Category: News

30/05/202528/05/2025

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 World Championship 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.

Find out more about Team England

26/05/202523/05/2025

Kukri Sports is proud to announce its support for the ’26 Mountains to Mayo’ Challenge, a powerful initiative aiming to raise over £1 million for Cancer Fund for Children –  ensuring that no child in Ireland faces cancer alone.

A gruelling journey with a powerful purpose

The gruelling nine-day challenge, developed by Roger Johnston, will see a team of 26 business leaders from Ireland and the USA, including former Ulster Rugby player Declan Fitzpatrick, climb the highest point in every county across Ireland.

Starting with Errigal in Donegal on Saturday 7 June, the group will journey through Ulster, Connacht, Leinster and Munster, before finishing at Mweelrea in Mayo on Saturday 15 June.

Kukri’s support

As part of its ongoing commitment to support meaningful causes, Kukri is providing bespoke, high-performance training-wear including t-shirts and jackets to support the participants.

“I am truly excited and thankful for the partnership between our 26 Mountains to Mayo team and Kukri,” said challenge founder Roger Johnston.

“The t-shirts and jackets have really added to the shared identity of our team of 25 business leaders who are taking part in the challenge, and we will wear them proudly during our training and during the challenge.

“One of my key aims when setting up this challenge was to mobilise business across Northern Ireland to get behind the Cancer Fund for Children and their critical mission to ensure that no child in Ireland needs to go through the disease alone.

“Kukri have truly stepped up to this call, and for that we are very thankful.”

Neil Patterson, Kukri Sports Country Manager for Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, expressed his pride in supporting such a vital mission.

“At Kukri, we believe in the power of sport to unite, inspire, and drive meaningful change.

“We’re honoured to support this challenge with high-performance kit that reflects the team’s commitment and determination.

“This isn’t just a physical challenge – it’s a powerful statement of solidarity with children and families facing cancer. We’re proud to stand with Roger and his incredible team in support of this vital cause.”

Participants have already begun rigorous training for what promises to be a once in a lifetime experience.

A challenge that resonates with many

Wayne Pollock, one of the volunteers shared:

“The challenge to me is very personal. I lost my mum to breast cancer when I was 21 years of age.

“Having my own child after that, we have been involved with Cancer Fund for Children for some time now,” he said.

“It’s an outstanding challenge with an amazing team and support around us. It’s really extreme, but we’re determined to raise an incredible amount to make sure that no kid in Ireland has to face cancer alone.”

Fellow volunteer, Graeme Neil, added:

“Being involved in the challenge is probably one of the most important things I have done in my life.

“It’s very humbling and gratifying to know that we’re helping children not to face cancer alone and also help provide support to their families.

“Like everybody else, I’m really excited and nervous, but the motivation for me and the group will be the difference we can hopefully make to people’s lives.”

How you can support

The ‘26 Mountains to Mayo’ Challenge is more than just a physical feat – it’s a movement to ensure that no child in Ireland has to face cancer alone. Every step the team takes is in support of children and families who urgently need help and hope.

To learn more about the challenge, please visit: www.26m2m.com/home

Join Kukri and the 26M2M team in making a real difference – every donation, big or small, brings us one  step closer to the £1 million goal. CLICK HERE to donate.

18/05/202517/05/2025

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.

23/04/2025

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.

Find out more about Team England

08/03/202507/03/2025

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.

24/02/202520/02/2025

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

Learn more about Run Together

21/02/202523/04/2025

Kukri Sports is excited to announce a new partnership with British Rowing, the national governing body for rowing in the UK. This collaboration marks an exciting chapter as both organisations join forces to enhance the British rowing community through high-performance, sustainable sportswear, designed specifically to support rowers from the grassroots level to elite competitions.

As British Rowing’s official sportswear partner, Kukri Sports will supply custom-designed performance apparel and merchandise to rowers, clubs, and events nationwide. This partnership will focus on delivering innovative, high-quality apparel that meets the unique demands of rowing, helping British Rowing promote inclusivity and excellence throughout the sport.

“We are honoured to partner with British Rowing,” said Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO – Kukri Sports “At Kukri Sports, we recognise the importance of specialized sportswear for athletes’ performance and success. This partnership is an incredible opportunity for us to work closely with British Rowing to create products that truly meet the needs of rowers at every level, whether they’re training, competing, or celebrating their love for the sport.”

Through this partnership, Kukri Sports will provide branded merchandise and gear at British Rowing’s major events, including the British Rowing Championships and British Rowing Masters Championships. By delivering high-quality apparel to athletes, fans, and supporters, the partnership aims to strengthen community engagement and raise awareness for rowing across the UK.

“We are delighted to be partnering once again with Kukri. This new partnership will bring the very best of performance apparel to our GB rowing team athletes, club rowers, volunteers and staff on and off the water. With co created on water wear we hope this partnership will help take our performance to the next level across the whole sport.” Alastair Marks, CEO British Rowing

The new partnership between Kukri Sports and British Rowing is set to elevate the sport of rowing in the UK, providing rowers, clubs, and fans with the support and apparel they need to succeed. Together, they aim to empower athletes and grow the sport of rowing at all levels.

About British Rowing:
British Rowing is the national governing body for rowing in the UK, dedicated to fostering the growth and success of the sport across the country. With a mission to support participation and international achievement, British Rowing serves a vibrant network of rowers, clubs, and events from the grassroots to elite levels. For more information, visit www.britishrowing.org.

30/01/202529/01/2025

As specialists in bespoke sportswear, Kukri Sports are dedicated to delivering market-leading apparel to athletes of all levels, including many top sporting universities.

Our support extends beyond sportswear, as we recognise the challenges faced by students. By collaborating closely with our university partners, we provide a range of additional support tailored to their needs.

Scholarship Programs

Kukri Sports are proud to support students at our partner universities through scholarships. These awards provide financial assistance to help cover educational costs and are designed to recognise and reward talent, dedication, and potential. By supporting students academically and athletically, we aim to help them achieve their goals and thrive during their university journey.

This program has been (or are currently being) rolled out at the University of Exeter and the University r Worcester

“With the support of Kukri we are able to provide sports scholars within our performance programme with financial assistance to support their international sport expenses, such as accommodation and travel for international level competition.” Paul Kirby, Senior Operations Manager, University of Exeter – Sport

“The financial support afforded by Kukri, in addition to funds and holistic support provided by the University of Worcester, can foster their overall athletic and career progression, allowing students to achieve success both on and off the field.” Charlotte Beaman-Evans, UW Sport Performance and Scholarship lead, on behalf of University of Worcester

Hardship Funds

Kukri understand the challenges students may face during their university journey. That’s why we’re also proud to support hardship funds at some of our partner universities. These funds provide financial assistance to students experiencing unexpected difficulties, helping them stay focused on their studies and athletic commitments without added financial stress.

This fund has recently been offered to Plymouth Marjon University who are in the process of distributing the funding out to the students who need it most.

“Working with Kukri for the last few years has gone beyond providing sport clothing to our students and staff.

Finances continue to be a challenge for all students and the hardship fund has allowed us to support students by providing sport clothing for their academic course or sport teamwear and reduce the outgoings of our students for those that need it the most.

We could not do this without the support of Kukri and it is one of many reasons why we are so pleased to be working together and look forward to the development of our partnership”. Laurence Gully – Director of Sport, Physical Education and Commercial Servies at Plymouth Marjon University.

Internships

There is also a commitment to helping university students gain valuable real-world experience. These opportunities allow students to develop practical skills, enhance their knowledge, and build a strong foundation for their future careers, all while being supported in a dynamic and professional environment.

This opportunity has already been rolled out at a couple of our universities, Loughborough University and Nottingham Trent University, with the latest Intern due to start in the spring.

“These opportunities allow students to develop practical skills, gain real-world experience, and enhance their employability. Work-based learning also boosts motivation and engagement while enabling students to build valuable professional networks.

This process is successful only when we collaborate with partners who share our vision for workplace learning.

Our partnership with Kukri has exemplified this vision, offering our students a holistic experience of working within the industry. By gaining valuable insights into the company as a whole and developing skills relevant to various departments, our students have benefited greatly from this collaboration.” Valerie Dennehy, School of Sport, Exercise & Health Sciences Placements Director & University Teacher in Sport & Exercise Psychology

Work Experience

Kukri Sports are dedicated to supporting students at our partner universities by offering work experience opportunities. These placements provide students with hands-on industry insights, practical skills, and a chance to explore potential career paths, helping them build confidence and prepare for life after graduation.

Recent interns have included Ahmed Ahmed and Ranée James who both felt the benefits of having real-work experience to add to their CVs when entering the job market, post university.

“The best part of this internship was taking what I’ve learned in my university classes and applying it in the real world. The hands-on experience has been invaluable, and it’s made me more excited than ever to pursue a career in sports marketing,” Ahmed Ahmed.

Kukri Sports is proud to go beyond providing bespoke sportswear by actively supporting university students in multiple facets of their journey.

Through scholarships, hardship funds, internships, and work experience opportunities, we aim to make a meaningful impact on students’ lives, both on and off the field.

By working closely with our partner universities, we ensure that this support is tailored to address their unique challenges and goals. Together, we’re not just shaping the future of sportswear but also empowering the next generation of athletes, professionals, and leaders. Are you looking for a new sportswear partner? – GET IN TOUCH

27/01/202523/01/2025

Leading athletes across the UK are embracing the challenge of training in colder, darker conditions.

Kukri Sports understands these demands and is committed to fuelling athletes with performance-driven sportswear designed to keep them focused and prepared, no matter the weather.

Whether you are just starting out on your fitness journey or need more motivation during this time of year, we have got you covered.

Top Tips for Winter Training

To help you stay motivated and perform at your best this winter, here are some top tips for tackling this season’s challenges:

• Layer-up appropriately: Kukri’s lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics keep athletes warm without restricting movement. Our products will help to regulate your body temperature without compromising performance.
• Stay consistent: Maintaining a regular routine, even in the cold, helps athletes stay on track and build resilience.
• Train with purpose: Setting clear goals of what you want to achieve and focusing on specific improvements makes every session meaningful.
• Train with others: Training with teammates is a powerful way to stay motivated and get the most out of a session.
• Celebrate your efforts: Winter training can be tough, but every session brings you closer to your goal. Acknowledge your progress and remember that consistency beats perfection.

Insight from Partner Athletes

We have teamed up with some partner athletes to share their insights on winter training and how they adapt to challenging conditions.

England Lacrosse senior women’s team player, Araminta Loxton-Bernard, highlights the importance of safety and preparation.

“During sessions where it’s cold and dark, having the knowledge that I am visible to cars and bikes, can hear what’s going on around me and don’t have any chance of slipping allows me to train to the fullest and accelerate toward my goals.”

“Post training it is vital to layer back up quickly to keep yourself warm, and Kukri’s endless supply of different warmer options is so important. The tactical jacket or gilet really help my body to regulate its temperature and prevent rapid heat loss.”

England Lacrosse senior men’s team player, Tom Bracegirdle, said “It’s important to take a little extra time to prepare. Warming up thoroughly with dynamic stretching and gradually increasing intensity will help get the blood flowing and prevent injuries.

“Kukri provides a great mix of training gear that allows you to layer up effectively—better to have too many layers and take one off than not enough and feel the cold!“

Chris Hollinshead, an England Athletics level 4 UKA Coach with over 25 years of coaching experience, said “Running in the winter offers a different experience, sometimes enjoyable and other times not so, and the key is to be prepared for that environment.”

“My top tip is to dress appropriately. Also be prepared to adapt the session. This could mean reducing the length of the run when the environmental conditions dictate.”

Barney Bithell, senior men’s hockey player at Loughborough University, adds, “Embracing a structured routine and breaking down goals into smaller milestones helps keep me focused and performing at my best when it’s cold.”

“I find the Kukri winter kit great for training. It keeps me warm and dry and allows me to focus on my performance without being mentally distracted.”

Kukri Sportswear: Designed to Perform

Kukri’s training and leisurewear range is designed to empower athletes in any condition, offering insulating layers, breathable fabrics, and durable designs for peak performance. Explore the full range today and elevate your training this winter.