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.
Rising Para-Athletics Star Amy Thompson Extends Partnership With Kukri Sports
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.
BHM: RUGBY SCHOOL TALENT JANE – FROM GYMNASTICS TO NETBALL’S RISING STAR
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.
Ellie Stevens Joins Kukri Sports As Brand Ambassador
Now based in Las Vegas, Ellie is an elite competitor in a variety of running events. Her extraordinary journey, marked by resilience and triumph, perfectly embodies Kukri’s commitment to performance and excellence.
“I am so excited and honoured to become a Kukri ambassador. It’s a brand I’ve followed and respected for years. The quality of their sportswear and their ethos really align with my life values. I’m thrilled to partner with them and contribute to their future success.”
Ellie’s running career has been nothing short of inspiring. After transitioning from dance and gymnastics to cross-country at 13, she quickly fell in love with the sport, progressing to national-level competitions. However, her journey took an unexpected turn in her early 20s when she was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (M.E.), a condition that forced her to put her Olympic aspirations on hold.
“It was a rollercoaster,” Ellie shared. “But with patience, the support of my family, and some amazing doctors, I learned to manage my condition and make my comeback.”
Her resilience in the face of adversity made her a natural fit for Kukri, a brand known for supporting athletes across diverse sports and disciplines. “Kukri manages to bridge the gap between different sports, making us all look and feel great.
“Whether you’re running track, competing in a team sport, or pushing your individual limits, their gear is always functional, stylish and top-quality,” said Ellie.
Looking ahead, Ellie is excited about the new chapter with Kukri.
“Kukri has always been about inclusivity and supporting athletes in achieving their best. For me, that aligns perfectly with my personal philosophy of ‘no stone left unturned’ – always striving to be the best version of myself.”
Jamie Williams, Vice President of North America, expressed his excitement. “Ellie’s journey is truly inspiring, and we are honoured to have her join us. This is another significant milestone for Kukri in North America, as we continue to expand and partner with incredible athletes and teams.
“We’re thrilled to work with Ellie on her bespoke range, ensuring she has the personalised, high-performance gear she needs to continue competing at the highest level.”
Ellie joins a growing list of Kukri ambassadors across athletics, boxing, and beach volleyball. The brand looks forward to supporting her ongoing success and the inspiration she brings to athletes worldwide.
Kukri Sports: Driving Innovation in Hockey Worldwide
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.
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.
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.
Kukri Sports and Partner Athletes Unite for World Mental Health Day
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.
“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.”
“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.
KUKRI SPORTS CELEBRATES 35 MEDALS WON BY AFFILIATED ATHLETES AT PARALYMPIC GAMES
After the conclusion of this year’s Paralympic Games, Kukri Sports are proud to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of its affiliated athletes, who played a pivotal role in Team GB’s success.
This year’s games saw 11 days of exceptional talent and determination on the world’s biggest stage, with Team GB finishing second in the overall medal table with a total of 124 medals.
25 Kukri-affiliated athletes, who also represent key partners such as England Athletics, British Wheelchair Basketball, British Fencing and Loughborough University, showcased remarkable performances.
Collectively, they won an impressive total of 35 medals, including 15 golds, 12 silvers and 8 bronzes.
Dimitri Coutya Shines
British Fencing’s Dimitri Coutya delivered remarkable performances, securing his first paralympic wheelchair fencing gold medal in the men’s foil B category.
As the current world number one, Coutya didn’t stop there, going on to claim a second gold in the men’s individual epee B final. His incredible run culminated with a silver and bronze, finishing the games with four medals across all events and cementing his position as one of the standout athletes at this year’s games.
His teammate, Piers Gilliver, also impressed to win silver in the men’s Sabre A, helping Team GB to finish second in the wheelchair fencing table.
England Athletics’ impressive medal haul
Kukri’s long-standing partner, England Athletics, won eight medals. Headlining the achievements was Hannah Cockroft, who successfully defended her women’s T34 100m for the third time.
Kate Adenegan continued her impressive Paralympic career, winning two silver medals in the 100m and 800m T34 events, bringing her total to seven Paralympic medals, having won silver in every race since Rio 2016.
Dan Pembroke delivered one of the most stunning performances of the games, smashing the world record in the Javelin F35 event with an outstanding throw of 74.49 metres.
His remarkable performance saw him retain his title, reaffirming his dominance on the world’s biggest stage.
Bo Kramer leads Netherlands to glory & GB Men make history
Loughborough Lightning star Bo Kramer delivered a standout performance in the Wheelchair Basketball final, helping the Netherlands successfully defend their Paralympic crown.
As the team’s top scorer, Kramer led her team to a thrilling 63-49 victory against America.
Meanwhile, GB Men’s Wheelchair Basketball team, under the governance of Kukri partner British Wheelchair Basketball, made history by securing their first silver medal in 28 years, marking a major achievement for the sport.
The GB Women’s team also delivered strong performances, finishing fifth overall, showing their growing competitiveness on the world stage.
Loughborough University athletes impress
Loughborough University-linked athletes once again demonstrated their versatility and sporting prowess across multiple sports, securing 19 medals and bringing their combined tally to 35 medals across both games.
Standout performers included Tully Kearney, who claimed two golds in the 100m and 200m Freestyle S5 events. Brent Lakatos added to his medal haul with a gold medal in the Men’s 800m t53 and a silver in the Men’s 400m T35 wheelchair racing events.
Meanwhile, Dave Ellis and his guide Luke Pollard dominated the paratriathlon, winning gold in the Men’s PTVI event.
Commenting on the outstanding successes from athletes linked to Kukri across the Paralympics, Andy Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports, said “We are very proud of the incredible achievements of our affiliated athletes at this year’s Paralympic Games.
“Their dedication, talent, and perseverance has been inspiring, and it’s a privilege to witness them reach new heights on the global stage.
“At Kukri, we are committed to providing the highest level of innovative sportswear for our partners to help these athletes shine on their journeys and achieve optimum performance. Their success motivates us to continue developing cutting-edge apparel that empowers athletes to push more boundaries and achieve greatness.”
Paralympic games medallists affiliated with Kukri Sports:
Ali Smith – Loughborough University (Silver, Athletics – Mixed 4 x 100 metres relay)
Anna Nicholson – England Athletics (Gold, Athletics – Shot put F35 event)
Bo Kramer – Loughborough University (Gold, Wheelchair Basketball)
Kukri Sports has established a significant presence in the world of rugby, becoming synonymous with high-quality sportswear that meets the rigorous demands of the game.
With a relentless commitment to excellence and innovation, Kukri is the leading choice for rugby teams and players globally, enhancing performance both on and off the pitch.
Building a Global Rugby Network
Kukri’s influence in rugby spans the globe, with strong connections to national governing bodies, professional clubs, grassroots clubs and education-based teams in diverse regions.
Partnerships with elite clubs such as Waikato Rugby Club, National Governing Bodies such as Hong Kong Rugby Union, and grassroots clubs like Bahrain RFC highlight Kukri’s ability to deliver tailored sportswear solutions that cater to each team’s unique needs.
A standout in this global network is Kukri’s long-standing partnership with the prestigious Hong Kong Sevens tournament. As a key partner for 19 years, Kukri supplies high-performance kits for both the Hong Kong men’s and women’s teams.
This collaboration was recently celebrated when the men’s team, outfitted in Kukri’s elite sportswear, won the inaugural Melrose Claymores competition.
Strengthening Rugby in Australasia & North America
Kukri continues to make significant strides in Australasia, a region where rugby is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric.
The brand has forged strong partnerships, including being the official kit supplier for Waikato Rugby Club in New Zealand and Norths Rugby Club in Australia.
The long-standing collaboration with Waikato Rugby Club since 2009 underscores Kukri’s commitment to encouraging participation and supporting the sport’s growth, supplying playing and training kits for their NPC and FPC teams, as well as the club’s age-grade teams.
Across the Pacific Ocean, Kukri continues to develop its presence in North America, with partners such as Nova Scotia Keltics, Rugby Alberta and University of British Columbia Rugby.
By supplying these organisations and clubs with market-leading sportswear, Kukri ensures that teams at all levels have access to high-quality sportswear, allowing players to perform with confidence and pride.
Enhancing Rugby in the UK & Ireland
In the UK, Kukri is proud to be the official kit supplier for a variety of teams, including Loughborough Lightning, Manchester Metropolitan University and University of Exeter.
This year, Kukri’s sportswear inspired Loughborough University’s men’s and women’s teams to this year’s BUCS Super Rugby finals, with the men’s team winning their first ever title in an all-Kukri clash against Exeter University.
Kukri also maintains a strong presence in Ireland, partnering with clubs such as Dungannon Rugby Club, Cork Constitution RFC and Galwegians RFC.
Dedication to innovation & quality
Kukri’s presence in rugby is rooted in its relentless focus on innovation and quality. Every piece of sportswear is designed with precision to meet the sport’s intense demands, featuring advanced materials and ergonomic designs that maximise comfort and performance.
As a leading rugby sportswear supplier, Kukri continues to empower teams with sportswear that combines cutting-edge designs, comfort and quality for all levels, from grassroots to elite teams.
Explore Kukri’s bespoke Rugby kits
Elevate your team’s performance with Kukri’s bespoke rugby kits. Discover how our customised sportswear can make a difference.
North America
Login / Register
