Summer 2025 sees Kukri Sports team up with Dubai Hurricanes in a new partnership, who are one of the UAE’s leading multi-sport community clubs, providing Rugby, Netball and Cricket to over 1000 members.
Under the agreement, Kukri will supply the Hurricanes with high-quality, customised playing kit and training apparel, designed to support the team’s performance on and off the field, oval and courts. This collaboration will also extend to the club’s wider community, including youth teams and development programmes, ensuring players of all ages benefit from Kukri’s premium sportswear.
Founded in 1999, the Dubai Hurricanes have established themselves as a powerhouse in Middle Eastern rugby, boasting a strong presence in both the men’s and women’s leagues and a thriving grassroots programme. The Netball division are the Gulf Ladies League champions and cater to everyone from U6 beginners through to Senior elite players and this year for men with a Mixed squad, in one of the fastest growing sports in the UAE. Cricket is going from strength to strength with a dedicated coach and plans for a youth academy. In addition the club run an Academy taking coaching of all three sports into schools and dedicated netball and rugby hubs. The partnership reflects both organisations’ shared values of performance, innovation, and community engagement.
Chris Marshall, Global Brand Director at Kukri Sports, said: “We are delighted to welcome the Dubai Hurricanes to the Kukri family. The Hurricanes are a club with a rich history, strong community roots, and an ambitious vision for the future. We look forward to working closely with them to deliver high-quality sportswear that reflects their identity and supports their success on the pitch.”
Jim Dickinson Club Chairman Dubai Hurricanes said
“As Dubai Hurricanes move into our 26th Season we are excited to partner with Kukuri for Rugby, Netball and Cricket sections and leisure wear, for the upcoming season.
The design and quality reflects our heritage and history and will be unveiled on the club Memorial Day on 27th September at the 7’s stadium.”
At Kukri Sports, our mission goes beyond high-quality apparel — we are committed to elevating athletes and giving them the platform to excel.
Whether at grassroots level or competing for international honours, we are proud to support athletes and be a long-standing partner of the para-sport community.
As we launch our new campaign to celebrate these remarkable achievements, we want to shine a light on the journeys and voices that inspire us both on and off the field.
Our commitment is rooted in long-term partnerships with organizations like Team England, British Fencing,British Wheelchair Basketball, and England Athletics, as well as leading educational institutions such as Loughborough University.
Together, we provide technical excellence in apparel while amplifying athletes’ voices, breaking down barriers, and inspiring the next generation
Stories That Inspire:
Amy Thompson – Building confidence and visibility
Our ambassador, Amy Thompson, is a rising star in shot put, recently captaining England at the Home Countries U20 International and earning her first call-up to this year’s World Para Championships on 26 September.
“With the help from Kukri, they have really propelled my career, helping me with not only my kit but my social media presence.
“Without their support, I don’t think I would have as many opportunities as I do currently and that comes down to their support away from sport and really building my confidence.”
Hannah Cockroft CBE – Redefining limits
Nine-time Paralympic champion and ambassador Hannah Cockroft CBE has built her career on pushing boundaries.
For Hannah, wheelchair racing is not just a sport, but a gateway to independence and achievement.
“I’m really proud to be a para-athlete. Wheelchair racing is my freedom. The opportunities that being a wheelchair racer gave me ultimately changed my life.”
Hannah also uses her platform to shift perceptions on para-sport, challenging the idea that wheelchair racing is easy or secondary.
“When you have a disability, you are told more often what you can’t do rather than what you can do.
“I like to use my sport to show people what is possible, and hopefully inspire people to challenge themselves and find out what they can achieve.”
British Fencing – Inclusivity in action
Through partners like British Fencing, Kukri supports athletes who prove that inclusivity is the foundation of sporting progress.
For para fencer and coach Aimee Aronica, fencing restored her connection to the sport she had loved for two decades.
“When I acquired my disability, I felt like I lost my sport. Having wheelchair fencing open to me gave me a way to engage with the sport I have spent 20 years competing in.
“If we as a community can make disability less scary and open up para-sport as a place for everybody, I am hoping our sport can grow and be a place where everybody can achieve their dreams.”
For teammates James Peebles and Wiktoria Mucha, para-fencing is both a test of resilience and a transformative journey.
“Being a para-athlete is about proving that a disability doesn’t define what I can or can’t do,” said James.
“It’s about picking myself up when things don’t go to plan, dusting myself off and trying again, as many times as it takes.”
“Wheelchair fencing has changed my life in more ways that I can ever begin to describe,” said Wiktoria.
“Inclusivity in sport is incredibly important to me as it allows me to feel included and a part of something.
“With the support of those around me, I can do anything and forget about the things I struggle with.”
Looking Ahead
At Kukri, we are committed to supporting para-athletes across a range of sports, ensuring their journeys are seen, heard and celebrated.
In the weeks ahead, we will share content offering a closer look at our athletes’ journeys, highlighting the resilience, determination and talent that makes para-sport so special.
Because for us, it’s about more than sport — it’s about breaking barriers, amplifying voices, and inspiring the next generation.
Beyond Limits. Together.
Inclusivity in Sport: Why Ability Should Never Be a Barrier
At Kukri Sports, we believe that sport should be for everyone — regardless of age, gender, or ability. We are passionate about helping athletes and teams of all levels feel included, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Ability, or perceived lack of it, is too often seen as a reason not to take part in sport. From grassroots players just starting out, to seasoned internationals competing at the highest level, every athlete deserves the chance to belong and thrive. At Kukri, we are proud to work with organisations and teams across all abilities, providing high-quality, bespoke sportswear that allows everyone to feel like part of the team — because they are.
Breaking Down Barriers
Barriers to participation in sport can take many forms: physical disabilities, learning difficulties, injuries, or simply feeling “not good enough.” But the benefits of sport — improved physical health, mental wellbeing, teamwork, and confidence — should be available to everyone.
That’s why we partner with a wide range of schools, clubs, associations, and governing bodies who share our belief in inclusivity. Together, we’re helping to create environments where all abilities are celebrated, and no one is left on the sidelines.
Whether it’s designing adaptive kit for para-athletes, supporting grassroots clubs to ensure everyone has access to professional-quality kit, or outfitting elite-level internationals as they represent their country, we are committed to supporting every athlete’s journey.
Supporting Every Level
We know that no two athletes or teams are the same — and that’s why we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. We take the time to understand the needs of each individual or organisation we work with, tailoring our sportswear and service to suit them.
From grassroots:
Helping community clubs and schools inspire the next generation with inclusive, premium quality sportswear.
Through to elite:
Supporting national teams and international athletes with innovative, high-performance apparel designed for the world stage.
And everything in between:
Providing schools, universities, clubs, and associations with sportswear that helps every member feel confident and included, no matter their role or ability.
Sport has the power to unite people and build communities. At Kukri Sports, we’re proud to play our part in ensuring everyone — regardless of ability — feels welcome, valued, and equipped to take part.
If you’d like to learn more about how we can help your team, whatever your level, visit www.kukrisports.com or get in touch with our team today.
Together, we can make sport a place where ev
Paralympic Icon Hannah Cockroft Joins Kukri Sports as New Ambassador
Kukri Sports is thrilled to welcome one of Britain’s most decorated para-athletes, Hannah Cockroft, as its newest brand ambassador, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to inclusivity, performance and empowering athletes at every level.
A Shared Vision of Inclusion and Excellence
A nine-time Paralympic champion, multiple world-record holder and trailblazer in para-sport, Hannah has been a dominant force in wheelchair racing since making her debut for Great Britain at the age of 18.
Her career has long been connected to the national athletics system in the UK, including events supported by England Athletics and British Athletics. Through domestic competitions, talent pathways and advocacy for para-athletes, Hannah has been a visible and vocal figure across the athletics landscape.
As the official kit provider for England Athletics, Kukri has championed athletes like Hannah from grassroots through to elite level. This includes proud support for the Youth Talent Programme, which plays a vital role in developing young athletes, both able-bodied and para, as part of the England Athletics talent pathway.
This shared, inclusive approach reflects Kukri’s belief in championing potential across all disciplines, ensuring the next generation of stars has access to opportunity, resources and representation to help fulfil their potential.
“The First Kit Provider to Join My Team in 17 Years”
“Having the opportunity to be an ambassador for Kukri Sports is incredible – they’re the first kit provider to join my team in 17 years,” Hannah said.
“It means so much to me that they’re supporting a para-athlete, a group who are so often overlooked.
“I find it amazing that Kukri supports athletes at all levels, because the grassroots element is so often ignored, so to be able to work with a brand who have the same values as me makes me feel proud.
“I’m excited to work on developing the perfect kit for me, to gain new experiences, and to be part of something bigger than just sport.”
The announcement follows Kukri’s partnership extension with Team England, where they will continue as the official kit supplier through to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Scotland.
A Legacy of Dominance on the Global Stage
Nicknamed ‘Hurricane Hannah’ for her explosive power on the track, Hannah has delivered landmark moments throughout her illustrious career. She made her paralympic debut at the London 2012 Olympic Games, capturing gold in the T34 100m and 200m events, while setting two new paralympic records in the process.
Her dominance continued with triple gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics and double gold in the 2024 Paralympic Games, bringing her paralympic gold medal tally to nine. She is also the most decorated British athlete in WorldChampionship history, with 16 titles to her name.
Currently, she holds the T34 world records for 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m—an unprecedented feat. In 2022, Hannah was appointed OBE in the King’s New Year Honours followed by CBE in last year’s New Year Honours list, recognising not only her sporting excellence but her tireless advocacy for inclusion and representation in sport.
She was also named British Sportswoman of the Year by the Sports Journalists’ Association in 2017, the first para-athlete to ever receive the award in its 57-year history.
Cockroft has been a proud member of Team England, famously leading a 1-2-3 finish in the T34 100m at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. Kukri’s ongoing partnership with Team England ensures elite athletes like Hannah are equipped to perform at their best on the global stage.
On Track For 2025
Hannah’s 2025 season is already off to a promising start. She recently kicked things off with a 10-day training camp in Switzerland, where she also opened her competitive season.
“I’m currently in Switzerland, where I’ve been on a 10-day training camp before my season opener last weekend,” she shared. “Although there were no records broken, I set World Lead times in the 1000m, 400m and 800m events, so it’s a good place to start.”
With two more meets to go before returning to the UK next week, Hannah has had a busy few days and is laying strong foundations for what promises to be another standout year.
New Goals, Same Drive
Looking ahead, Cockroft is focused on defending her world titles at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi this September and is already laying the groundwork for a historic fifth Paralympic Games appearance at Los Angeles 2028.
“I still have things I want to achieve”, she said.
“I’d love to hold the Paralympic, World, European and Commonwealth titles all at once, and I really believe I can be the first T34 woman to break 16 seconds in the 100m event. “
Empowering the Next Generation
Hannah’s passion for her sports extends well beyond competition. A champion for inclusion and accessibility, she regularly runs ‘come and try’ days for aspiring athletes, holds coaching qualifications, and uses her platform to advocate for better visibility and resources for para-sport.
“When I was growing up, it was so hard to even find out how to get involved in para-sport,” she explained.
“That’s why I try to give back, to make it easier for the next generation to discover what’s possible.
“Of course, we’re still lagging behind in many areas, from sponsorship and funding to spectator sport outside of Paralympic years, but I think opportunity has grown and that’s the most important place to start, as more champions coming through will hopefully then bring the rest with it.”
From the training track to the world’s biggest stage, having the right kit is crucial, and Hannah knows how vital those details are.
“In wheelchair racing, we put so much effort into aerodynamics and speed, so I like my kit to be close fitting, comfortable and doesn’t distract me at the start of a race.”
Standing Together for a More Inclusive Future
As Kukri continues to strengthen its commitment to inclusive sport, the partnership with Hannah marks another significant step forward in championing para-athletes.
“We’re incredibly proud to welcome Hannah to the Kukri family,” said Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports.
“She’s not only one of Britain’s most successful athletes, but also a passionate advocate for inclusion and the growth of para-sport. Her values align perfectly with ours, and we’re excited to support her journey and work with her to achieve her mission.”
With shared values of performance, representation and opportunity at every level of sport, the partnership between Kukri Sports and Hannah Cockroft is set to empower the next generation of athletes, on and off the track.
As preparations begin for this year’s World Para Athletics Championships and beyond, Kukri is proud to stand alongside Hannah in her pursuit of even more excellence and in shaping a more inclusive future for sport.
Kukri Sports Partner Athletes Speak Out on Mental Health
In honour of Mental Health Awareness Week, Kukri Sports is proud to share powerful reflections from its partner athletes on the importance of mental well-being in sport.
From Olympians to grassroots leaders, these athletes open up about recovery, resilience and the reality of life beyond the pitch.
Piper Logan – UBC Women’s Rugby captain (Vancouver, North America)
Paris Olympic silver medallist Piper Logan, captain of Canada’s Women’s 7s team, is currently navigating the challenges of a cruciate ligament injury sustained at the Vancouver 7s.
“I felt like I was constantly falling behind while others kept improving. But over time, I learned to celebrate the little wins and remind myself that growth isn’t always visible.
“I found comfort in focusing on the things I could control like nutrition, habits and reconnecting with the life outside of sport. That helped me feel like myself again.”
Cork Constitution RFC, Men’s First Team (Ireland)
One anonymous first-team player reflects on the often-overlooked mental health challenges that come with playing at a high level.
“Mental health and rugby go hand in hand. Playing helps my well-being through the physical benefits and the social aspect.
“I try to deal with stress by being organised during the week, accepting that not every match goes your way and always having time to relax with the lads.”
Somerset CCC – Jack Leach, Charlie Dean & Alfie Ogborne
Mental health is a growing focus in cricket, a sport known for its long seasons, psychological demands and intense competition.
England internationals Jack Leach and Charlie Dean, as well as Alfie Ogborne reflect on how mindset, team culture and togetherness plays crucial roles in performance and personal well-being.
Alfie said, “You will always see players who are less talented than others do better, and that’s because of their mental approach and preparation.”
Charlie said, “There is always going to be performance pressure, but these days it’s great to see that we are more open about it as that’s how it should be.”
Jack said, “As teammates, we’re always looking out for each other. We have to remember that people go through different things and be there to support them.”
British Rowing – Matt Aldridge & Josh O’Brien
Olympic bronze medallist Matt Aldridge and Paralympic champion Josh O’Brien open up about how team support have shaped their mental resilience.
“The attitude towards mental health has changed quite drastically over the past few years. People are starting to talk about it more openly now, which is really good”, Matt said.
“Any high-pressure environment like rowing, you’re going to have bad days, and if you can share that with different people to pick you up, then that is brilliant.”
Josh added, “Before the Paralympics in Paris, I had a bad back injury. I wouldn’t have gotten through it without my teammates and coaches supporting me through it.”
Sion Bennett – Valley RFC (Asia)
Former Wales U20 and Sevens player Sion Bennett now captains Valley RFC in Hong Kong and leads conversations around mental health.
“Having gone through struggles in sport and life, I’ve seen the impact of community, resilience and simply moving your body,” he says.
After relocating from Wales, Sion leaned on sport to navigate change:
“Being part of a club like Valley helped me build a new support network. Moving overseas taught me more about who I am and helped build self-belief.”
“I strongly believe in creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable to share. You can’t force people to talk about their feelings, but you can make effort with them to talk about their life, their work, have a joke, even if that is a simple hand shake before training, and so when the moment arises that they need someone to talk to they feel like they have built bonds and there’s an environment that they feel like they can share.
As a brand committed to supporting athletes at every level of the game, Kukri stands with these athletes in challenging the stigma and calling for environments where honesty is strength and well-being is a priority.
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.
Kukri Sports and Team England Extend Partnership Ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games
From Glasgow to Glasgow – A Legacy of Pride, Progress, and Purpose.
Kukri Sports and Team England are proud to extend their dynamic partnership through to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, marking a powerful full-circle moment that celebrates over a decade of collaboration, innovation, and shared belief in the power of sport to inspire change.
Announced on St George’s Day, a day symbolic of national pride and unity, this renewed partnership signals much more than a continuation — it’s a bold step forward in championing inclusivity, sustainability, and the remarkable strength of Team England’s athletes — across all disciplines.
As the official kit supplier, Kukri Sports will once again deliver cutting-edge performance wear and delegate kits for athletes, coaches, and staff — while also launching a bold new retail range ahead of the Games. But this isn’t just about what athletes wear — it’s about how they feel when they wear it.
“St George’s Day is a celebration of English identity, unity and pride – values that are reflected in our ongoing partnership with Team England,” said Andrew Ronnie, CEO of Kukri Sports. “From Glasgow 2014 to Glasgow 2026, we are honored to once again support Team England’s athletes as they compete on the global stage.”
Mark Osikoya, CEO of Commonwealth Games England commented; “Our partnership with Kukri began at Glasgow 2014 and we’re delighted to be working with them once again as we return to the city in 2026, marking our fourth consecutive collaboration at the Commonwealth Games. We know how much it means for athletes to wear their Team England kit and as a valued partner, Kukri shares our commitment to inclusion, diversity, and sustainability. Work is already underway to develop a kit for athletes, volunteers and staff that not only supports performance but also prioritises reducing waste, sourcing sustainable fabrics, and incorporating recycled materials.”
Celebrating Every Athlete – Para, Non-disabled, and Across All Genders At the heart of this partnership lies a deep, unwavering commitment to inclusion and equality. Kukri Sports is working hand-in-hand with para-athletes, sport-specific representatives, and advocates for gender equity to co-create apparel that is fully inclusive in design, fit, and function — ensuring every athlete feels seen, supported, and celebrated.
From adaptive fits for seated athletes to accessible fastenings and gender-responsive design choices, the 2026 kit range is being built to perform without compromise — and to proudly reflect the diversity of Team England in all its forms.
Designed for Impact – On the Field and for the Planet
Inclusivity goes hand-in-hand with sustainability — and Kukri is pushing boundaries here too. The Glasgow 2026 range will feature eco-conscious materials, reduced waste processes, and a focus on long-term environmental impact — aligning with Team England’s commitment to creating a more sustainable future through sport.
Whether it’s on the track, in the pool, on the court, or behind the scenes, every athlete and every voice matters — and this partnership ensures they all have the platform they deserve.
“Team England is about unity, resilience, and rising together,” added Andrew Ronnie. “We’re proud to stand behind every athlete — para, able-bodied, first-timer, or returning hero — as they get ready to represent their country on one of the world’s biggest stages.”
As preparations ramp up towards the 2026 games, this renewed partnership ensures that Team England athletes will continue to be supported by world-class apparel, created by a brand with deep roots in the sporting community.
“THIS IS FOR THE WHOLE BAHRAIN RFC COMMUNITY” – JOSH DRAIN REFLECTS ON LANDMARK SEASON AHEAD OF HISTORIC WEEKEND
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 1st XV and 2nd 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 1st XV have earned their place in the West Asia Super Rugby final.
They’ll be joined in the spotlight by the 2nd 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.
Celebrating Female Athletes on International Women’s Day
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.
Inclusivity in Sport: Why Age Should Never Be a Barrier
In a world where sport is often associated with youth and peak physical performance, the idea that age can be a limitation still persists. But at Kukri Sports, we believe that sports such as athletics should be for everyone, regardless of age or background. The beauty of sport lies in its inclusivity—it has the power to unite, inspire, and empower people from all walks of life.
The Myth of ‘Too Old’
One of the biggest misconceptions in sport is that there is an age limit to participation. Whether it’s running, throwing, or jumping, athletics offers a discipline for everyone. The truth is, taking up or continuing sport later in life not only benefits physical health but also enhances mental well-being, social connection, and overall quality of life.
We caught up with Tracey Francis, the Participation Programmes Manager at England Athletics to give her thoughts on the topic, “staying physically engaged supports positive mental health, reduces loneliness and isolation, and provides opportunities to socialise, meet new people, and build friendships.” Physically, “it enhances brain health, bone density, cardiovascular fitness, and muscle tone.” “Regular activity can also speed up recovery from illness or injury and plays a vital role in rehabilitation.”
From grassroots runners finding their stride later in life to former elite athletes staying involved in competitive masters’ events, countless individuals are proving that age is no barrier to achievement. Park runs, veterans’ athletics leagues, and community clubs are thriving with participants who defy the outdated notion that sport is only for the young.
The Power of Inclusivity
Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do at Kukri Sports. Our commitment extends beyond providing high-quality sportswear; we aim to support individuals at every stage of their sporting journey. Through partnerships with clubs, schools, and organisations worldwide, we champion opportunities for athletes of all ages to access the right apparel to perform at their best.
Tracey continued, “We highlight the importance of inclusivity by offering three participation levels: Get Me Started, Keep Me Going, and Challenge Me.” These tiers ensure that individuals of all ages and abilities have tailored training plans to meet their needs. The initiative also provides guide runners for those with visual impairments and dedicated Mental Health Champions to support participants’ well-being.
Sport is about more than just competition—it’s about participation, perseverance, and personal growth. Whether you’re taking your first steps onto a track, returning to the field after years away, or setting new personal records at 60, 70, or beyond, your journey in athletics is uniquely yours.
Overcoming Barriers and Fears
For those hesitant to take part in athletics due to age, England Athletics stresses that running, like walking, is a lifelong skill. With over 40% of RunTogether participants aged 40–55 and 70% female, the programme encourages walking and jogging as an accessible entry point. Running is also a proven rehabilitation tool, with research showing it can slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease symptoms and boost overall well-being.
Tracey explains, “Our approach focuses on real-life participants rather than elite athletes, reinforcing that anyone can get involved.” Their running groups operate on core values of fun, safety, inclusivity, and friendliness, with qualified leaders providing support at every stage.
The Social and Community Impact
Participation in sports later in life isn’t just about fitness—it also enhances confidence, social connections, and community engagement. According to Tracey, “research shows that group running is more enjoyable, social, and safe.” Many groups meet in community spaces and often gather at local cafés after their runs, fostering friendships and support networks beyond the track.
The social aspect of RunTogether is just as important as the physical benefits, and that’s why many groups incorporate social activities into their schedules. Feeling part of a community motivates individuals to stay engaged and continue their athletic journeys.
The Role of Sportswear in Supporting Older Athletes
While comfort is key when starting out, the right sportswear can significantly enhance confidence and performance. Tracey states, “As runners progress, they see the value in investing in proper footwear, technical clothing, and group kits to foster a sense of belonging.”
Kukri Sports is proud to support this movement, ensuring that athletes of all ages have access to high-quality, performance-driven apparel tailored to their needs. Our partnership with England Athletics and RunTogether provides essential support for their voluntary workforce, equipping Run Leader Mentors with Kukri kit to maintain professionalism and visibility within the community.
So, whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a returning competitor, or someone considering taking up athletics for the first time—go for it. Break the barriers, challenge the stereotypes, and embrace the journey. Sport belongs to everyone, and age should never be a reason to sit on the sidelines.
At Kukri Sports, we’re here to support you every step, stride, and sprint along the way – Get in touch