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.
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.
Kukri Sports and Druids RFC Extend Long-Standing Partnership
Kukri Sports is proud to announce the renewal of its partnership with Druids RFC, reinforcing a successful relationship that has flourished since 2017. This three-year extension showcases both parties’ commitment to providing high-quality, innovative sportswear for athletes at all levels of the club.
Shauna McGill, VP of Communications and Social Media at Druids RFC, expressed the club’s enthusiasm for the continued partnership: “The Druids have long trusted Kukri to outfit our teams, from juniors to seniors, and this renewed collaboration strengthens our successful history of delivering top-quality kit and support to our players. Kukri’s commitment to innovation and exceptional customer service has been invaluable to our club, and we are excited to continue this partnership.
“As we look ahead to the 2025 season and beyond, we can’t wait to take the pitch in our custom-designed Kukri competition and spirit wear. This partnership is a testament to the trust and shared commitment between the Druids and Kukri, and we look forward to what the future holds!”
The renewal comes at a significant time for Druids RFC as the club celebrates its 65th anniversary. In recognition of this milestone, Kukri Sports will be launching a special edition anniversary apparel range, providing club members with the opportunity to commemorate this historic moment in style.
Jamie Williams, Vice President – North America at Kukri Sports, shared his excitement about the continued partnership: “We are delighted to have extended our partnership with the Druids for another three years. We have had a great working relationship with the club since we started our relationship back in 2017.
“The partnership renewal coincides with a significant milestone for the club as they enter their 65th anniversary, and we are excited to launch an exclusive anniversary range of apparel that will be available for club members to purchase in the coming weeks. We have a great footprint across Alberta, and this announcement further cements our position as the go-to brand for rugby in the province.”
Kukri Sports remains dedicated to supporting grassroots and elite rugby teams with premium, custom-designed apparel that meets the demands of modern athletes. The renewed partnership with Druids RFC continues this commitment, ensuring players and supporters alike can represent their club with pride.
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.
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
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