with epilepsy most of her life. Seizures come on suddenly and prevent her from being able to work, cook or even make a cup of tea.
"There was one time I was in the kitchen making a hot drink and I just blacked out," Ms Knight said.
"When I came to, there was a big puddle on the floor. It was only when I started mopping it up that I realised I had badly burned my arm and my hand."
Gerard looks after his mother as much as he can by helping her with her medications, running errands and ensuring the family home is kept clean and tidy.
His mother said: "There was one time I had a seizure while Gerard was halfway through a competition.
"Without hesitation, he dropped his gloves, spat out his gumshield and ran over to make sure I was okay.
"He's such a wonderful person and I am so proud to see how far he has come. This tournament could really help his dreams come true."
After a recent tournament win, Gerard earned a place at the World Martial Arts Games this July. If he is able to attend, he will compete with martial artists from across the world, something he feels could lead him closer to his greater aspirations.
He said: "This is 100% the biggest tournament I have had the chance to go to.
"My ultimate goal is to make it to the Olympics. And competing at the World Games would be a great step in that direction."
Winning 11 medals in Norfolk-based competitions over the past three years, Gerard wants to see how he would fare on a world stage.
"I want a feel for how I would tackle the challenge of having the world watching me," he said.
"I'm usually quite calm under pressure, but I'd love to feel the buzz of performing in front of such a large crowd. Not only that, but it will give me the chance to meet other martial artists and continue to grow.
"Just having the chance to get a step closer to my Olympic dream, it would make my world."
As well as schoolwork, maintaining his regular karate practice and caring for his mother, Gerard also teaches at his home base, the East Coast Black Belt school on Suffolk Road.
He teaches children in the Little Dragons and the Young Jedi evening classes throughout the week.
"Karate makes me want to strive to be a good person," Gerard said.
"I'm quite sociable and I love helping out. I couldn't think of anything better to do after school than teaching at the dojo."
Gerard is currently trying to raise funds to make it to Florida for the World Martial Arts Games. His target is £3,500, which would cover the costs of flights, accommodation and a chaperone.
For more information, visit the Gerard Knight M.O.D (my Olympic dream) page on Facebook.
If you would like to donate, search 'My Olympic dream' at www.gofundme.com
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