Author: garethloopdesignagency

18/04/202517/04/2025

A season of determination, unity and top-class performance has brought Bahrain RFC to the brink of history.

This weekend, the teams will take centre stage in regional rugby as both their 1^st XV and 2^nd XV teams compete in finals, with a shot at making club history by lifting two major trophies on the same day.

After a dramatic 29-21 semi-final victory over Abu Dhabi Harlequins, the 1^st XV have earned their place in the West Asia Super Rugby final.

They’ll be joined in the spotlight by the 2^nd XV, who have reached the Super 2s Cup final after beating Dubai Exiles 30-22.

As the official kit supplier, Kukri Sports is proud to have supported the teams throughout their campaign, providing performance-driven kit built for the demands of rugby and other sports at the club.

Kukri ambassador and first XV star Josh Drain, who has featured at both fly-half and full-back this season, knows just how much this means to everyone involved.

“It’s very exciting. Reaching the final is a huge achievement, not just for us as players, but for the whole Bahrain RFC community.”

The squad’s journey to this point has been powered by a strong collective spirit and relentless preparation, having won all twelve of their games so far this season as they head into the final against Dubai Hurricanes.

“We’ve built a really tight-knit group that fights for each other and stays together under pressure.

“We’ve had to overcome a few challenges – injuries, tough fixtures, long away days – but the way the boys have stepped up and delivered every time says a lot about the character of this squad.

“The coaches and support staff have also been outstanding in preparing us week in, week out,” Drain said.

For Drain, a key player in the team, it’s also been a season of personal growth as he continues to transition to a different climate.

“It’s been a great experience for me personally. I’ve learned a lot, grown in confidence and had the chance to really challenge myself in some big moments.

“Playing with this group has definitely brought the best out of me.”

Ahead of the final, Drain admitted the group are fully focused on the task ahead and knows what is required of them.

“We know it’s going to be tough, but we’ve prepared well and back ourselves. It’s just about sticking to what we do best and embracing the moment.”

“Finals are often decided by small margins, so we’ll need to be clinical when chances come and stay cool under pressure.

“If we stick to our systems and keep our discipline, we’ll give ourselves every chance.”

Beyond rugby, Bahrain RFC have enjoyed a standout year across multiple sports. The men’s senior football team lifted the Diogo Pires Cup Final trophy, while their netball sides also delivered exceptional results – with the Division 1 and 2 teams both finishing as runners-up, and the Division 3 team claiming the championship title.

Throughout the season, the players have been backed by Kukri as the club’s official kit supplier, whose performance-focused kit has supported the team every step of the way.

“The kit from Kukri has been good all season. It’s built for performance, lightweight, durable and designed to move with you, which really makes a difference during high-intensity games.

“It’s great to be representing a brand that genuinely supports the team,” Drain added.

Kobus Cronje, Middle East Sales Manager at Kukri Sports, said “We’re very proud of what Bahrain RFC has achieved this season, not just in rugby, but across all their sporting teams.

“To see both rugby teams reach their respective finals is a testament to the club’s depth and culture. It’s been a privilege to support them with high-performance kit that matches their ambition, and we’ll be cheering them on as they go for a historic double.”

Looking ahead, Drain believes this season could be the start for even greater things to come.

“The future is really bright for Bahrain RFC. We’ve got a great culture, strong leadership and a growing base of young talent coming through.

“I’d love to see us build on this momentum and keep pushing the standards even higher, both locally and across the region.”

As the club prepares for a potentially historic weekend, the stage is set – and Bahrain RFC is ready to rise to the occasion.

Kukri Sports wishes both teams and its ambassador, Josh Drain, the best of luck ahead of a crucial weekend.

Find out more about Bahrain RFC.

Find out more about our ambassador Josh Drain.

08/03/202507/03/2025

In honour of International Women’s Day, Kukri Sports is proud to honour the strength, resilience and determination of female athletes from a variety of sports.

This year, we highlight the inspiring journeys of women who have broken barriers and continue to lead the way for future generations.

Andrea Wing-Yan Leung

Women’s rugby player, Valley RFC Women’s team

Andrea Wing-Yan Leung, a dedicated rugby player for Valley RFC, reflects on her journey in the sport, from playing basketball as a teenager to becoming a Premiership-level winning athlete and a role model for young women in the sport.

“It means honour, cherishment and humility to me to represent my team,” she says.

“I am forever thankful to be able to play sport as a female. However, there are still women out there who may not have a chance to play sports or receive an education.

“For 20 years, my parent’s didn’t support me playing rugby – they saw it as a ‘men’s sport’. But I never gave up. Last season, my dad and brother finally came to watch me play in the Grand Championship final. We won, and I got to show them the trophy.”

Ellie Stevens

North America Running Ambassador

Ellie Stevens, a trailblazer in long-distance running, celebrates the visibility and opportunities that women in endurance sports have gained over recent years.

“International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and how much further we can go in empowering women in sports,” she states.

Despite overcoming barriers such as facing chronic fatigue throughout her career, Ellie has proved that resilience is key. “Your struggles do not define you – your resilience does. No setback is permanent. Believe in yourself, be patient and take it one step at a time.”

Claire Dowey

NI Volleyball Women’s team player

For Claire Dowey, a veteran volleyball player and captain of Northern Ireland’s women’s team, International Women’s Day is about celebrating the growing participation of women in sport.

Claire’s experience as a mother and high-level athlete has been a balancing act, but she finds strength in showing her son the value of hard work.

“I want them to see that you can have the lows that sport sometimes brings and still bounce back. You can have your family and still play on,” Claire says.

“I truly believe I became a better player, especially mentally, after becoming a mum.“

Ahead of competing in the St. Patrick’s Challenge on 15 March, Claire was pleased to see how much the sport has grown. “It has been exciting to see the number of girls now playing volleyball increase over the years.

“We are gradually securing more funding which is what is going to really support our female athletes to enable them to have access to great training, high-quality kit and elite programmes.”

Izzy Songhurst

Trampoline Gymnast, British Gymnastics

Izzy Songhurst, and two-time Ladies British champion who made her Olympic debut at Paris 2024, shares her thoughts on overcoming body stereotypes and embracing her strength as a gymnast.

“I have overcome it by doing a lot of work on my psychology, being confident in my body’s ability to execute what I’m asking it to do which has helped me a lot in my performance,” she explains.

“For me, it was about finding a way and trying to be really confident in myself and to remember that it is always enough.”

Chloe Andrews

Rugby player, Dubai College Women’s team

As a young female rugby player, Chloe Andrews is passionate about making the sport more inclusive for girls of all ages.

“Rugby at first can seem very intimidating, but it’s a game of resilience, teamwork and confidence,” she shares.

“As a young woman, I’ve learned that sport is not just physical strength, but mental strength and the ability to lead.

“I feel incredibly proud to be part of the newly growing women’s rugby community. It motivates me to be a role model for younger girls, showing them that rugby and any sport in general can be played by everyone.”

Kukri’s Commitment to Women in Sport

At Kukri, we are proud to support women in sport around the world, empowering them to break barriers and unlock their full potential.

By providing high-performance kit and additional off-field support, we are dedicated to helping female athletes feel confident, embrace their strength, and pursue their dreams.

Together, we celebrate women’s achievements and strive to ensure there are no limits to greatness.

27/01/202523/01/2025

Leading athletes across the UK are embracing the challenge of training in colder, darker conditions.

Kukri Sports understands these demands and is committed to fuelling athletes with performance-driven sportswear designed to keep them focused and prepared, no matter the weather.

Whether you are just starting out on your fitness journey or need more motivation during this time of year, we have got you covered.

Top Tips for Winter Training

To help you stay motivated and perform at your best this winter, here are some top tips for tackling this season’s challenges:

• Layer-up appropriately: Kukri’s lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics keep athletes warm without restricting movement. Our products will help to regulate your body temperature without compromising performance.
• Stay consistent: Maintaining a regular routine, even in the cold, helps athletes stay on track and build resilience.
• Train with purpose: Setting clear goals of what you want to achieve and focusing on specific improvements makes every session meaningful.
• Train with others: Training with teammates is a powerful way to stay motivated and get the most out of a session.
• Celebrate your efforts: Winter training can be tough, but every session brings you closer to your goal. Acknowledge your progress and remember that consistency beats perfection.

Insight from Partner Athletes

We have teamed up with some partner athletes to share their insights on winter training and how they adapt to challenging conditions.

England Lacrosse senior women’s team player, Araminta Loxton-Bernard, highlights the importance of safety and preparation.

“During sessions where it’s cold and dark, having the knowledge that I am visible to cars and bikes, can hear what’s going on around me and don’t have any chance of slipping allows me to train to the fullest and accelerate toward my goals.”

“Post training it is vital to layer back up quickly to keep yourself warm, and Kukri’s endless supply of different warmer options is so important. The tactical jacket or gilet really help my body to regulate its temperature and prevent rapid heat loss.”

England Lacrosse senior men’s team player, Tom Bracegirdle, said “It’s important to take a little extra time to prepare. Warming up thoroughly with dynamic stretching and gradually increasing intensity will help get the blood flowing and prevent injuries.

“Kukri provides a great mix of training gear that allows you to layer up effectively—better to have too many layers and take one off than not enough and feel the cold!“

Chris Hollinshead, an England Athletics level 4 UKA Coach with over 25 years of coaching experience, said “Running in the winter offers a different experience, sometimes enjoyable and other times not so, and the key is to be prepared for that environment.”

“My top tip is to dress appropriately. Also be prepared to adapt the session. This could mean reducing the length of the run when the environmental conditions dictate.”

Barney Bithell, senior men’s hockey player at Loughborough University, adds, “Embracing a structured routine and breaking down goals into smaller milestones helps keep me focused and performing at my best when it’s cold.”

“I find the Kukri winter kit great for training. It keeps me warm and dry and allows me to focus on my performance without being mentally distracted.”

Kukri Sportswear: Designed to Perform

Kukri’s training and leisurewear range is designed to empower athletes in any condition, offering insulating layers, breathable fabrics, and durable designs for peak performance. Explore the full range today and elevate your training this winter.

16/01/202513/01/2025

Kukri Sports is at the forefront of performance-driven fabrics, designed to empower athletes from grassroots to elite level.

In the following article, learn about the innovative materials used in Kukri’s range of sportswear, including moisture-wicking, breathable and sustainable fabrics, and how they are empowering athletes at all levels to perform at their best.

The Power of Performance Fabrics

At the heart of Kukri’s sportswear innovation are its high-performance fabrics, carefully selected to meet the varying demands of athletics, netball, rugby and many other sports.

– Moisture-wicking Technology:

Fabrics like Ascend, S-Spire, and Kohilo absorb moisture from the body, keeping athletes dry and comfortable in high-intensity sports such as netball and rugby.

– Breathability & Comfort:

Materials such as Power Knit and Blitz enhance breathability and regulate body temperature, helping athletes stay cool and comfortable in endurance sports like athletics.

– Durability & Strength:

Built to withstand contact sport like tough tackles in rugby and long endurance runs, fabrics like Blitz, Kohilo, and Tri-Stretch offer unmatched durability, ensuring athletes can push their limits in the most demanding conditions.

– Sustainability

Kukri is committed to reducing environmental impact with materials like Ri-Sist, crafted from recycled polyester to provide sustainable performance without compromise.

Empowering Teams Worldwide

Kukri’s innovative sportswear, trusted by teams like British Gymnastics, Commonwealth Sport Canada, England Athletics, and Somerset County Cricket Club, has empowered athletes worldwide. Notable examples include Loughborough Lightning Netball team, who dominated the Netball Super League to defend their title with dresses that are engineered for performance and comfort.

Similarly, Somerset County Cricket Club, with the support of Kukri, were crowned 2023 Vitality Blast champions, showcasing the strength and durability of fabrics that keep elite athletes at the top of their game.

Jason Kerr, Head Coach at Somerset County Cricket Club, said, “We have been working with Kukri for a number of years and have created an outstanding relationship. They are receptive to ideas and feedback, producing kit that not only looks good but is also comfortable to play and train in. They genuinely consider the needs of the players both on and off the pitch.”

Our Latest Product Developments

As part of its commitment to enhancing performance and meeting the ever-changing demands of sport, Kukri continues to evolve its product line.

Recent updates include:

• A new rowing range – designed for enhanced flexibility and durability to support athletes on the water. Includes a wide range of products, including a unisex rowing suit with a four-way stretch, ergonomically designed with bonded seams to avoid rubbing and tech tops using lightweight recycled polyester.
• Tournament rugby short – Designed with ripstop and tri-stretch fabrics for unmatched strength and comfort during high-intensity play.
• Women’s impact leggings – New and updated leggings that combine a superior stretch with a sleek design, offering female athletes a fit suitable to their needs.

Sophie Birtwell, Product Developer at Kukri Sports, added, “By using cutting-edge fabric technologies and listening closely to athlete feedback, we ensure every garment meets the challenges of the game head-on. Whether it’s moisture-wicking jerseys for rugby or stretch fabrics for netball dresses, we’re dedicated to helping athletes feel confident, comfortable, and ready to perform at their best.”

Built for Every Athlete

Whether you’re a professional athlete or just starting your sporting journey, Kukri has the right sportswear to elevate your performance.

Contact us today and find out how our products can help you achieve your goals.

10/01/202510/01/2025

Kukri Sports is thrilled to announce a new brand ambassador partnership with rising rugby star Josh Drain.

The talented fly-half and full-back, who represents Bahrain RFC, has quickly made a name for himself with his dynamic playing style.

Background and Rugby Journey

Drain, who joined Bahrain RFC in September, a long-standing partner of Kukri Sports for over a decade, is eager to represent Kukri and bring his passion for rugby to the Middle East.

“I’m very pleased to be joining Kukri as an ambassador,” Josh said. “Having worn Kukri kit during my time at Ulster, I know firsthand the quality and performance of their products.

“It’s exciting to now represent the brand and hopefully raise awareness of Kukri more in the rugby community here in Bahrain and across the region.”

Reflecting on his exciting rugby journey, Josh shared, “I started playing for Ballymena Rugby Club and then progressed through to the Ulster Schools Programme.

“I moved to Northumbria University where I played for Northumberland under 20’s, and then in July this year I made the move to Bahrain.

“The transition has been intense with the conditions being tough at first, but I’m loving it here.”

Key Milestones

Josh’s career up to date has been shaped by key experiences, from representing Ulster in their age-grade squads, including the U18 Schools’ and U19 squads, to representing Northumberland U20s.

Some of Josh’s memorable moments on the pitch include winning the Medallion Cup at U16 level and a league title with Northumberland.

The pandemic also played a significant role in his development, as it disrupted his final school year but allowed him to refocus on his passion for rugby.

“Covid made a big difference to my journey, as it ended my final school year, but it also gave me the opportunity to refocus on rugby and enjoy the game again. Since then, it’s been going really well.”

Ambitions with Bahrain RFC and Kukri

As part of Bahrain RFC, Josh is now focused on the upcoming Dubai Sevens, where nine other Kukri partners will be participating at the prestigious event from 29 November to 1 December.

“I’m really looking forward to the [Dubai] Sevens and seeing how we do. Our main focus is on the Premiership rugby final – we’re hoping we can make the play-offs and then anything can happen from there.

“Personally, I just want to play as much as possible, contribute to the team and do my best.”

As an ambassador, the 21-year-old hopes to inspire the next generation of rugby players.

“I want to promote rugby and Kukri, but more importantly, I want to show the fun side of the sport.

“At the end of the day, enjoying the game is what it’s all about, and I hope I can bring that energy to the rugby community with the brand’s support.”

Kukri Sports is thrilled to have Josh Drain as part of the team and looks forward to an exciting partnership ahead.

Find out more about Bahrain RFC

22/11/202421/11/2024

Kukri Sports is proud to announce rising para-athlete Amy Thompson, the current UK number one F41 shot putter, has extended her partnership from England Athletics Youth Talent Programme to become a full brand ambassador.

Amy has had an incredible year, achieving a personal best of over 8 metres, winning the ambulant shot-put championship at the Senior Championships and making her debut appearance at this year’s Loughborough International.

“I’m beyond excited to continue my partnership with Kukri Sports,” Amy said.

“This past year has been a breakthrough for me, and the support I’ve received from Kukri has been a key part of that. It’s been a year full of great milestones, and I’m grateful to have Kukri by my side as I continue to push forward.”

Amy, who is currently studying Biomedical Science at Liverpool John Moores University, is a shining example of dedication and hard work, making her a great fir for the brand.

Reflecting on the Youth Talent Programme and her experience, Amy said, “The education from the programme was invaluable.

“It helped me understand the financial and logistical aspects of the sport and travelling to competitions. Little things like that really help you as a young athlete to develop and gain a broader knowledge of what is involved.”

Looking ahead to the future, Amy is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. “My goal for this year, with the support of the Paralympic Futures Programme, is to compete in more international competitions and continue to improve my training and overall performances,” she shared.

“Hopefully I can get to the U20 World Championships next year and showcase my talent on a bigger stage.”

Kukri Sports is proud to support Amy Thompson and is excited to welcome her as a full brand ambassador.

Keep an eye out for the announcement of our new Youth Talent Programme Ambassadors.

01/11/202431/10/2024

As Black History Month concludes, Kukri Sports proudly spotlights Jane, a standout student-athlete from Rugby School who is making waves in netball with her inspiring journey and bold aspirations.

From Local Talent to International Hopes

For Jane, netball has been a transformative journey that began with exposure to various sports in her hometown. “Sport has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’d started with gymnastics before I’d even begun school,” Jane reflects.

As she grew older, Jane experimented with different sports, but it was in primary school that a netball coach recognised her potential and encouraged her to join a local club.

“My coach really pushed me to keep going. I started trials for county-level competitions and my first franchise, Loughborough Lightning. I’ve never looked back.”

Now a defender for Birmingham Panthers in their U19s long squad, Jane’s journey from early practice to competitive netball has been one of hard work and triumph. “Netball has always been my happy place. There’s nothing like defending – it’s such a thrill to stop a play and protect my team’s side of the court,” she says.

Aiming For the Future: England U17 Trials and International Ambitions

One of Jane’s proudest moments came this year, when she was selected for the England Netball U17 trials and part of their Europe netball squad. “Getting to that level was such an honour. It felt like all the years of training were finally paying off,” she shares.

With her sights set on the 2032 Olympics in Australia, where netball is expected to debut, Jane dreams of representing her country on the world’s biggest stage and aspires to join Australia’s renowned Suncorp League.

“Playing in the Suncorp League would be amazing. Competing in a different league would challenge me and help me grow as a player. In the short term, Jane is aiming to join a Super League team and become part of the England Future Roses squad.

Honouring Black History Month: Celebrating a Legacy of Strength

For Jane, Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of those who have paved the way. “It’s about celebrating amazing Black people who faced tremendous challenges but still accomplished so much,” she explains.

“Their resilience inspires me, and I hope my story can encourage others to keep pushing forward.”

Kukri Sports’ Commitment to Supporting Young Athletes and Future Champions

Kukri Sports is proud to champion young athletes like Jane, providing high-quality sportswear and resources through partnerships with Rugby School and other leading educational institutions.

Our commitment helps students pursue their sports dreams and reach their full potential, from grassroots to global competitions.

22/10/202421/10/2024

Kukri Sports is making waves in the world of hockey, establishing itself as a leading provider of high-quality performance sportswear designed to meet the unique demands of the sport.

With a dedication to quality and innovation, Kukri is becoming the go-to choice for hockey teams and athletes worldwide, helping to enhance their performance on and off the field.

Building a global Hockey community

Kukri’s influence in the hockey community continues to expand, forging strong connections with grassroots clubs and educational institutions around the world.

Partnerships with established grassroots clubs like Pegasus Hockey Club, Provincial Sporting Bodies such as Field Hockey BC, and university teams like Loughborough University and Melbourne University Hockey Club highlight our ability to deliver bespoke sportswear solutions tailored to each team’s specific needs.

Find out more about our partners

A standout example of Kukri’s commitment to the sport is its long-standing partnership with Pegasus Hockey Club, a grassroots team based in Northern Ireland.

As their teamwear supplier for over 20 years, Kukri has played a fundamental role in their success, providing over 5,000 custom-designed kits crafted for peak performance and inspiring players to reach their full potential.

Read more about the partnership.

Expanding Hockey’s reach in Australia & beyond

Kukri has established a strong presence in Australia, a country where hockey is deeply ingrained in the sporting culture.

The brand proudly partners with numerous organisations across the continent, including Cairns Hockey Association, Melbourne High School Old Boys Hockey Club, La Trobe University Hockey Club, Melbourne University Hockey Club and Kedron Wavell Hockey club.

Across the Pacific Ocean, Kukri continues to develop its presence in North America, with partners such as Vancouver Hawks Field Hockey Club and Field Hockey BC.

Fostering grassroots development

In addition to its partnership with Pegasus Hockey Club, Kukri’s strategy is deeply rooted in a commitment to grassroots development.

By supplying schools, clubs and universities with innovative sportswear, Kukri nurtures the next generation of players. The company collaborates with educational institutions including; Nottingham Trent University, Rugby School and Royal School Armagh, with the latter being crowned last season’s Kate Russell All-Ireland Senior Schoolgirls’ title to cap off a dream season.

Dedication to quality & innovation

Kukri’s approach to hockey is grounded in a pursuit of quality and innovation. Each piece of sportswear is meticulously designed to withstand the rigors of the game, utilising advanced materials that enhance comfort, durability and performance.

Kukri offers a wide range of customizable kits that blend design with functionality, ensuring players can perform confidently at every level.

Design your custom Hockey kit

Elevate your team’s performance with Kukri’s bespoke hockey kits, choose from hundreds of designs and get started today.

Design your hockey kit

10/10/202410/10/2024

In recognition of World Mental Health Day, Kukri Sports is standing together with its partner athletes to raise awareness about the importance of mental health in sports.

Athletes from British Fencing, England Lacrosse, Loughborough Lightning & Somerset County Cricket Club have shared their personal stories and advice on how they maintain mental well-being, showing that mental health is just as important as physical fitness in achieving athletic success.

Observed annually on 10 October, World Mental Health Day aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote support for those affected by mental health challenges.

Kukri Sports plays a vital role in helping athletes feel comfortable and confident, both on and off the field. By providing high-quality, inclusive teamwear, Kukri ensures athletes can focus on their performance while feeling supported by their sportswear.

Athletes Reflections:

Will Smeed (Somerset County Cricket Club) emphasizes connection:

“To prioritise my mental health whilst playing professional sport, I make sure to stay connected with my friends and family. This helps me stay level throughout the inevitable highs and lows of sport.

“Being mentally healthy is just as important as physical health when it comes to being able to perform on the pitch.”

Hal Dwobeng (England Lacrosse) highlights balance:

“I’d say making sure I remember to have fun when playing lacrosse, even if it’s something like an international event and regardless of result. As an amateur athlete, it’s important to use the sport as a good life balance from work.

Julie Wise & Freya Moody (England Lacrosse) stresses rest and outdoor activities:

“Resting when you need to! Appreciate the small things.

“I like to spend time outside, either by going outside for a walk or run with my mates to clear my head, which will help me to perform my best on the pitch.”

Kieran Molloy (boxing ambassador) addresses loneliness:

“It can be very lonely as a professional athlete at times. Full-time training away from family and friends, but I always remember why I’m doing this. It’s important to have a reason for why you’re doing something.

“Keeping a small, trustworthy group around you is so important.”

Piers Gilliver (British Fencing) shares insights on pressure:

“Being an athlete comes with high pressure and mental challenges. It’s crucial to take mental health seriously in sport.”

Bella Baylis (Loughborough Lightning) emphasizes the strength in asking for help:

“I’ve come to realise that my mental health is just as important as my physical health. I used to believe that asking for help when I was struggling was a sign of weakness. But that couldn’t be further from the truth; it’s a sign of strength and takes real courage to open up.

“Whether that’s talking to a teammate, coach, family member, or professional, being able to prioritise your mental wellness is vital to make sure you can perform at your best both on and off the court.”

Javier & Joaquin Bello (Beach Volleyball ambassadors) emphasise daily check-ins:

“Mental health is a key part of how we approach our performance. We make it a habit to check in on each other every day, whether it’s reflecting on how we’re feeling after training and matches, or just making sure we show support to each other.”

Kukri is committed to providing athletes with comfortable and inclusive sportswear that helps them feel confident and supported on the field. By promoting mental health awareness and sharing athlete insights, Kukri aims to contribute to a more supportive and understanding environment for athletes of all levels.

For more information on how we can help you with your sportswear needs, get in touch.

If you need mental health support, reach out to your primary healthcare provider for guidance. You can also call Samaritans on 116 123 or click here to view the full list.