Category: News

Glasgow played host to ten action-packed days of competition (23 July – 2 August), as approximately 3,000 athletes from 74 nations and territories competed across 10 sports and six para sports at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Kit built for the big stage

Kukri proudly supported five partner nations throughout the games – Team England, Team Canada, Team Barbados, Team Guernsey and Team Anguilla, creating official kit and delegate wear for hundreds of athletes to compete on the biggest stage. Kukri also supported Netball Northern Ireland, with the team securing their first-ever Commonwealth Games victory against Trinidad and Tobago.

Ahead of the games, Kukri unveiled the official Team England competition kit, designed in collaboration with Team England and inspired by Glasgow’s creative identity – drawing on the city’s street art and design heritage.

The collection was also built with sustainability in mind, featuring increased recycled materials and reduced packaging across production.

A games to remember

Across the five nations, Kukri-kitted athletes won a combined 174 medals – including 48 gold, 67 silver and 59 bronze.

Team England finished second overall in the medal rankings, with Team Canada third, while Team Barbados and Team Guernsey each celebrated silver medal success.

Standout performances

Team Canada:

– Won medals in eight of the nine events they competed in

– Kylie Masse became the most decorated Canadian female athlete in the pool, with 11 total Commonwealth Games medals

– Set new Commonwealth records in seven separate events across the games

Team England:

– Nathan Maguire retained his title in the T54 1500m event

– 3×3 basketball team successfully defended their gold medal against Australia

– Mark Swan won England’s first-ever gold in the men’s lightweight powerlifting event

– Thomas Young celebrated his birthday in style, winning gold in the T38 100m event, having narrowly missed selection for Birmingham 2022

Team Barbados:

– Sada Williams claimed Barbados’ sole medal – winning silver in the women’s 400m final

Team Guernsey:

– Alison Merrien secured Guernsey’s medal – winning silver in the women’s bowls singles

Looking back at the Games

Reflecting on the games, Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports said, “We couldn’t be prouder to see our partner nations compete at a fantastic Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

“The feedback on the kit has been fantastic, and to see the athletes performing at their best while wearing it means everything to us. We were honoured to play a part in these nations creating new legacies and memories that will last a lifetime.”

Kukri would like to congratulate every athlete, coach, support staff member and nation who contributed to a magnificent ten days of sport in Glasgow.

We are proud to have stood alongside our teams every step of the way and celebrate the incredible achievements that made the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games one to remember.

Kukri Sports is pleased to announce the extension of its partnership with the Barbados Olympic Association (BOA), continuing a relationship that has supported Team Barbados on the world stage since 2018.

Over the past seven years, Kukri has supplied bespoke apparel for Barbados’ athletes, coaches and officials competing at major events including the Commonwealth Games, Pan American Games, Central American and Caribbean Games, and the Olympic Games. Each collection has been designed to combine technical performance with designs that reflect the pride and identity of Barbados.

This includes new kit designed for the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Santo Domingo CAC Games, which features Barbados’ new logo and a bold new look to celebrate a new era on two big international stages.

The renewed agreement will see Kukri remain the BOA’s Official Apparel Partner, providing competition, training, travel and presentation wear as Team Barbados prepares for the next cycle of international competition.

Jamie Williams, Vice President at North America, said:

“We’re delighted to continue our partnership with the Barbados Olympic Association. Over the years we’ve built a strong relationship, and it’s been a privilege to play a small part in the journey of Team Barbados. We look forward to continuing to provide high-quality apparel that athletes can wear with pride whenever they represent their country, especially at the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Santo Domingo CAC Games.”

Gail Craig, Barbados Olympic Association Inc. Chair of the Uniform Committee, said “Over the years, Kukri has outfitted our athletes for numerous prestigious competitions, including the CAC, PanAm, Junior PanAm, Commonwealth, and Commonwealth Youth Games. They also supported our weightlifting team and, most recently, our rugby team at the Santo Domingo 2026 CAC Games.

“Our athletes are always proud to represent us in Kukri apparel. To us, Kukri feels like family. We deeply appreciate their dedication, particularly their focus on providing sustainable and recyclable fabrics, which reflects our own commitment to environmental responsibility.”

The extension reflects Kukri’s continued commitment to supporting athletes and sporting organisations around the world with bespoke teamwear designed for performance, comfort and national pride.

Why choose Kukri Sports

Quality

Performance garments built for heavy use and repeated washing.

Reliability

Guaranteed lead times and consistent fulfilment.

Long-Term Partnership

Stable supply and dedicated account management.

Professional Image

Sportswear that reflects school pride and heritage.

Ease of Management

Online systems that reduce workload.

Sustainability

Responsible materials and ethical production.

Five nations, one stage, a commonwealth of ambition. Discover the teams, athletes and stories to watch as Kukri’s partners prepare for Glasgow 2026.

Team England: Chasing Commonwealth success

Team England arrive in Glasgow as one of the leading sporting nations in the Commonwealth after an impressive Birmingham 2022 campaign, finishing second on the medal table with 57 golds.

With world-class athletes across a range of sports, expectations will once again be high as they target more standout performances.

They will do so wearing a kit that reflects performance and place. Unveiled by Kukri, the design draws inspiration from Glasgow’s iconic art and architecture, combining bold visuals with high-performance materials developed alongside athletes.

Team Canada: A nation built for big moments

Canada enjoyed a hugely successful Birmingham Games, finishing third overall with 92 medals, including 26 golds.

Among the standouts was Summer McIntosh, who at just 15 claimed gold in the 400m individual medley, while also breaking a record and adding five more medals.

Known for producing elite talent across sports, Canada will arrive in Glasgow with a combination of experienced performers and emerging athletes eager to make their mark.

Kukri will once again provide official ceremony wear and athlete apparel, continuing a successful partnership from the past two Games.

Team Barbados: Pride, passion and opportunity

For Barbados, the Commonwealth Games represent more than competition – they are a chance to shine on one of sport’s biggest stages.

After securing three medals at Birmingham 2022, including a gold medal from Sada Williams in the women’s 400m, the nation will look to build on that success and inspire the next generation.

Kukri’s long-standing partnership with Barbados continues into Glasgow, with designs that proudly showcase the nation’s identity and colours.

Team Anguilla: Inspiring a nation

Commonwealth Sport Anguilla will head to Glasgow determined to showcase the talent, dedication and passion that exists across the Eastern Caribbean nation.

The Games provides a unique opportunity to compete alongside the world’s best, create lasting memories and inspire future generations.

Kukri will once again support the team with performance apparel designed to reflect the pride and identity of the nation on the international stage.

Looking ahead to the games, which begin on 23 July, Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports, said “We are incredibly proud to support our partners at the Commonwealth Games.

Team Guernsey: Small island, big ambition

Team Guernsey return to the Commonwealth Games looking to build on a proud tradition of punching above their weight on the international stage.

At Birmingham 2022, a 28-strong team secured two historic medals which was their first in 28 years, underlining the island’s ability to deliver on the big stage.

In Glasgow, they will be represented by 20 athletes across four sports, all aiming to make their mark in their competition kit designed by Kukri, combining high-performance design with the island’s identity on the global stage.

From established medal contenders to athletes chasing their first Commonwealth moment, each team will bring its own story to Glasgow 2026. Kukri is proud to play a part in supporting these journeys, and wish all partner athletes and teams the best of luck in Glasgow.

For Team Canada athlete Nandini Sharma, the road to the Commonwealth Games has been defined by resilience, perseverance and the people who have helped her along the way.

This summer, Sharma, known as one of Canada’s top wheelchair racers, will proudly wear the maple leaf at her second Commonwealth Games – an achievement that seemed unimaginable when she first discovered the sport less than a decade ago.

Her journey began on 15 May 2016 at her very first competition in Ontario. Despite battling rain, snow and hail in true Canadian fashion, Sharma found something that day that would shape her future.

“I fell in love with the sport,” she says. “And now I get to compete at my second Commonwealth Games. That’s crazy.”

Representing Canada on one of sport’s biggest stages is something Sharma doesn’t take for granted. Every training session, every competition and every challenge has led to this opportunity, and she’s determined to make the most of it.

As she prepares to line up against some of the Commonwealth’s best athletes, Sharma hopes all the hard work and sacrifices will come together when it matters most. But regardless of the result, simply earning the chance to compete for Canada again in the Women’s 400m and 1500m T54 events is something she is incredibly proud of.

Behind every athlete is a team of people who help make moments like these possible, and for Sharma, one person stands above all others.

“When I think about everyone who’s had such a massive impact on my career, I think about my friends and family, my coaches and my teammates. But the person who comes to mind most is my coach, Lisa Myers.”

Ahead of her first Commonwealth Games, Sharma’s father passed away suddenly – a devastating loss that left her questioning whether she wanted to compete, or even continue in the sport she loved.

Rather than pushing her towards competition, Myers gave Sharma exactly what she needed: patience, understanding and unwavering support.

“She just encouraged me to come to practice because she knew I loved it. She let me process my grief in the way that I needed to.”

For months, training became about far more than preparing for international competition.

“For about six months after every practice, I cried,” Sharma recalls. “She either cried with me, held me while I cried, or just sat there with me and let me do whatever I needed to do.”

Looking back, Sharma has no doubt about the difference that support made.

“I don’t know if I’d still be in the sport if it wasn’t for her.”

That experience has shaped the athlete she has become and the legacy she hopes to leave beyond competition.

“I hope that one day I can look back and know that I had just as much of an impact on another athlete’s life as she’s had on mine.”

As another Commonwealth Games approaches, Sharma knows success isn’t measured solely by finishing positions. It’s about embracing the opportunity, trusting the work that has gone into reaching this point and representing Canada with pride.

She also has some simple advice for the next generation of athletes.

“Give back as much as you can.”

She still carries with her a mantra from her first coach, Ken Tom, that has guided her throughout her career.

“Plan the work, work the plan.”

It’s a reminder to trust the preparation, believe in the process and have confidence in everything you’ve done before stepping onto the start line.

And as the countdown to the Commonwealth Games continues, there’s one final piece of advice Sharma hasn’t forgotten.

“It’s supposed to be fun,” she says. “So just have some fun.”

When Nandini Sharma steps onto the start line in Team Canada’s colours this summer, she’ll be carrying more than years of training. She’ll be carrying the support of those who helped her through life’s toughest moments, the pride of representing her country once again, and the belief that all the hard work has prepared her to perform on one of the biggest stages in Commonwealth sport.

27/05/202627/05/2026

Kukri Sports has extended its partnership with Crofton House School, continuing a strong relationship that has been built over a number of years.

Located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Crofton House School is one of Canada’s leading independent schools for girls and has been providing student-centred education for more than 125 years. The school is known for helping students thrive both academically and beyond the classroom, with sport playing an important role in school life.

Under the renewed agreement, Kukri will continue to provide bespoke sportswear and training apparel for Crofton House students, athletes and staff, supporting a wide range of sports across the school.

Students at Crofton House take part in a variety of sports including field hockey, volleyball, basketball, rowing, soccer, tennis, athletics and cross country. The school places a strong emphasis on teamwork, resilience and personal development through sport — values that align closely with Kukri’s own approach to supporting athletes at every level.

The extension also reflects Kukri’s continued growth across North America, where the brand works with a growing number of schools, colleges and universities. Crofton House remains an important partner as Kukri continues to expand its presence in the region.

Jamie Williams, Vice President – Kukri Sports North America, said:
“We are incredibly proud to extend our partnership with Crofton House School. Over the years, we’ve built a fantastic relationship with the school and have developed a strong understanding of their needs. Crofton House has an outstanding reputation for nurturing excellence both in the classroom and in sport, and we’re excited to continue supporting their students with high-quality apparel that helps them perform with confidence.”

Tricia Cohee, Athletic Director – Crofton House School, said:

“Kukri has been a great addition to our athletics program.  CHS has been able to access apparel and uniforms that work for all of our teams, supporting both indoor and outdoor activities, for athletes and coaches alike.  Kukri is always quick to respond, and is willing to work with us to suit our needs.  We can count on them to be reliable, kind, and professional – leaving us to focus on other things.  The teams always look great!”

The renewed partnership reflects Kukri Sports’ continued investment in the education sector and its commitment to providing innovative, high-performance apparel solutions to institutions that value sporting excellence.

Learn more about Kukri Sports and its partnerships across North America.

Why choose Kukri Sports

Quality
Performance garments built for heavy use and repeated washing.

Reliability
Guaranteed lead times and consistent fulfilment.

Long-Term Partnership
Stable supply and dedicated account management.

Professional Image
Sportswear that reflects school pride and heritage.

Ease of Management
Online systems that reduce workload.

Sustainability
Responsible materials and ethical production.

GET IN TOUCH

12/05/202612/05/2026

Injury, pressure and perspective – three partner athletes open up on mental health in sport.

Ellie Stevens – British Masters Runner & Brand Ambassador

For Ellie, running has always been more than competition.

“Running felt like freedom in a way nothing else ever did. It became not just a sport, but a form of expression and, over time, a form of therapy for my mind as much as my body.”

Her perspective shifted after illness interrupted her career.

“Being diagnosed with M.E. stripped me back to the basics of who I was,” she recalled. “It taught me that self-worth cannot be tied purely to performance.”

Now, balance is central to her approach.

“Recovery, sleep, nutrition and mental wellbeing are just as important as the workouts themselves.

“Competing now comes from a place of gratitude rather than pressure, which I believe has actually been the key factor that’s allowed me to perform at a higher level.”

For Ellie, resilience is about awareness.

“Real resilience is quiet. It’s about showing up on the hard days – but also knowing when to rest and when to ask for help.”

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Robbie Wingrove – Oshawa Vikings Men’s Captain

For Robbie, rugby provides structure and stability.

“Rugby has always given me purpose, structure and confidence. No matter what challenges life presents, the game has been an anchor that keeps me grounded.”

Like many athletes, injury tested that foundation.

“The toughest challenge came through injury. What got me through it was the support of teammates who pushed me to stay positive and focused.”

Returning to play became a defining moment.

“Winning bronze in the national championship remains one of the proudest moments of my career.

“It reminded me how powerful team support can be.”

He also believes the culture around rugby is improving.

“Real toughness is about being honest, supporting your teammates and creating an environment where everyone feels valued.”

On mental health in sport, he is clear in his message.

“Every player deserves to feel heard and supported and I recommend anyone to speak up – you always have a voice and asking for help is a sign of strength.”

Cam Wood – Oshawa Vikings Women’s Captain

For Cam, rugby is a mental release.

“Rugby has been the perfect outlet for my mental health. When I step on the field everything else melts away.

 “I’ve found some of my closest friends for life through the club and they have helped me to grow into the mentally strong individual I am today.”

She also recognises the challenge of opening up in sport.

“You have to remind yourself that we are all human.

“My biggest support is my older sister. We both understand the toll it can take on not only your body, but also your mind.”

Cam’s message to others this Mental Health Awareness Week is simple.

“Don’t let the fear of speaking up outweigh your need for support. Sharing what you’re going through can give your mind the peace it needs.”

Mental Health Awareness Week highlights the importance of speaking openly and supporting one another in sport and beyond.

Kukri is proud to support athlete wellbeing on and off the field.

01/04/202626/03/2026

For national governing bodies, choosing the right performance sportswear partner is about much more than producing kit.

Organisations need a supplier capable of delivering reliably for athletes competing on the international stage, while also understanding the identity and values of the team they represent.

At Kukri Sports, supporting national teams & organisations means delivering exactly that – combining global capability with local expertise to help teams perform at their best.

A Global Network Supporting National Sport

Kukri operates across multiple regions, with offices in Vancouver, Hong Kong, Dubai, Brisbane, Hamilton, Belfast and the United Kingdom, alongside a network of regional representatives across key sporting markets.

Sales managers operate in regions including Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Chile, Barcelona and Amsterdam, providing local expertise while connecting organisations to Kukri’s wider international network.

This global footprint enables Kukri to support national governing bodies across different continents and time zones, ensuring consistent service and reliable delivery wherever teams are preparing to compete.

How Kukri Supports National Governing Bodies

National governing bodies operate complex programmes involving elite athletes, pathway systems, staff and volunteers. Kukri’s service model is designed specifically to support these programmes.

How can we support you?

– Reliable global supply chains capable of delivering for major international competitions and multi-sport events

– Dedicated account management, providing consistent support and communication throughout the partnership

– Custom apparel design, reflecting the identity, heritage and values of national teams

– Operational scale, allowing governing bodies to outfit large athlete and staff programmes

– Consistent service across time zones, supporting organisations operating internationally

A standout example is our kit design for Team England at the 2022 Commonwealth Games:

Mark Osikoya, CEO at Commonwealth Games England, said “We know how much it means for athletes to wear their team England kit and, as a valued partner, Kukri share our commitment to inclusion, diversity and sustainability.”

Trusted by National Teams Around the World

Kukri’s approach has seen the brand develop partnerships with national sporting organisations across multiple regions.

In the United Kingdom, Kukri partners with organisations including Team England, British Gymnastics, England Athletics, Northern Ireland Volleyball and Netball Northern Ireland.

Across Canada and the Caribbean, Kukri partners with organisations including Commonwealth Games Canada, Bowls Canada and Barbados Olympic Association.

Elsewhere, Kukri works with partners including the Hong Kong Squash Association in Asia and serves as the official off-bike apparel partner for AusCycling in Australia.

These partnerships reflect Kukri’s growing presence within national sport and its experience supporting teams competing on the global stage.

Global Strength, Local Relevance

While Kukri operates internationally, its partnerships are built on local understanding.

By working closely with organisations within their markets and providing dedicated regional support, Kukri ensures governing bodies benefit from the reliability of a global supplier while maintaining the responsiveness and cultural understanding of a local partner.

This combination of global strength and local relevance allows Kukri to support national teams as they prepare athletes for success on the world stage.

Partner with Kukri

With more than two decades of experience, we’ve built a strong reputation for delivering premium teamwear for some of the world’s best athletes.

Are you looking for a partner with global experience and local expertise? Discover how we can support your programme and athletes today.

06/03/2026

Supporting women in sport isn’t just about kit – it’s about creating opportunities, celebrating athletes and breaking barriers.

On International Women’s Day, it’s about representation, confidence and investing in the next generation.

One story that embodies this spirit is UBC Women’s Rugby. As official kit supplier for over a decade, UBC Women’s Rugby continues to set the standard in Western Canada, winning four consecutive Canada West 7s titles, six consecutive Canada West 15s titles, back-to-back U SPORTS national championships, and with six players competing in last year’s Rugby Women’s World Cup.

We spoke with Olivia Sarabura, a key part of UBC’s recent success, about her journey, the growth of women’s rugby and what it means to be a woman in sport today.

“Being a part of the UBC Women’s Rugby program means everything to me. When I first started playing, I could not have imagined the places this sport would take me.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to compete at such a high level, and I hope my journey shows young girls that you don’t have to choose between education and playing the sport you love.”

Now entering her sixth year with the squad, Olivia said rugby has opened doors to both national and international experiences.

“It’s given me so many opportunities to be the best athlete and person that I can be.

“I’ve been able to represent my country playing rugby sevens and play for the best women’s rugby program in the country, something that wouldn’t have been possible a few decades ago.

When it comes to game day and giving her best, wearing Kukri kit is more than just putting on a uniform.

“Our coaches always say that our kit represents so much more than just us. They represent our team, the people who believe in us and the athletes who came before,” she explained.

“When I put on my Kukri kit, I play better because I know that I’m not just playing for myself – but all the people who made it possible for me to put it on and play the sport I love.”

While celebrating progress, Olivia stressed the importance of ongoing investment.

“Women’s rugby in Canada has so much potential. We have talented athletes, coaches and supporters who do a lot of unnoticed work to keep the sport at the highest level possible, but they need more support, funding and research.

“We need to keep elevating women’s rugby and investing in the future of girls and women.”

Olivia also encouraged newcomers to take the leap and get involved.

“I want young girls and women to know they can be strong, intense and aggressive, and find a sport that welcomes that.

“As a teacher in training, I often speak to young girls about rugby because they don’t realize that it is even an option for them.

“That’s why International Women’s Day is so important, it’s a chance to thank the women who paved the way and reflect on what still needs to be done.”

Kukri Sports is proud to stand alongside female athletes like Olivia and the UBC Women’s Rugby team — providing kit, support, and a platform for women to excel in sport and education worldwide.

Why do rugby clubs partner with Kukri?

– Proven long-term partnerships

– Dedicated account management – one point of contact to guide your project from design to delivery

– Fully bespoke sportswear – choose from over 200 designs.

– Flexible ordering options

– eCommerce management – with a dedicated online shop built and managed by Kukri

Join the team:

If you’re looking for a sportswear partner that delivers reliability, accountability and long-term value, get in touch and partner with Kukri today.

24/01/202623/01/2026

As International Day of Education is recognised globally, Kukri Sports continues to play a key role in supporting schools and universities through sport.

For over 25 years, Kukri has built a broad footprint across the education sector, partnering with schools and universities in North America and internationally.

Supplying sportswear across 100+ sports, Kukri supports education providers at every level – from grassroots participation programmes to elite performance environments – helping them deliver consistent, inclusive sporting experiences every academic year.

Supporting schools through sport

Schools require sportswear that is reliable, cost-effective and built to last.

Kukri provides schools with reliable, high-quality sportswear that supports participation and performance.

Our offering includes:

– Multi-sport expertise: Supporting 100+ sports with fully bespoke designs for every team and athlete

– Custom and bespoke options: Full flexibility to create kit that reflects your school’s identity

– Reliable supply: Proven 98% on-time delivery, with lead times as short as 48 hours for stocked items

– Durable, long-lasting kit: Designed to withstand repeated use and maintain consistency through the use of sustainable fabric options

– Dedicated support: Account managers provide guidance, clear communication and help manage growing participation

Debbie Skene, Director of Sport at Rugby School, said “Rugby School has created a functional and inclusive range of sports kit with the help and support of Kukri.

“Students and staff all look and feel part of our sports teams. We take great pride in our ‘nobody on the bench’ approach, and this kit embodies our ‘whole person, whole point’ ethos.

“We are delighted to be associated with Kukri.”

Supporting universities through sport

Kukri works with universities to deliver performance-led sportswear that meets the demands of elite competition, while supporting participation across campus.

Our offering includes:

– Multi-sport expertise: Supporting 100+ sports with fully bespoke designs for every team and athlete

– Custom and bespoke options: Full flexibility to create kit that reflects your university’s identity and team requirements

– Reliable supply: Proven 98% on-time delivery, with lead times as short as 48 hours for stocked items and 3 weeks for bespoke orders

– Managed supply solutions: Streamlined ecommerce and distribution reduce administrative workload

– Dedicated account management: Guidance and support across all aspects of kit provision and campus-wide programmes

– Support beyond kit: Scholarships, hardship funding, and internship opportunities to help students develop on and off the pitch

At Loughborough University alone, Kukri delivered over 23,500 units in 2025 across 50+ sports. This demonstrates our ability to manage large-scale supply while delivering kit that meets performance and identity requirements.

Phillip Cook, Head of Performance Sport at Manchester Metropolitan University, said “Kukri’s commitment through the scholarship has made a real difference to our performance sport programme.

“It has created opportunities for more than 65 talented student-athletes to develop both on and off the field.”

A trusted partner for education

Through long-term partnerships and a clear understanding of the education sector, Kukri continues to support schools and universities in delivering high-quality sporting experiences.

Schools and universities looking for a reliable, long-term education sportswear partner can find out more by visiting the link below.