Author: Karl

27/06/202418/06/2024

encing, the centuries-old art of swordsmanship, is more than just a relic of historical combat; it is a dynamic sport that combines agility, strategy, and precision. Fencing is a unique discipline that sharpens both body and mind. Whether you’re a budding athlete or someone looking to try something new, fencing offers a challenging yet rewarding experience.

What is Fencing?

Fencing is a sport that involves two competitors facing off with swords, aiming to score points by making contact with their opponent in designated target areas. There are three main types of weapons used in fencing, each with its own rules and techniques:

• Foil: A light thrusting weapon that targets the torso. Points are scored by hitting the opponent with the tip of the blade.
• Epee: Similar to the foil but heavier, with the entire body as the target area. Points are scored with the tip of the blade.
• Sabre: A light cutting and thrusting weapon where points can be scored with the edge of the blade, targeting everything above the waist.

Why Choose Fencing?

Fencing is often described as physical chess. It requires quick thinking, strategic planning, and lightning-fast reflexes. The sport enhances cardiovascular health, improves coordination, and builds strength. Moreover, it instills discipline, focus, and a deep respect for the opponent.

Getting Started in Fencing

For those interested in getting into fencing, starting is simpler than you might think. Here are some steps to guide you:

Find a Local Club: Look for fencing clubs in your area. Many clubs offer beginner classes, which are perfect for those with no prior experience.

Attend a Class: Most clubs provide introductory sessions where you can learn the basics of footwork, blade work, and the rules of the game.

Get the Right Gear: Initially, clubs often provide equipment for beginners. As you progress, investing in personal gear is beneficial.

Practice Regularly: Like any sport, regular practice is key to improvement. Attend classes consistently and practice at home if possible.

Join Competitions: Once you’re comfortable with the basics, participating in competitions can greatly enhance your skills and experience.

How Kukri Can Support

Equipping yourself with the right sportswear is crucial in fencing, not just for performance but also for safety. This is where Kukri Sports comes in. Known for their high-quality sports apparel, Kukri Sports provides fencing enthusiasts with top-tier sportswear designed for comfort, flexibility, and protection.

Kukri is a proud to partner with British Fencing, aimed at enhancing the experience for fencers across the UK. This partnership includes the supply of a full range of training and leisurewear.

Conclusion

Fencing is more than a sport; it’s a journey into a world of tradition, skill, and personal growth. Whether you’re interested in the elegance of the movements or the thrill of the duel, fencing has something to offer everyone. With the support of Kukri Sports and their collaboration with British Fencing, you can embark on this adventure fully equipped and ready to excel. So, why wait? Pick up a sword, step onto the piste, and discover the exhilarating world of fencing today.

21/06/202420/06/2024

Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its two partners, Loughborough Lightning and Severn Stars, on reaching this season’s highly-anticipated Netball Super League Grand Final.

As the official competition and leisurewear provider for both teams, Kukri have been a dedicated partner for both teams throughout their journeys. We provide high-performance dresses designed for comfort, agility and peak performance on the court.

Both teams have displayed exceptional talent and unwavering determination throughout the season.

Seasons overview

Severn Stars sealed their place in a first-ever Netball Super League semi-final following a pulsating 61-56 away win at Leeds Rhinos, with their resilience and talent on display throughout.

Following an all-Kukri showdown in the final league game of the season, Lightning’s 72-60 win over Severn Stars confirmed a home semi-final against London Pulse. Meanwhile, Severn Stars face Manchester Thunder in their semi-final, with both matches taking place on 29 June.

The Grand Final will take place at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham, on 29 June, with the top four teams coming together for one final day to decide the placings for this season. Following a third place play off, the best two teams will go head-to-head in the final to determine this year’s champions.

Our support

Kukri is proud to partner with both teams, facilitating their performances with high-quality netball dresses that have played a role in their incredible performances on the court.

These dresses are meticulously crafted with cutting-edge technology to empower the players and unleash their full potential.

By combining a sleek design with performance-enhancing technology, our netball dresses provide Severn Stars and Loughborough Lightning with the confidence and freedom of movement they need to dominate the court.

Reflecting on a fantastic season and how Kukri provides support, Gabby Marshall, captain at Severn Stars, said “I am so proud of the team for making the finals, it’s been a huge effort from everyone involved.

“We have had a brilliant season and that has been helped through our partnership with Kukri. We all absolutely love our playing dresses – they are so comfortable which allows us to easily focus on our jobs on the court!

“We are all so excited to represent Severn Stars over the finals and look to continue making history for this fantastic club.”

Loughborough Lightning captain, Nat Panagarry, who recently made her landmark 150^th appearance, expressed her delight at the team making their fourth consecutive Grand Final.

“Really proud of the group for securing a home semi-final this Saturday. We never take that for granted as players & we’re enjoying the buzz around the club going into Finals.

We know Pulse are an incredible side with world-class players & we’ve been working hard as a group this week to make sure we are prepared. I know it will be an amazing game & we can’t wait to put out a good team performance in front of our home fans. See you on Saturday. Ready for battle Lightning fans!!”

Commenting on the success of both teams, Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports, states “We are incredibly proud of Severn Stars and Loughborough Lightning for their achievements this season. Their success reflects their hard work and our commitment to providing them with the best support possible to thrive on and off the court. We wish them the very best in the finals.”

Images Credit: Tara St Clair

Looking ahead to the finals

As the Netball Super League Finals Day approaches, Kukri is exited to witness the culmination of a season filled with dedication. We are confident that both Severn Stars and Loughborough Lightning will continue to inspire with their exceptional talent and sportsmanship.

Kukri wishes both teams the very best of luck ahead of Finals Day.

Find out more about Severn Stars

Find out more about Loughborough Lightning

How to watch

You can watch the action unfold on Sky Sports’ official YouTube account, or by alternatively purchasing tickets from the following link here.

Get in touch

At Kukri Sports we deliver superior sportswear and exceptional service, driven by a deep understanding of the athlete journey from grassroots to performance sport.

Get in touch today to learn how Kukri Sports can support you in your journey.

17/06/202414/06/2024

In a world where mainstream sports often take precedence, Kukri Sports stands firm in its belief that every sport, regardless of its level of exposure, deserves recognition and support. Our commitment to championing sports seen as ‘niche’ extends beyond merely providing apparel; it’s about enriching the global sports culture and ensuring that every athlete has the opportunity to showcase their talents.

Our partnerships with organisations such as England Lacrosse, British Fencing, British Wheelchair Basketball, and Pickleball Ireland exemplify our dedication to inclusivity and excellence. Through these collaborations, we offer tailored support to each sport, ranging from designing specialised apparel to sponsoring events and initiatives that promote growth and participation.

England Lacrosse benefits from our collaboration in its development across all levels, from grassroots to elite competition, ensuring that players have the necessary resources for success. British Fencing and British Wheelchair Basketball receive our commitment to inclusivity through customised apparel that enhances performance and aligns with the unique demands of each sport. Pickleball Ireland, with its growing community, is also fully supported in nurturing the sport and equipping players with high-quality sportswear tailored to their specific needs.

At Kukri Sports, inclusivity is ingrained in our ethos. We firmly believe that every athlete, irrespective of their sport’s mainstream popularity, deserves the opportunity to pursue their passion and realize their aspirations. Through our innovative sportswear and steadfast support, we are broadening the horizons for niche sports and fostering a more inclusive and diverse sporting community.

Join us as we continue to dismantle barriers and celebrate the passion, dedication, and diversity that define sports. Together, let’s ensure that every athlete, regardless of their chosen sport, has the platform to shine. At Kukri Sports, we take pride in supporting athletes in their quest for excellence.

Your Sport. Your Team. Your Design

At Kukri Sports, we support athletes across over 100 different sports worldwide. From cricket to rugby, hockey, netball athletics, and niche sports, our customisable apparel is designed to enhance performance and fit your unique needs

With Kukri Sports, you’ll find the gear you need to succeed, no matter your sport – Get In Touch

31/05/202428/05/2024

In the world of sports, where the spotlight shines on the stars, it’s the unseen dedication and expertise that truly powers every performance. Join us as we peel back the layers and delve into what happens “behind the seams,” spotlighting the craftsmanship that fuels our passion for bespoke sportswear.

For 25 years, Kukri Sports has been a pioneer in sportswear innovation, but our true essence lies in the craftsmanship woven into every fiber of our business.

At the core of our operations is a customer-focused team, each a specialist in their role. From visionary designers who create impressive designs to precision pattern-makers who translate these concepts into tangible form, every stitch stands as a testament to their expertise. It’s an intricate operation where each thread weaves a narrative of our steadfast dedication to excellence.

But we’re not just about crafting apparel; we’re about empowering athletes to soar. Recognising that every sport, team, and athlete is unique, we tailor our solutions with precision. Through cutting-edge technology and a profound understanding of performance, we create bespoke sportswear that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s a jersey built for durability, a kit designed for aerodynamics, or a uniform optimised for agility, our custom-made sportswear is a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence.

But our journey doesn’t end in the factory. We thrive on collaboration and partnerships, listening intently to the needs of sporting institutions and co-creating to bring their visions to life. It’s a bond of trust and fueled by a shared passion—a journey where we grow together.

As we look ahead, our commitment remains steadfast. We’re constantly pushing boundaries, exploring new materials, and pioneering techniques to redefine the future of sportswear. Yet, amidst the progress being made, one thing remains unchanged: our unwavering dedication to athletes.

Behind every victory, there’s a story—a testament to the individual spirit of those who dream of success. At Kukri Sports, we’re honored to support these stories, weaving our legacy behind the seams of sporting greatness. Join us on this exhilarating journey where craftsmanship meets passion, and together, let’s elevate the game to new heights and unleash greatness.

08/05/202409/05/2024

Kukri Sports is thrilled to announce a new three-year partnership with Balmy Beach Rugby Club, based in Canada, as their official on-field and off-field apparel supplier.

Balmy Beach Rugby Club is a renowned institution in Canadian rugby, boasting a rich history and successful programs for senior and youth players. Kukri is excited to support the club over the next three seasons by providing custom-designed apparel that reflects Balmy Beach’s proud legacy as a leading Canadian rugby club.

“Kukri Sports is excited to be supporting the club over the next 3 years with custom products and designs which will look to promote the proud history of Balmy Beach as a leading club in Canada. Look out for the club members sporting their new Kukri leisure, training and performance apparel during the 2024 season.” Dan Gordon, Easter Canada Sales Manager – Kukri Sports

The exclusive partnership with Kukri North America allows Balmy Beach to design and deliver competition, training, and spirit wear that fosters a unique identity for each team while maintaining a consistent look and quality that aligns with the club’s vision and values.

“Balmy Beach RFC is proud to announce a new partnership with premier rugby kit designer and supplier Kukri Sports.  The Beach has been a long-time customer of Kukri, from our juniors to our senior teams, and this new partnership solidifies our ongoing successful collaboration to deliver best in class kit and support to our players and teams.  Kukri has always provided excellent and innovative customer support and products to the Beach; looking forward to hitting the pitch in 2024 (and into the future) in our custom designed Kukri competition and spirit wear.” Chris Kalbfleisch, Junior Rugby Director, Balmy Beach RFC.

About Balmy Beach Rugby Club

The Balmy Beach Rugby Club (established in 1955) is a large and successful rugby club in Toronto with a rich history. They offer programs for men, women, and youth (from U8 to U18+) and focus on fostering a love for the game in a fun and progressive environment. They are especially proud of their Senior Men’s section’s 13 McCormick Cup wins (tied for most in Ontario Rugby history). New and experienced players are always welcome.

Find out more about Balmy Beach Rugby Club.

To find out how we can support your sportswear needs, contact us.

25/03/202419/03/2024

As a leading bespoke sportswear provider for the last 25 years, Kukri Sports is embarking on an exciting journey of expansion into new territories, including Saudi Arabia, China and South Africa. With a strong presence already established in Canada, Ireland, the UK, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, Kukri is well-equipped to extend its global reach and offer unparalleled support to athletes, clubs, and educational providers in these dynamic regions.

In regions like Saudi Arabia, where sports participation is experiencing significant growth and diversification, Kukri’ expansion promises to meet the rising demand for high-quality sportswear. By offering personalized design consultations, efficient logistics, and distribution channels, Kukri ensures that athletes in Saudi Arabia have access to apparel that not only meets their performance needs but also reflects their unique identity and aspirations.

Similarly, in South Africa, a country renowned for its passionate sports culture and rich sporting heritage, Kukri’s entry into the market opens doors for local clubs and schools to access world-class sportswear solutions. By understanding the specific challenges and aspirations of the South African sporting community, Kukri Sports is well-positioned to provide tailored support that facilitates growth and success at all levels of the sports ecosystem.

“I am thrilled by Kukri Sports’ expansion into Saudi Arabia, China and South Africa. Our commitment to excellence and passion for empowering athletes transcend borders, and we are excited to bring our top-quality sportswear and unwavering support to these dynamic regions, fostering growth and success at every level of the sporting community.” – Andrew Ronnie, CEO of Kukri Sports

As Kukri Sports continues to push boundaries and expand its reach into new frontiers, one thing remains constant: their unwavering dedication to excellence and their belief in the transformative power of sport. In Saudi Arabia, China, South Africa, and beyond, Kukri Sports is not just outfitting athletes; they’re shaping the future of sports and inspiring a new generation of champions across continents.

07/02/202407/02/2024

In a testament to the enduring collaboration between Kukri Sports and the Oakville Crusaders Rugby Club, Kukri continues to provide all Crusaders teams, coaches, and supporters with custom-designed apparel, enhancing the team’s presence both on and off the pitch. This ongoing commitment underscores Kukri’s dedication to supporting grassroots rugby and fostering the growth of clubs.

A Seamless Fusion of Performance and Style

Expressing his delight about the continued partnership, Dan Gordon, Eastern Canada Sales Manager for Kukri Sports, states, “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the Oakville Crusaders Rugby Club. The Crusaders’ rich history and passion for the game align perfectly with Kukri’s values. We are excited to contribute to their success both on and off the field.”

Chris Tudor Price, President of the Oakville Crusaders Rugby Club, echoes this enthusiasm. “ Kukri have been great to work with and we look forward to our continued partnership. The Kukri team is really centered on understanding our needs and makes it easy for us to work with them, from design through ordering, production and delivery.” he affirms “The Kukri line of garments are always fantastic quality and very durable which is important to us as much of our kit is club-owned and we expect it to last for multiple years.

They are an excellent team with equally excellent products and we’re proud that Kukri is our official kit supplier.”

More Than a Sportswear Provider

Going beyond the role of a kit supplier, Kukri remains dedicated to being a true partner to the Oakville Crusaders Rugby Club. The company will collaborate closely with the club to develop custom designs that reflect the team’s unique identity and traditions. Kukri will also continue to offer support for the club’s marketing and promotional initiatives.

About Oakville Crusaders Rugby Club

As a registered non-profit organization with a history spanning over 50 years, the Oakville Crusaders Rugby Club has been nurturing a love for rugby in Oakville and surrounding communities. From U6 boys and girls to the senior level, the club provides players of all ages and abilities with the opportunity to learn, grow, and compete – Find Out More

We are confident in the ongoing success of this partnership, and we anticipate continued mutual benefits for both Kukri Sports and the Oakville Crusaders Rugby Club. We eagerly await the sight of Crusaders players and supporters proudly donning their cherished Kukri kit!

18/01/202418/01/2024

Kukri Sports is pleased to announce the extension of its longstanding collaboration with Field Hockey BC, marking over a decade of successful partnership. Under this renewed agreement, Kukri will continue to provide high-quality sportswear for all representative teams, catering to the needs of athletes, staff, and coaches both on and off the field.

“Field Hockey BC has both fostered and enhanced a formal partnership with Kukri Sports for well over a decade. On behalf of the Society, I cannot emphasize how beneficial it can be to work in partnership with a Company that show the willingness to not only understand unique customer needs but where feasible truly embrace an organized sports value proposition to its participant membership.

The Kukri Sports apparel lines are of exceptional quality offering the ability to choose designs, fabrics, and cuts across what is often a diverse audience and associated price point. From an operational standpoint, customer service and patience of service is essential, and Kukri Sports offers the highest standards of customer care. The team at Kukri Sports represent an experienced, knowledgeable, and innovative apparel solution to Field Hockey BC’s desire for standardization, customization, choice, and affordability.

Why a partnership for so many years? It’s simple, Kukri Sports values partnership and as a partner is prepared to go above and beyond to deliver an exceptional outcome.” Mark Saunders, Executive Director, Field Hockey BC

Jamie Williams, Vice President – North America, Kukri Sports commented “We are delighted to have extended our long-standing partnership with Field Hockey BC, who were one of our first major partnership signings having entered the Canadian marketplace over 10 years ago.  Our partnership aims to provide value for all levels of Field Hockey Athletes within BC. 

One of the initial requirements we were tasked with was developing a unique identity for the program that would stand the test of time and ensure athletes were instantly recognizable, so it is great to see that 10 years later after multiple fabric and product developments the overall look and identity of the program, whether it be staff or athletes is still cohesive and consistent with their brand requirements.”  

Field Hockey BC serves as the Provincial Sports Organization (PSO) dedicated to the support and development of field hockey in the province of British Columbia – Find out more

For inquiries about bespoke sportswear and to explore how Kukri Sports can meet your specific sportswear needs, please Contact Us

08/01/202408/01/2024

In a significant strategic move, Kukri Sports has been acquired by the businesses Group Executive Chairman Andrew Ronnie, marking a new era for the renowned sportswear brand. This management buyout sees Andrew Ronnie taking the reins from the previous majority shareholders.

With a commitment to encouraging growth and innovation, this transition is poised to usher in a bright and promising future for Kukri Sports. The buyout ensures a seamless continuity for the brand’s esteemed partners, while also paving the way for new opportunities and pioneering initiatives in the bespoke sportswear market.

Kuits Solicitors, played an instrumental role in overseeing the legal aspects of the sale, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition of ownership.

NatWest bank have provided financial assistance, aiding the transition and are committed to support the business with its future endeavors.

Commenting on the acquisition, Andrew Ronnie stated, “Acquiring Kukri Sports is a significant milestone in my journey. Having been with the business for many years I am deeply committed to building on the brand’s legacy and steering it towards a future filled with growth, innovation, and unparalleled quality. With the support of our partners and the dedication of our team, I am confident that Kukri Sports will continue to thrive and set new benchmarks in the industry.”

The management buyout underscores a strategic vision aimed at harnessing the brand’s potential, capitalizing on emerging market trends, and reinforcing Kukri Sports’ position as a leader in the Global bespoke sportswear market.