KUKRI SPORTS CELERATES PRIDE MONTH WITH VOICES FROM PARTNER ATHLETES
Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate Pride Month by amplifying the voices of partner athletes who embody the spirit of inclusivity, diversity and acceptance in sport.
This Pride Month, we’re shining a light on what pride means in sport, through the powerful words of athletes from our partners including British Wheelchair Basketball, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Exeter and UBC Women’s Rugby in Canada.
What pride means to our athletes
Lucy Robinson, a member of the British Wheelchair Basketball GB Women’s team and 2018 U24 European Championships gold medallist, shares: “Pride Month is a chance to celebrate equality, inclusivity and love… to shout loudly about love being love.”
James Kay, a former national-level track cycling athlete and current Manchester Met University futsal player, emphasises: “It’s a time to celebrate and support others so people can feel they can be their true self without being discriminated against.”
Jennifer Jones, a dedicated player for Manchester Met Women’s Rugby, sees pride as both a personal and collective celebration: “It means a huge sense of community and a celebration of who we are as individuals, regardless of outside constraint.”
Chloe Whitworth, sports president at University of Exeter, highlights: “Pride celebrates the historic significance of LGBTQ+ community and embraces inclusivity by being yourself.”
Anonymous,a current player for UBC Women’s Rugby player, powerfully states: “It’s a time of visibility, reflection and celebration.
“Pride is about rejecting the idea that you have to hide part of yourself to play the sport you love.”
Building inclusive teams and environments
Our partner athletes consistently share how their sport and teams foster a sense of belonging:
– Lucy Robinson (British Wheelchair Basketball): “We are all one. Wheelchair basketball includes everyone — ability, disability, gender, race or sexuality.”
– James Kay (Manchester Met): “We promote campaigns like Rainbow Laces and challenge hateful behaviour.”
– Jennifer Jones (Manchester Met): “Rugby values what makes each player great — it’s made for all shapes of body and mind.”
– Chloe Whitworth (University of Exeter): “We want everyone to feel the benefits of playing without barriers.”
– Anonymous (UBC Rugby): “We live out inclusivity through our culture, conversations and commitment.”
Why belonging in sport matters
Every athlete we spoke to share the same belief: sport should be a place where you’re not only accepted, but celebrated:
– Lucy Robinson: “Sport gives the opportunity to not only be who you are, but celebrate it. Feeling like you belong creates confidence and happiness.”
– UBC Rugby: “Belonging means you can show up without fear, take risks, and be vulnerable. “When sport is inclusive, it becomes a space of healing, empowerment and transformation.”
– Jennifer Jones: Authenticity is rare — and you’ll find yourself 10x happier just being you.”
– Chloe Whitworth: “Sport is a universal language – you should always feel like you can be yourself, surrounded by a close-knit family with a common love.”
– James Kay: “Embrace your true self. You’ll always find a place where you’re accepted.”
Kukri Sports’ commitment
We stand with the LGBTQ+ community in sport and beyond. Together, we can create environments where everyone is respected, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Because sport belongs to everyone.
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.
THE RISE OF WOMEN’S LAWN BOWLS IN CANADA
With women’s participation in lawn bowls rising across Canada, the sport is undergoing a powerful shift – one defined by equity, visibility and international success.
At the heart of this momentum is Kukri Sports, who for over a decade has proudly stood as the official sportswear partner of Bowls Canada Boulingrin.
This partnership has helped to shape a confident, unified image for Canada’s national athletes and also champion the growth of the sport.
A Sport Gaining Momentum
Over recent years, Bowls Canada has seen an encouraging trend of more women participating, entering coaching and officiating pathways, as well as earning recognition on the international stage.
“At Bowls Canada, we believe that advancing gender equity strengthens the entire sport,” said Britany Gordon, CEO at Bowls Canada Boulingrin.
“We are proud of the strides of our female athletes, coaches and leaders are making nationally and internationally.
“With partners like Kukri helping us elevate the profile of our athletes, we are excited for the future of women’s lawn bowls in Canada – one where every woman sees a place for herself, both on and off the green.”
Global Success
The visibility of the sport has been backed by results, with Canadian women making headlines globally.
– Kelly McKerihen earned silver in women’s singles at the 2023 World Bowls Championships, tying Canada’s all-time best finish in the event.
– Canada’s women’s triples team took home bronze at the same event—the country’s strongest team finish in over a decade.
– McKerihen and Emma Boyd went on to win the women’s pairs title at the 2023 Hong Kong International Bowls Classic, a globally prestigious competition.
These podium performances are part of a larger trend: in the last two World Bowls cycles (2016-2023), Canada’s women have won nearly half (5 out of 12) of the nation’s international medals.
In 2024, Louise McLean made history by capturing Canada’s first international para bowls medal, with a podium finish in Women’s singles at the IBD World Championships.
Kukri Sports: More Than a Uniform
Kukri’s decade-long partnership has provided more than just apparel – it’s created a bold and professional identity for Team Canada that reflects the talent and ambition of its athletes.
The visibility and pride that comes from stepping onto the green in Kukri’s custom kit sends a message that Canadian bowlers belong on the world stage.
“Our partnership with Kukri Sports has played an important role in building a strong, professional image for our athletes,” said Britany Gordon.
“Having world-class apparel helps us present a unified, confident Team Canada, which in turn strengthens the visibility and recognition of our women’s teams.
“As we work to grow the sport, the visibility provided by strong branding is a valuable asset in inspiring future female bowlers.”
Jamie Williams, Vice President at Kukri Sports North America, added, “We are incredibly proud of our ongoing partnership with Bowls Canada.
“Over the last decade, we’ve seen remarkable growth in the sport, especially among women athletes. We are fully committed to empowering athletes by providing high-quality apparel to help them perform at their peak.
“We look forward to continuing our support and elevating the success of Canada’s women’s lawn bowlers on the world stage for years to come.”
Equity on and off the Green
Bowls Canada has made gender equity a core part of its mission. Women and men now compete in equal numbers at national championships, supported by inclusive event formats.
Nearly half of the Board of Directors and 45% of certified umpires are women, reflecting strong female leadership across the sport that continues to grow.
From youth to senior levels, Canadian women continue to thrive and are proving that with the right support, access to high-quality sportswear and visibility, success follows.
A Shared Vision for the Road Ahead
Together, Bowls Canada and Kukri Sports are not just outfitting athletes—they’re helping lead a movement. A movement that welcomes women, celebrates success, and inspires the next generation to step up, compete, and lead on and off the green.
We are proud to support Bowls Canada as they continue to inspire through their commitment to equity, excellence and the success of women in lawn bowls.
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.
Jonathan Jones: A Champion’s Journey in Celebration of Black History Month
As Black History Month is recognized across North America this month, we acknowledge and celebrate the journey of Black athletes in the region – those who have broken barriers, redefined excellence and inspired future generations. Kukri Sports, a proud partner of Team Barbados, is honored to support athletes who embody these values on and off the track.
Among those making an indelible mark is Jonathan Jones, a world-class sprinter from Barbados whose journey epitomizes determination, perseverance and national pride.
A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Jones has competed at the highest-level, representing Barbados on the world stage. From the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a bronze medalist in the 400m at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, Jones continues to set records and push boundaries on the track as a Team Barbados athlete.
A Journey of Inspiration and Dedication
Jones’ passion for athletics started during his childhood in Saint Lucy, Barbados, where he participated in various sports.
Watching the 2012 London Olympics ignited a fire within him, with athletes like Kirani James and David Rudisha serving as his role models and playing a crucial role in shaping his love for the 400m and 800m events.
“I was inspired through a series of events in my childhood and adolescent years to embark on my career in athletics,” Jones recalls.
“Watching fellow Caribbean athletes and international athletes compete on the biggest stage was truly inspiring.”
One of the defining moments in his career came in 2014 when he was given the opportunity to represent Barbados.
Despite the honor, he declined, choosing instead to train harder to earn his place.
His commitment paid off when he won silver and bronze medals at the CARIFTA Games in 2015, followed by gold medals in 2016.
“That choice and mindset shaped me as an athlete and person,” Jones reflects. “I always expect to earn my spot and work diligently to make my dreams a reality.”
Representing Barbados on the World Stage
Proudly donning the national colors of Barbados, Jones has embraced his role as an ambassador for his country.
“Whenever I walk around the athlete’s village during a championship, it feels amazing to know that Barbados is being seen and showcased.
“The pinnacle of my joy is standing on the medal podium with my Barbados kit on and our national anthem playing.”
Jones’ drive stems from the dreams of his younger self and his desire to inspire the next generation of Barbadian athletes.
“I continue to do this not just for myself, but for the kids growing up in Barbados. I want to see that if I can do it, they can too.”
Honoring Black History Month
Black History Month holds deep significance for Jones as a time for reflection and appreciation.
“It’s a moment to look back at those who paved the way for us,” he says.
“Coming from an island like Barbados, I have many pioneers and icons to look up to, from sports legends like Sada Williams to national heroes like Bussa.
“It’s about recognizing their sacrifices and using their legacy as motivation to keep pushing forward.”
He also acknowledges the importance of black athletes throughout history in breaking down barriers and standing for social justice.
“We had athletes like Muhammad Ali and Jackie Robinson who fought for equality and paved the way for us to compete freely today.
“Their courage and resilience remind me that sports is not just about competition—it’s about representation, inclusion, and the fight for fairness.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Jones encourages aspiring athletes to embrace discipline and perseverance. “Work so relentlessly that you can’t be ignored or overlooked,” he advises. “Success isn’t guaranteed, but if you give it everything without holding back, you’ll see the results.”
Beyond competition, Jones believes in the power of sports to drive diversity, inclusion, and social justice. “Sports have always played a role in fighting for equal rights and opportunities,” he says. “Athletes today use their platforms to raise awareness and inspire change, and that’s something I want to be part of.”
As he continues his journey, Jones remains focused on future goals—both on and off the track. “I want to compete happily in my Barbados colors again, improve in the coming years, and stand at the top of the medal podium.”
Jonathan Jones is not only a record-breaking athlete but also a symbol of perseverance and national pride. As we celebrate Black History Month, his journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and a testament to the power of dedication, resilience, and representation.
About Team Barbados
Kukri Sports is proud to be partnered with Team Barbados, providing the team and athletes with high-performance sportswear designed to help them unleash their greatness and feel proud to represent their nation and inspire others.
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.
KUKRI SPORTS AMBASSADOR SHINES IN BERMUDA TRIANGLE CHALLENGE
Kukri Sports is thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our running ambassador, Ellie Stevens, at the Bermuda Triangle Challenge.
The event, held from 17-19 February and spanning three action-packed days, featured ten overall races, with Ellie competing in The Chubb Bermuda Triangle Challenge Series of three races in three days.
Ellie’s delivered remarkable performances, winning the PWC Women’s Half Marathon, BF&M 10k and claim the title of overall challenge champion. She also secured second place in the elite invitational mile, an achievement that highlights her extraordinary dedication and talent against hundreds of competitors.
Reflecting on her success, Ellie shared:
“Winning the whole event was an incredible experience. I always strive to be the best I can be, and this weekend was a testament to that mantra.
“Every podium is special, and I’m so grateful to perform at this level.”
The Bermuda Triangle Challenge is known for its demanding schedule, with participants tackling multiple events over a short period.
Ellie’s ability to deliver consistent excellence across all three of her races in just three days was a true testament to her resilience and preparation.
“I take it one day at a time. My approach was simple: focus on each race as it comes, run the mile you’re in, and leave nothing behind. It’s an intense but deeply rewarding experience.”
The elite invitational mile, a fast-paced competitive event, was another standout moment for Ellie:
“The race is just fast and furious. There’s no time to think – you just go all out. I surprised myself by staying up front with the pack and securing second place. It was a true test of grit and muscle memory.”
Preparation Through Adversity
Ellie’s preparation for the event involved training through challenging conditions in the UK, where icy weather added an extra layer of difficulty to her regimen.
However, her mental and physical resilience shone through.
“Mentally, you just have to stay strong and focused. I simulated the challenges of the race in my training and worked closely with my dad and coach to ensure I was ready for anything the weekend would bring.
Ellie also mentioned how her Kukri apparel was vital throughout the event:
“I absolutely love my Kukri kit. It’s stylish, breathable, and perfect for the extreme humidity of the half marathon.
“It gave me confidence and pride to represent such a supportive brand.”
Looking Ahead to the Mesa Marathon
Ellie is now preparing to tackle her first-ever Mesa Marathon on 8 February 2024. This marks a new milestone in her career as she embraces the challenge of transitioning from shorter distances to the marathon.
“This is a big personal goal. Coming from a track background, moving into marathons has been a journey. I wanted to make sure I ready, and then make sure I did one in my 40th year.
“I love a challenge and want to be the best I can be. I know that I will leave no stone unturned and give it my best shot.”
Kukri is very proud to support Ellie on her journey and looks forward to cheering her on at the Mesa Marathon and beyond as she continues to Unleash Greatness.
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.
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