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BHM: RUGBY SCHOOL TALENT JANE – FROM GYMNASTICS TO NETBALL’S RISING STAR

As Black History Month concludes, Kukri Sports proudly spotlights Jane, a standout student-athlete from Rugby School who is making waves in netball with her inspiring journey and bold aspirations.

From Local Talent to International Hopes

For Jane, netball has been a transformative journey that began with exposure to various sports in her hometown. “Sport has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’d started with gymnastics before I’d even begun school,” Jane reflects.

As she grew older, Jane experimented with different sports, but it was in primary school that a netball coach recognised her potential and encouraged her to join a local club.

“My coach really pushed me to keep going. I started trials for county-level competitions and my first franchise, Loughborough Lightning. I’ve never looked back.”

Now a defender for Birmingham Panthers in their U19s long squad, Jane’s journey from early practice to competitive netball has been one of hard work and triumph. “Netball has always been my happy place. There’s nothing like defending – it’s such a thrill to stop a play and protect my team’s side of the court,” she says.

Aiming For the Future: England U17 Trials and International Ambitions

One of Jane’s proudest moments came this year, when she was selected for the England Netball U17 trials and part of their Europe netball squad. “Getting to that level was such an honour. It felt like all the years of training were finally paying off,” she shares.

With her sights set on the 2032 Olympics in Australia, where netball is expected to debut, Jane dreams of representing her country on the world’s biggest stage and aspires to join Australia’s renowned Suncorp League.

“Playing in the Suncorp League would be amazing. Competing in a different league would challenge me and help me grow as a player. In the short term, Jane is aiming to join a Super League team and become part of the England Future Roses squad.

Honouring Black History Month: Celebrating a Legacy of Strength

For Jane, Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of those who have paved the way. “It’s about celebrating amazing Black people who faced tremendous challenges but still accomplished so much,” she explains.

“Their resilience inspires me, and I hope my story can encourage others to keep pushing forward.”

Kukri Sports’ Commitment to Supporting Young Athletes and Future Champions

Kukri Sports is proud to champion young athletes like Jane, providing high-quality sportswear and resources through partnerships with Rugby School and other leading educational institutions.

Our commitment helps students pursue their sports dreams and reach their full potential, from grassroots to global competitions.

BHM: Annais Kamanga – From Self-Taught Gymnast to International Competitor

As we continue our Black History Month series, today we turn our attention to Annais Kamanga a Welsh international gymnast, whose story highlights the struggles of Covid, leading to her competing on a global stage.

Early Beginnings

At just 7 years old, Annais Kamanga’s journey into the world of gymnastics began like many childhood dreams—watching YouTube videos and practicing in her living room. Her passion for the sport ignited early, starting what would become a lifelong love for the sport.

“I started gymnastics when I was 7 years old,” Annais recalls. “I was watching videos on YouTube and trying to teach myself some of the skills. By 8, I began my elite gymnastics career, and I’ve loved the sport ever since.”

However, like many athletes, Annais faced challenges along the way. The COVID-19 pandemic tested her dedication, making training difficult and shaking her motivation. But with support from her family, teammates, coaches, and the unwavering encouragement of mentors, she pushed through the difficult times.

“I think the main reason I’m where I am today is that I didn’t give up. When COVID hit, training got harder, and I lost motivation. But thanks to the support of my family, teammates, and coaches, I regained my passion for the sport. I couldn’t be prouder of what I’ve achieved.”

Achievements on the International Stage

Annais’s talent and determination have led to significant milestones in her career, with one of her proudest moments being her first international competition for Wales at the Northern European Championships last year.

“This was such an amazing achievement for me,” she shares. “Competing at that international level for Wales made me incredibly proud. I felt so happy in that moment, and I can only hope to build on that in the future.”

Another standout accomplishment came at the Spanish Championships, where she and her team secured a bronze medal. “Helping the team win that bronze was a very happy moment for all of us. I couldn’t be prouder of the girls.”

As the official partner of Welsh Gymnastics, Kukri Sports has proudly supported athletes like Annais in their journey to represent Wales on international stages, ensuring they have the high-performance apparel needed to excel.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future in Gymnastics

With her sights set firmly on the future, Annais is driven by her ambition to continue competing on the international stage.

“I hope to compete in more international competitions for Wales and, hopefully, for Great Britain in the future. The next Commonwealth Games would be an incredible opportunity for me, and I’m working hard to make that dream a reality.”

The Importance of Black History Month

For Annais, Black History Month holds deep significance. It’s a time to celebrate the achievements of Black individuals and provide inspiration for the next generation of athletes.

“Black History Month is an opportunity to spotlight and celebrate the achievements of Black individuals. It’s very important to me because it gives me a chance to support other Black athletes, especially those younger than me who might look up to me.”

As Annais Kamanga continues her gymnastics journey, she is not only making her mark in the sport but also inspiring others through her story of perseverance, ambition, and pride in her heritage. And with the backing of Kukri Sports, Welsh Gymnastics’ official partner, her future looks brighter than ever.

BHM: Hal Dwobeng – From Trafford to the World Stage

For Hal Dwobeng, Lacrosse has been a life-defining journey that began at a local school in Trafford, Manchester. “I first started lacrosse in primary school, around 10 years old. In Trafford, the borough of Manchester where I grew up, Pop Lacrosse—a non-contact version of the sport—was a big part of school life,” Hal recalls. That early exposure to the game led to a local tournament that would set the course of his future. Encouraged by teachers and peers, he joined Brooklands Lacrosse Club to explore full-contact lacrosse, and from that point on, there was no looking back.

Rising through the junior ranks, Hal continued to play as he moved on to the University of Nottingham. After university, a career relocation brought him to London, where he now proudly plays for Spencer Lacrosse Club, still fuelled by the passion that started in those school tournaments.

A Proud Legacy on the International Stage with Kukri Sports as a Key Partner

With years of dedication, training, and talent, Hal has achieved a rare and coveted honour—representing both England in Field Lacrosse and Great Britain in the fast-paced 6s format. Competing on the international stage at major world championships in Netanya, Israel (2018), Birmingham, Alabama (2022), and San Diego (2023), he describes the experience as surreal. “It is always an honour to suit up for your country,” he says, “and being fortunate enough to do so in world championships is amazing.”

Backing Hal and many others on their journey is Kukri Sports, the official partner of England Lacrosse. Kukri plays an essential role in supporting the national team and providing athletes with high-quality sportswear that enables them to perform at their peak.

Setting Sights on LA28 and Beyond

As lacrosse prepares to make its debut in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, new doors open for the sport—and for Hal’s future. “In terms of goals, I try to focus on making the best version of myself available for selection for my club and country, but with the Olympics on the horizon, it’s hard to keep that out of sight. The main goal for now is contributing to the team’s qualification journey for LA28. If British Lacrosse can get there, I’ll set my sights on competing, but just being part of the journey would make me incredibly proud.”

Celebrating Black History Month and Making an Impact

For Hal, Black History Month is a time to honour the achievements of Black sportsmen and women. But he also recognizes its broader importance: “It’s a chance to remember Black achievements and contributions beyond just sport.”In lacrosse, where Black athletes remain underrepresented, he is committed to making a difference. “I’m proud to be one of the few Black internationals for England and Great Britain. If I could inspire others who look like me to get involved in the sport, that would be an achievement in itself.”

Supported by Kukri Sports, Hal’s story of determination, resilience, and passion for lacrosse is one of inspiring others and breaking barriers. With an eye on the Olympics and a commitment to inclusivity, he’s proving that dreams started in local communities can reach global stages.

Kukri Sports Unveils New Range of High-Performance Athletic Apparel

At Kukri Sports, our unwavering commitment to listening to athletes and customers has once again guided us to expand our product line. As we continue to emphasise the power of customer feedback, we are thrilled to introduce our latest range of athletic wear, designed to meet the high standards of performance, comfort, and functionality that athletes worldwide have come to expect from us. This new collection not only represents the culmination of our collaborative efforts with athletes but also our dedication to innovation, inclusivity, and versatility in sportswear.

Innovation and Performance at the Core

Understanding the demands of modern athletes, our new collection includes state-of-the-art apparel that enhances performance across various sports disciplines. The Athletics Sprint Shorts, Athletics Knee Length Sprint Shorts, and Athletics Split Running Shorts promote freedom of movement. These products have been meticulously crafted to help sprinters and runners reach their peak performance without compromising on comfort.

For more specialised requirements, the Athletics Briefs, Athletics Capped Sleeve Crop Top, and Athletics Running Tight are designed to offer optimal support and flexibility. These garments have been tested rigorously with feedback from elite athletes, ensuring that they not only fit perfectly but also endure the physical demands of intense training and competition.

Elite Sportswear for Elite Athletes

Building on our heritage of excellence, the introduction of the Elite Running Vest and Elite Running T-Shirt. These pieces are engineered with cutting-edge materials that ensure breathability, durability, and a lightweight feel—everything a runner needs to perform at their best. Our collaboration with leading sports scientists and elite athletes has helped refine these products, making them suitable for both casual runners and those competing at the highest levels.

Multisport and Lifestyle Apparel

Recognising the need for versatile clothing that can transition from one sport to another, our new line includes the Workout Vest, Multisport Skort, and Multisport Skirt. These items are crafted to provide comfort and flexibility, making them ideal for various athletic activities.

Inclusive Designs for Women and Diverse Athletes

Kukri Sports continues to champion inclusivity with products like the Women’s Impact Leggings. These garments are tailored to meet the specific needs of female athletes, offering enhanced fit, comfort, and style.

A Commitment to Continuous Improvement

At Kukri Sports, the launch of our new product range is more than just introducing new items; it’s about reaffirming our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Every product has been designed with input from athletes and sports organisations, from grassroots teams to national governing bodies, ensuring that our apparel is of the highest quality. By continuously incorporating feedback, we strive to exceed the expectations of athletes who rely on our gear.

Empowering Athletes Worldwide

With this new collection, Kukri Sports continues to empower athletes to perform at their best, whether on the track, in the gym, or on the field. We are proud to be a part of every athlete’s journey, offering products that combine innovation, style, and practicality.

The power of customer feedback remains the heartbeat of Kukri Sports, driving us forward as we innovate and expand our offerings to meet the ever-evolving demands of the athletic community.

Contact us to find out more about our product range

Kukri Sports: Driving Innovation in Hockey Worldwide

Kukri Sports is making waves in the world of hockey, establishing itself as a leading provider of high-quality performance sportswear designed to meet the unique demands of the sport.

With a dedication to quality and innovation, Kukri is becoming the go-to choice for hockey teams and athletes worldwide, helping to enhance their performance on and off the field.

Building a global Hockey community

Kukri’s influence in the hockey community continues to expand, forging strong connections with grassroots clubs and educational institutions around the world.

Partnerships with established grassroots clubs like Pegasus Hockey Club, Provincial Sporting Bodies such as Field Hockey BC, and university teams like Loughborough University and Melbourne University Hockey Club highlight our ability to deliver bespoke sportswear solutions tailored to each team’s specific needs.

Find out more about our partners

A standout example of Kukri’s commitment to the sport is its long-standing partnership with Pegasus Hockey Club, a grassroots team based in Northern Ireland.

As their teamwear supplier for over 20 years, Kukri has played a fundamental role in their success, providing over 5,000 custom-designed kits crafted for peak performance and inspiring players to reach their full potential.

Read more about the partnership.

Expanding Hockey’s reach in Australia & beyond

Kukri has established a strong presence in Australia, a country where hockey is deeply ingrained in the sporting culture.

The brand proudly partners with numerous organisations across the continent, including Cairns Hockey Association, Melbourne High School Old Boys Hockey Club, La Trobe University Hockey Club, Melbourne University Hockey Club and Kedron Wavell Hockey club.

Across the Pacific Ocean, Kukri continues to develop its presence in North America, with partners such as Vancouver Hawks Field Hockey Club and Field Hockey BC.

Fostering grassroots development

In addition to its partnership with Pegasus Hockey Club, Kukri’s strategy is deeply rooted in a commitment to grassroots development.

By supplying schools, clubs and universities with innovative sportswear, Kukri nurtures the next generation of players. The company collaborates with educational institutions including; Nottingham Trent University, Rugby School and Royal School Armagh, with the latter being crowned last season’s Kate Russell All-Ireland Senior Schoolgirls’ title to cap off a dream season.

Dedication to quality & innovation

Kukri’s approach to hockey is grounded in a pursuit of quality and innovation. Each piece of sportswear is meticulously designed to withstand the rigors of the game, utilising advanced materials that enhance comfort, durability and performance.

Kukri offers a wide range of customizable kits that blend design with functionality, ensuring players can perform confidently at every level.

Design your custom Hockey kit

Elevate your team’s performance with Kukri’s bespoke hockey kits, choose from hundreds of designs and get started today.

Design your hockey kit

Dynamic Sports: Innovating Performance on the Sand

Beach volleyball is an exhilarating and fast-paced sport, known for its blend of athleticism, agility, and strategy, played on sandy courts worldwide. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, Kukri Sports is proud to be at the forefront, providing bespoke, high-performance sportswear that meets the demands of this unique game.

Our mission is to enhance the experience of athletes and fans, offering tailored apparel that supports peak performance, comfort, and durability. Kukri Sports is dedicated to empowering athletes at all levels, helping them perform at their best in every competition.

Why Choose Beach Volleyball?

Fitness and Agility: Beach volleyball offers an excellent full-body workout, building strength, cardiovascular fitness, and balance on the challenging sand surface.

Outdoor Adventure: The sport thrives in outdoor environments, combining sun, sand, and the thrill of competition for a unique athletic experience.

Teamwork and Strategy: Success in beach volleyball relies on communication, collaboration, and quick thinking between teammates, fostering a strong bond of camaraderie.

How to Get Started with Beach Volleyball

  1. Learn the Rules: Understanding key elements like serving, passing, setting, and spiking is essential. Many online resources and clinics offer introductory lessons for beginners.
  2. Invest in Proper Gear: Beach volleyball requires minimal equipment—a good-quality volleyball, a net, and appropriate sportswear designed for sand play.
  3. Join a Local League or Team: Look for local courts or beach volleyball leagues to find a community of players and opportunities to participate in games and tournaments.
  4. Train Regularly: Like any sport, consistent practice helps refine skills and build the stamina needed to succeed on the sand.

Kukri Sports’ Role in Supporting Beach Volleyball

Kukri Sports is committed to providing world-class sportswear for beach volleyball athletes. Our custom designs ensure that athletes are equipped with breathable, lightweight fabrics that enhance mobility and performance on the sand. We understand the unique demands of this sport, and our collaboration with elite athletes allows us to continuously refine and innovate our products, ensuring durability and comfort in every match.

From high-performance jerseys and shorts to tailored training gear, Kukri Sports empowers athletes to perform their best, whether competing on the international stage or training at the grassroots level.

Kukri Sports’ Official Ambassadors: The Bello Brothers

At Kukri Sports, we are proud to have the Bello Brothers as our official ambassadors for beach volleyball. Joaquín and Javier Bello are not only trailblazers in British beach volleyball, but they also represent the values of dedication, teamwork, and excellence that we champion. As rising stars on the international stage, their passion for the sport and commitment to growth make them perfect representatives of our brand. We collaborate closely with them to create high-performance, sport-specific gear tailored to the unique demands of beach volleyball.

Find out more about our Ambassadors

Conclusion

Beach volleyball is more than just a sport—it’s a test of endurance, skill, and teamwork in a fun, sun-filled environment. With Kukri Sports’ unwavering support and dedication to high-quality sportswear, the future of beach volleyball looks brighter than ever. Whether you’re an experienced player or just beginning your journey, now is the perfect time to get involved in the exciting world of beach volleyball.

For more information on how Kukri Sports supports beach volleyball and other sports, visit our website and discover how we can help elevate your game.

BHM: Charity Williams – From Childhood Dream to Olympic Medalist

As we continue our Black History Month series, today, we turn our focus to Charity, an Olympic rugby player whose inspiring story showcases not only her athletic excellence but also her commitment to creating space for future Black athletes.

Early Inspiration

For Charity, her Olympic dream began at 8 years old while watching the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Mesmerised by the performances of the athletes on her TV screen, she made a vow that she would one day become an Olympian. “At the time, I was a gymnast,” she recalls, “but as I got older, it became clear that being an Olympic gymnast wasn’t in the cards for me. So, I knew I had to pivot.”

That turning point came when Charity was in Grade 10. She had already been trying out various sports, but it wasn’t until a teammate from her wrestling team encouraged her to attend a rugby practice that everything clicked. “From the first day I stepped onto that rugby field, I fell in love,” Charity says. “It felt like all of my dreams were coming together.”

Finding Rugby and Rapid Rise

Charity’s passion for rugby grew quickly, and it didn’t take long for her talent to be recognised. After two years of playing high school rugby, and a standout season with Team Ontario, she was selected by Team Canada in 2013. This opportunity required her to move to Victoria to train with the national team—an opportunity she embraced fully, even completing her final year of high school there.

“Moving to Victoria at that age was daunting,” she admits, “but I knew it was the next step toward fulfilling my Olympic dream.”

Olympic Journey and Achievements

One of Charity’s proudest moments came in 2016 when, at just 19 years old, she was named to Team Canada’s rugby squad for the Rio Olympics. “I was the youngest player to make the squad, and when I found out, I cried through the entire meeting,” Charity reflects. “It wasn’t just about going to the Olympics—it was the realiation that my younger self, who once sat in front of the TV watching those incredible athletes, was now becoming one of them.”

At the Rio Olympics, Charity and her team went on to win the bronze medal. Yet for her, the most special part of that journey wasn’t the medal itself—it was the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and a dream that never wavered.

Her Olympic story didn’t end in Rio. In 2024, Charity was part of the Team Canada squad that earned a silver medal at the Paris Olympics. “Winning silver was amazing, but it wasn’t just about the medal,” she explains. “It was about what we accomplished as a team. The challenges we faced and overcame together over the past three years made that achievement so meaningful. We inspired each other every day, and I think that was felt by everyone who watched and supported us.”

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Charity remains committed to her sport and to inspiring the next generation of rugby players. Currently, she plays for another of Kukri’s official partners; the University of British Columbia (UBC) and has her sights set on winning a national championship with her team. “Right now, I’m focused on enjoying my time at UBC, connecting with the team, and having a blast,” she says. “Of course, I’m also hoping for another Olympic run in the future!”

Beyond her personal goals, Charity is passionate about creating a more inclusive and diverse rugby environment for future athletes.

Reflections on Black History Month

For Charity, Black History Month is a significant time to reflect, learn, and listen. “For me, and for people who look like me, Black History Month is every month because I am who I am 365 days a year,” she says.

Rugby in Canada has made strides in diversity and inclusivity, but Charity is quick to point out that more work needs to be done. She reflects on her experience as the only Black player selected to Canada’s rugby squad at the 2016 Olympics. “I felt a huge responsibility to be a role model for young Black kids across the country. It wasn’t that there was a lack of talented Black athletes—there was a lack of safe spaces and opportunities for them to thrive,” she explains.

Fast forward to Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024, and Charity saw firsthand how the national team had evolved. “By the time we reached Tokyo and Paris, we had a much more diverse squad, and it made all the difference. Everyone felt seen, heard, and valued. That’s the rugby I want to see going forward.”

Championing Inclusivity in Rugby

As Charity looks to the future, she hopes to continue being a voice for change within rugby. “Rugby is such a beautiful sport, and the opportunities it offers are endless. But everyone deserves access to those opportunities,” she says. “We need to keep pushing for a sport that is inclusive, diverse, and safe for all athletes, regardless of their background.”

With her Olympic medals, inspiring journey, and vision for the future, Charity remains a trailblazer both on and off the field—a powerful example of resilience, passion, and the importance of representation.

Kukri Sports and Partner Athletes Unite for World Mental Health Day

In recognition of World Mental Health Day, Kukri Sports is standing together with its partner athletes to raise awareness about the importance of mental health in sports.

Athletes from British Fencing, England Lacrosse, Loughborough Lightning & Somerset County Cricket Club have shared their personal stories and advice on how they maintain mental well-being, showing that mental health is just as important as physical fitness in achieving athletic success.

Observed annually on 10 October, World Mental Health Day aims to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote support for those affected by mental health challenges.

Kukri Sports plays a vital role in helping athletes feel comfortable and confident, both on and off the field. By providing high-quality, inclusive teamwear, Kukri ensures athletes can focus on their performance while feeling supported by their sportswear.

Athletes Reflections:

Will Smeed (Somerset County Cricket Club) emphasizes connection:

“To prioritise my mental health whilst playing professional sport, I make sure to stay connected with my friends and family. This helps me stay level throughout the inevitable highs and lows of sport.

“Being mentally healthy is just as important as physical health when it comes to being able to perform on the pitch.”

Hal Dwobeng (England Lacrosse) highlights balance:

“I’d say making sure I remember to have fun when playing lacrosse, even if it’s something like an international event and regardless of result. As an amateur athlete, it’s important to use the sport as a good life balance from work.

Julie Wise & Freya Moody (England Lacrosse) stresses rest and outdoor activities:

“Resting when you need to! Appreciate the small things.

“I like to spend time outside, either by going outside for a walk or run with my mates to clear my head, which will help me to perform my best on the pitch.”

Kieran Molloy (boxing ambassador) addresses loneliness:

“It can be very lonely as a professional athlete at times. Full-time training away from family and friends, but I always remember why I’m doing this. It’s important to have a reason for why you’re doing something.

“Keeping a small, trustworthy group around you is so important.”

Piers Gilliver (British Fencing) shares insights on pressure:

“Being an athlete comes with high pressure and mental challenges. It’s crucial to take mental health seriously in sport.”

Bella Baylis (Loughborough Lightning) emphasizes the strength in asking for help:

“I’ve come to realise that my mental health is just as important as my physical health. I used to believe that asking for help when I was struggling was a sign of weakness. But that couldn’t be further from the truth; it’s a sign of strength and takes real courage to open up.

“Whether that’s talking to a teammate, coach, family member, or professional, being able to prioritise your mental wellness is vital to make sure you can perform at your best both on and off the court.”

Javier & Joaquin Bello (Beach Volleyball ambassadors) emphasise daily check-ins:

“Mental health is a key part of how we approach our performance. We make it a habit to check in on each other every day, whether it’s reflecting on how we’re feeling after training and matches, or just making sure we show support to each other.”

Kukri is committed to providing athletes with comfortable and inclusive sportswear that helps them feel confident and supported on the field. By promoting mental health awareness and sharing athlete insights, Kukri aims to contribute to a more supportive and understanding environment for athletes of all levels.

For more information on how we can help you with your sportswear needs, get in touch.

If you need mental health support, reach out to your primary healthcare provider for guidance. You can also call Samaritans on 116 123 or click here to view the full list.

KUKRI SPORTS CELEBRATES 35 MEDALS WON BY AFFILIATED ATHLETES AT PARALYMPIC GAMES

After the conclusion of this year’s Paralympic Games, Kukri Sports are proud to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of its affiliated athletes, who played a pivotal role in Team GB’s success.

This year’s games saw 11 days of exceptional talent and determination on the world’s biggest stage, with Team GB finishing second in the overall medal table with a total of 124 medals.

25 Kukri-affiliated athletes, who also represent key partners such as England Athletics, British Wheelchair Basketball, British Fencing and Loughborough University, showcased remarkable performances.

Collectively, they won an impressive total of 35 medals, including 15 golds, 12 silvers and 8 bronzes.

Dimitri Coutya Shines

British Fencing’s Dimitri Coutya delivered remarkable performances, securing his first paralympic wheelchair fencing gold medal in the men’s foil B category.

As the current world number one, Coutya didn’t stop there, going on to claim a second gold in the men’s individual epee B final. His incredible run culminated with a silver and bronze, finishing the games with four medals across all events and cementing his position as one of the standout athletes at this year’s games.

His teammate, Piers Gilliver, also impressed to win silver in the men’s Sabre A, helping Team GB to finish second in the wheelchair fencing table.

England Athletics’ impressive medal haul

Kukri’s long-standing partner, England Athletics, won eight medals. Headlining the achievements was Hannah Cockroft, who successfully defended her women’s T34 100m for the third time.

Kate Adenegan continued her impressive Paralympic career, winning two silver medals in the 100m and 800m T34 events, bringing her total to seven Paralympic medals, having won silver in every race since Rio 2016.

Dan Pembroke delivered one of the most stunning performances of the games, smashing the world record in the Javelin F35 event with an outstanding throw of 74.49 metres.

His remarkable performance saw him retain his title, reaffirming his dominance on the world’s biggest stage.

Bo Kramer leads Netherlands to glory & GB Men make history

Loughborough Lightning star Bo Kramer delivered a standout performance in the Wheelchair Basketball final, helping the Netherlands successfully defend their Paralympic crown.

As the team’s top scorer, Kramer led her team to a thrilling 63-49 victory against America.

Meanwhile, GB Men’s Wheelchair Basketball team, under the governance of Kukri partner British Wheelchair Basketball, made history by securing their first silver medal in 28 years, marking a major achievement for the sport.

The GB Women’s team also delivered strong performances, finishing fifth overall, showing their growing competitiveness on the world stage.

Loughborough University athletes impress

Loughborough University-linked athletes once again demonstrated their versatility and sporting prowess across multiple sports, securing 19 medals and bringing their combined tally to 35 medals across both games.

Standout performers included Tully Kearney, who claimed two golds in the 100m and 200m Freestyle S5 events. Brent Lakatos added to his medal haul with a gold medal in the Men’s 800m t53 and a silver in the Men’s 400m T35 wheelchair racing events.

Meanwhile, Dave Ellis and his guide Luke Pollard dominated the paratriathlon, winning gold in the Men’s PTVI event.

Commenting on the outstanding successes from athletes linked to Kukri across the Paralympics, Andy Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports, said “We are very proud of the incredible achievements of our affiliated athletes at this year’s Paralympic Games.

“Their dedication, talent, and perseverance has been inspiring, and it’s a privilege to witness them reach new heights on the global stage.

“At Kukri, we are committed to providing the highest level of innovative sportswear for our partners to help these athletes shine on their journeys and achieve optimum performance. Their success motivates us to continue developing cutting-edge apparel that empowers athletes to push more boundaries and achieve greatness.”

Paralympic games medallists affiliated with Kukri Sports:

  • Ali Smith – Loughborough University (Silver, Athletics – Mixed 4 x 100 metres relay)
  • Anna Nicholson – England Athletics (Gold, Athletics – Shot put F35 event)
  • Bo Kramer – Loughborough University (Gold, Wheelchair Basketball)
  • Brent Lakatos – Loughborough University (Gold & Silver, Wheelchair event – Men’s 800m T53 & Men’s 400m T53)
  • Claire Cashmore – Loughborough University (Silver, Paratriathlon – Women’s PTS5)
  • Dan Pembroke – England Athletics (Gold, Athletics – Javelin F35 event)
  • Dave Ellis – Loughborough University (Gold, Paratriathlon – Men’s PTVI)
  • Didi Okoh – England Athletics & Loughborough University (Bronze, Athletics – 100m T63 event)
  • Dimitri Coutya – British Fencing (Gold x2, Silver x1 & Bronze x1, Wheelchair Fencing)
  • Hannah Cockroft – England Athletics (Gold x2, Athletics – 100m T34 & 800m T34)
  • Hannah Moore – Loughborough University (Bronze, Paratriathlon – Women’s PTS4)
  • Hollie Arnold – Loughborough University (Bronze, Athletics – Women’s javelin F46)
  • Jenny Holl – Loughborough Lightning (Gold & Silver, Track Cycling)
  • Jonnie Peacock – Loughborough University (Silver, Athletics – Mixed 4 x 100 metres relay)
  • Kare Adenegan – England Athletics (Silver x2, Athletics – 100m T34 & 800m T34)
  • Kadeena Cox – Man Met University Alumnus (Gold, Cycling – Mixed team sprint C1-5)
  • Luke Pollard – Loughborough University (Gold, Paratriathlon – Men’s PTVI)
  • Mark Swan – Loughborough University (Silver, Powerlifting – Men’s up to 65kg)
  • Ollie Liam-Watson – British Fencing (Silver & Bronze, Wheelchair Fencing)
  • Olivia Broome – Loughborough University (Bronze, Powerlifting – Women’s up to 50kg)
  • Piers Gilliver – British Fencing (Silver & Bronze, Wheelchair Fencing)
  • Rebecca Redfern – University of Worcester (Gold, Swimming – Women’s 100m Breaststroke SB13)
  • Tully Kearney – Loughborough University-based & Man Met Alumnus (Gold x2, Swimming – 100m freestyle S5 & 200m freestyle S5)
  • Zac Shaw – England Athletics & Loughborough University (Bronze, Athletics – 100m T12)
  • Zoe Newson – Loughborough University (Silver, Powerlifting – Women’s up to 45kg)

Kukri remains dedicated to creating high-quality, bespoke sportswear that empowers athletes to excel.

Contact us to learn how we can support you in achieving greatness in your sport.