A SEA of white uniforms filled the Cannonvale State School hall this morning for the 2016 Queensland Kyokushin Union Junior Karate Championships.

More than 102 competitors aged 6- 17 competed in the tournament with some travelling from the Gold Coast and as far north as Townsville.

Organiser and head karate instructor for the Whitsunday region, Wayne Hinschen said the numbers were impressive for a small area.

"We've been holding the tournament for a little over 30 years now and each year it's getting more and more successful," he said.

"A lot of the competitors started when they were about five years old and are now fighting in the 16 and 17-year-old division."

Today's tournament consisted of both non-contact and full contact heats.

Mr Hinschen said non-contact allowed the younger competitors to learn the rules and build their bodies for higher grades.

"(Non-contact) allows them to get used to the different movements and learn what it's about," he said.

"Then we have full contact for if they want to have a go and if so, they put protective gear on to prevent injury."

Involved in karate for 40 years, Mr Hinschen said it took a great deal of respect and discipline, traits which were then mimicked in day to day life.

"The lower grades are taught to respect the higher grades and that also goes into life where they learn to respect other people," he said.

"It also teaches discipline and encourages them to get out there and enjoy themselves."

Mr Hinschen said the kids loved getting involved.

"They're very nervous when they get out there but you see them in their chairs on the side lines, cheering each other on and it's really great," he said.

"Win or lose, they always have a good time."