Citizenship Application Delay Threatens Teen’s European Karate Championship Hopes

The aspirations of a 14-year-old boy for a karate championship have been “jeopardised” due to a pending citizenship application. Mayon, a black belt residing in Barnsley, received selection to represent England at the European Shotokan Karate-do Association European Championships. His mother, Nilupuli Samarasinghe, stated that despite his UK birth, he remains registered as an asylum seeker. Despite this bureaucratic impediment, Mayon maintained hope, declaring: “Nothing’s going to stop me.” Mayon’s parents, originally from Sri Lanka, submitted his citizenship application in 2020 and are currently awaiting a decision from the Home Office. Mayon drew inspiration from his mother, also a black belt, whom he observed training since he was three years old. He stated: “Karate is the only thing that I love.”The one thing stopping me is the one thing I can’t control – the passport situation. It really hurts.” His parents relocated from Sri Lanka to the UK over two decades ago as asylum seekers. Consequently, despite his UK birth, Mayon was required to apply for citizenship, a process they undertook for the second time in 2020. They indicated that without citizenship, Mayon would be unable to participate in the championships scheduled for 22 November in Portugal. The Queen Elizabeth Grammar School student commented: “Even though everyone calls me the ‘karate kid’ it’s a bit of a shame that I can’t go because all I’ve wanted is this.“But I’m going to do everything I can.”When I get my citizenship and passport, I’m going to win for my mum and dad.” The coach of the Karate Union of Great Britain England national squad, which had chosen him, characterized the situation as “disappointing”. Sensei Frank Brennan stated: “I was even more disappointed and shocked to discover that his application was made four years ago.“This situation is now jeopardising his attendance at the European championship and the opportunity to represent his country.” Mayon’s family reported that they had consistently requested updates from the Home Office regarding their son’s application status, only to be informed it was “ongoing”. Ms Samarasinghe remarked: “I’m disappointed, every morning Mayon asks me if I’ve heard anything from the Home Office.“I feel really down, because I’m really worried about my son now. It’s not fair on him.” The Home Office website indicates that applicants typically receive a decision within six months, though some cases may require a longer processing time. The BBC has sought comment from the Home Office. As he awaits news, Mayon maintains his training regimen. Ryan Tucker, his instructor from Leeds Shotokan Karate Club, observed that the youngster’s talent was notable from an early age. He stated: “Even back then, it wasn’t normal to see a child with the attitude and spirit which some adults never quite get to.” He added: “The attitude that he’s shown all his life – as long as long as he keeps that determination, that fight, the opportunities will come and I have no doubt about that.” Highlights from South Yorkshire are available on BBC Sounds, the latest episode of Look North can be viewed, or stories for potential coverage can be submitted here. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding its approach to external linking is available.