Category: News

20/10/202509/10/2025

This Black History Month, we continue to celebrate athletes who are breaking barriers, inspiring others and redefining what’s possible in their sport and the wider community.

One such athlete is Vwairé Obukohwo, a rising talent in British Rowing, whose journey from a school rowing club to the world stage is a story of passion, perseverance and purpose.

As proud partners of British Rowing, Kukri Sports have fuelled their performances on the water – from supporting athletes like Vwairé as World Rowing Cup Series champions in July, to helping power the squad to finish second on the medal table, with three gold, four silver and a bronze.

Finding Passion and Purpose

Vwiaré’s introduction to rowing came almost by accident. “I started rowing at my sixth form rowing club just to get involved in more clubs and sports,” she recalls.

“I quickly fell in love with the sport as it was something that came naturally to me, and I was notoriously bad at every other sport!”

After joining the Twickenham World Class Start Programme, Vwairé thrived in an environment that taught her lessons beyond sport.

“I was lucky enough to have an amazing training environment where I learnt so much beyond rowing – lessons that still motivate me to this day.”

Breakthroughs and Belief

For Vwairé, progress hasn’t only been in her performances on the water, but also deeply mental.

“I believe my biggest breakthrough was cultivating my own motivation,” she explains.

“You can’t control how fast your opponents are or how they perform and rather than stressing about outcomes, I focus on the process and controlling the controllables.”

Overcoming Hurdles

After an exciting start to her rowing career, including winning bronze at her first U23 World Championships and gold in the U23 women’s 2km event at the 2019 Mizuno British Rowing Indoor Championships, Vwairé’s momentum was halted by injury.

“I battled a lot of imposter syndrome which made me think I had to ‘prove’ myself, so I pushed beyond my limits.

“That setback taught me to reframe my perspective and definition of success – it’s no longer about rankings or medals, but about how proud I make myself. It’s an ethos I still carry into all my work today.”

Her comeback has been defined by growth. From finishing sixth in the Women’s Double Sculls at the World Rowing Cup Series in Varese, to competing as part of the senior squad in Lucerne, she continues to show her strength.

Eyes on the Future

Now an established member of the senior squad, Vwairé has her sights firmly set on the LA 2028 Olympic Games.

Beyond the boat, she is using her platform to uplift others as an athlete mentor for the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust.

Through her work, Vwairé supports young people in vulnerable situations, helping them find confidence and purpose through sport.

“Being an athlete is such a gift,” she says. “The future isn’t guaranteed, but I aspire to make history as the first Black GB Rower to grace the Olympic stage.

“And if that’s not god’s will, I’ll continue to use my platform to encourage diversity and inclusivity in the sport.”

Standing Firm in Power and Pride

For Vwairé, Black History Month is a time for reflection, connection and gratitude.

“It allows me to celebrate, connect and reflect. I love being inspired by what the black community has achieved and by the people who make that success possible.

“Rowing has embraced me for who I am, and I’m so grateful to my teammates coaches and support system for allowing me to grow into the athlete I dream of becoming.”

A Message of Inspiration

Vwairé Obukohwo’s story is one of resilience, growth and representation – proof that success isn’t just measured by medals, but the difference you make along the way.

We’re proud to celebrate and recognise athletes like Vwairé, whose achievements on and off the water embody the spirit of Black History Month – Standing Firm in Power and Pride.  

15/10/202506/10/2025

This Black History Month, we continue to celebrate athletes who are trailblazers, role models and inspire the next generation.

One athlete who embodies these qualities is Courtney Tulloch, a British artistic gymnast who has represented Team GB since 2012.

He made history as the first British gymnast to win a major championship medal on rings at the 2022 European Championships and went on to claim rings bronze at the 2022 World Championships in Liverpool.

Courtney is an eight-time European medallist and a back-to-back Commonwealth Games champion in both the team event and on rings, cementing his powerful legacy as one of Britain’s gymnastics greats.

From Inspiration to Excellence

Courtney’s love for gymnastics began with a spark of inspiration. “One moment I always think about was when I was 7, and I saw Great Britain gymnast Kanukai Jackson competing in East London on the vault.

“I remember thinking, wow, I want to be like that,” he explained. “I hadn’t seen many black gymnasts before, so to see him compete and to meet him was a big inspiration for me.”

That early inspiration became a lifelong passion, fuelled by enjoyment and determination.

“I got to where I am now by enjoying the journey.

“Gymnastics can have its ups and downs, but the most important thing is to remember to have fun along the way.”

Defining Career Highlights

Tulloch now has his eyes on a historic double ‘three-peat’ at Glasgow 2026, where he would be competing for Team England and supported by Kukri Sports.

Looking ahead to next year’s games, the Commonwealth Games holds a special place in Courtney’s heart.

“Team Gold in 2018 in particular was very special for me. Standing alongside such a great team that had known each other for so long.”

From European medals to world championship podiums, Courtney has continually pushed boundaries and raised the bar for British Gymnastics, and he’s not done yet.

“Competing at a third Commonwealth Games in Glasgow is definitely something I’m aiming for, especially with the opportunity to compete with my daughter cheering me on. That would be incredible.”

Standing Firm in Power and Pride

For the gymnast star, Black History Month is about celebrating the power of role models and representation in the community.

“I see Black History Month as a really important time to shine a light on inspiring stories and inspiring people.

“It really helps to have a connection to role models and to feel empowered to follow in their footsteps, just like I did when I met Kanukai all those years ago.”

A Message to the Next Generation

Courtney’s journey proves that success is as much about joy, passion and perseverance as it is about medals.

His inspiring story encourages young gymnasts to embrace their journey, stay inspired by those who came before them, and carve out their own path.

We are proud to celebrate athletes like Courtney Tulloch, whose achievements inspire the next generation and embody the spirit of Black History month – standing firm in power and pride. 

10/10/202503/10/2025

This Black History Month, we celebrate athletes whose journeys inspire the next generation and highlight the importance of diversity in sport.

The 2025 theme, ‘Standing Firm in Power and Pride’, pays tribute to the resilience, strength, and commitment of the Black community — values shared by Kukri Sports and through our long-standing partnership with Loughborough University.

One such athlete is Georgina Forde-Wells, a British triple jumper and part-time Loughborough student with standout successes, including being crowned British Triple Jump champion in 2023, 2024 British Indoor Champion and Team GB representative at this year’s European Athletics Team Championships.

From Netball to Triple Jump: Georgina’s Inspiring Journey

“I was initially a netballer, playing for Loughborough Lighting age groups and England U19 squads,” she explains.

“But I tried high jump in school and loved it. Later, I had a go at triple jump in sixth form as they needed to fill a space, and I just loved it!”

Georgina’s love for training and competitive sport was always there. “I’ve always loved having a full-time training schedule – I wanted to be like a professional gymnast when I was younger. Sport was always what I wanted to do, it just took me a little while to figure out which one.”

Mentors Who Made A Difference

Georgina credits her teachers with playing a huge role in her development. “All my teachers saw potential in me and guided me from netball to triple jump. They inspired me to pursue sport at the highest level.”

Defining Moments

Georgina describes her 2023 British Championships gold as a defining career highlight. “That moment was incredible. I went into the champs hoping for silver, but on the day I knew I had it in me to jump big.

“I’d just returned from the European Team championships where it hadn’t gone my way, so I had nothing to lose but something to prove.

The following year brought even more significance. “Winning the British Indoors this year meant the world. Last season I struggled with injuries and couldn’t take off properly.

“I felt a lot of people had opinions on what I should have been doing, but I knew I needed time to find my feet. All the hard work eventually paid off.”

Standing Firm in Power and Pride

For the triple jump star, Black History Month is about recognising the sacrifices of those who came before her.

“It means a great deal to me. I’m in the position I am because of those before me who fought for a place on teams where they weren’t always welcome.

“It pushes me knowing that every time I compete, I’m adding to a much bigger success story.”

Georgina believes it is vital that sport continues to tell those stories. “By celebrating it, we recognise the contributions and sacrifices that have often been overlooked.

“In sport especially, we have a responsibility to keep those stories alive. Stories like Jesse Owens were an inspiration to me as a child and still are to this day.”

A Message to the Next Generation

With her ultimate aim being to represent Team GB at next year’s Commonwealth Games, Georgina’s words for aspiring young athletes are simple but powerful. “Whatever you want is achievable, and you should never underestimate yourself.

“Even if the journey takes patience, everyone’s route to success is different and that is enough.”

We are proud to celebrate athletes like Georgina Forde-Wells, whose achievements inspire the next generation and embody the spirit of Black History Month – standing firm in power and pride.

09/10/202509/10/2025

Somerset County Cricket Club have capped off a season of pride, excitement and record-breaking achievement by lifting the Vitality Blast trophy for the second time in three years.

Their stunning six-wicket win over Hampshire Hawks at Edgbaston marked the culmination of a campaign defined by consistency, resilience and thrilling cricket.

The team won 11 of their 14 group stage matches before defeating Lancashire in the semi-final to book their place in the final, before completing a record chase in a Vitality Blast Finals Day to be crowned champions.

A Winning Partnership

Kukri has been proud to support the squad throughout the season, providing high-performance kits and training wear across all competitions.

Beyond the men’s team, the season was also historic as the inaugural campaign for the Somerset women’s team, showcasing the club’s commitment to growth and excellence across all levels.

Young stars shone brightly, with Thomas and James Rew earning places in the 18-player England Lions squad for this winter’s tour of Australia, further highlighting the depth of talent at Somerset.

Leadership and Experience

Captain Lewis Gregory, who also guided Somerset to Blast glory in 2023 and is the club’s all-time leading T20 wicket taker, reflected on the special achievement.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling. Winning it in 2023, having not been T20 champions since 2005, was incredibly special.

“It takes so much hard work and belief to even get to Finals Day, so to stand there with the trophy again is a huge moment for everyone involved.”

Gregory’s experience and leadership were key in navigating high-pressure moments throughout the tournament.

“My job is to stay calm and give the lads clarity, especially in those crunch situations. It’s about making smart decisions under pressure and giving the younger guys the confidence to express themselves.

“This group makes it easy because everyone backs each other completely.”

Key Moments in the Final

The final itself was packed with drama and decisive moments, with Gregory highlighting the contributions that helped swing the match in Somerset’s favour.

“Will Smeed’s innings gave us the platform we needed, and Sean Dickson’s knock kept the momentum going at a crucial stage.

“Those partnerships, along with some sharp bowling in the middle overs, really turned the game in our favour.”

Gregory also made his mark on the field, taking a wicket against Hampshire in the final.

“Finals are about big moments, and as a bowler, you dream of contributing in those situations. To take a wicket in the final, especially given the stage and what was at stake, was incredibly satisfying.”

Performance and Pride with Kukri

Kukri’s kit was an important part of the players’ preparation and performance which contributed to the triumph.

“The Kukri kit has been fantastic all season, both in terms of comfort and quality. It represents Somerset brilliantly and gives us that extra bit of pride when we step out onto the field.”

Squad Depth and Culture

The historical triumph reflects the depth, character and culture of the Somerset squad.

“We’ve built a squad full of talent,, but also full of resilience,” Gregory said.

“There were times this season when different players stepped up every single time. That shows the depth we have and the culture that’s been created at the club – one where everyone knows their role and plays for the badge on the shirt, not just themselves.”

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead to the future, Somerset’s captain is focused on sustaining the momentum and driving further success.

“It sets the standard really. Winning the Blast twice in three years shows what we’re capable of, but it also makes us hungry for more.

“Next year, we’ll be going in with the same mindset – to keep improving and competing for trophies.”

This season has been a testament to Somerset CCC’s ambition, talent and culture – a campaign defined by thrilling cricket, pride, performance and the partnership with Kukri that supports the players in making history.

08/10/202501/10/2025

As part of our ongoing para-sports campaign, Kukri Sports is proud to partner with British Fencing, supplying their training and podium-wear while supporting athletes who are redefining limits.

Among them is Dimitri Coutya MBE, whose story is one of extraordinary resilience, perseverance and achievement.

After a car accident at the age of two left him with a T-4 spinal cord injury and wheelchair-bound, Dimitri discovered fencing as a young boy and quickly revealed his talent, winning two bronze medals at his first two competitions.

Since then, his rise since has been remarkable. At the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, he secured team silver, team bronze and two individual bronze medals, before making history as the first British fencing athlete to be selected in all three individual weapons for the 2024 Paralympic Games.

In Paris, Dimitri went on to claim individual Foil gold and individual Epee gold, helping Team GB surpass their Tokyo gold medal tally.

Most recently, he added to his legacy with gold at this year’s Para Fencing Championships, cementing his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Dimitri shared three defining images that capture the milestones of his journey so far.

Photo 1: My First UK School Games Competition

Dimitri’s first UK School Games competition introduced him to the thrill of competitive fencing. The experience ignited his passion for the sport and set the foundation for a career defined by skill, focus and determination.

Photo 2: Semi-final loss at Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games

A narrow 15-14 defeat in the men’s foil individual category B event ended Dimitri’s hopes of individual gold in Tokyo. Yet this heartbreaking loss became a powerful motivator, inspiring him to bounce back with his third bronze medal.

Ever since, Dimitri has never looked back and continues to be an inspiration for para-fencers all over the world.

Photo 3: Becoming Paralympic Champion

Three years after Tokyo, Dimitri achieved the ultimate reward for his perseverance in becoming double champion at the 2024 Paralympic Games.

The moment captured not only the culmination of years of dedication but also the spirit of resilience that defines him as an athlete and an inspiration to others.

Through our para-sports campaign, Kukri Sports celebrates athletes like Dimitri, whose achievements rewrite records and perceptions alike. From grassroots beginnings to the world’s biggest stages, we’re proud to provide the apparel that supports their journey and showcases the brilliance and power of para-sport.

Beyond Limits. Together.

02/10/202501/10/2025

Every athlete’s journey is defined by key moments, the first time they step onto an international stage, the first time they lead a team, and the first time they achieve a dream they have worked for tirelessly.

As part of our ongoing campaign focused on para-sports and athletes, we’re shining a light on incredible athletes whose journeys embody resilience, break barriers and inspire the next generation.

Amy Thompson’s story is one of dedication, perseverance and milestone moments that showcase the power of determination in para-sport.

A promising F41 shot-put athlete and proud Kukri ambassador, Amy has shared three images that capture the moments that have defined her exciting journey so far.

Photo 1: My First England International

Stepping onto the field in England kit for the first time at the Loughborough Pathway International was a dream come true for Amy. Not only did she equal her personal best throw of 7.94m, but she also received the female shotput performance award.

This milestone marked the beginning of her international career and now, just over two years later, Amy made her international debut at the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, finishing seventh in the F41 classification.

Photo 2: My First Time Captaining an England Team

Being named captain at the 2024 U20 Home Countries International was another defining moment in Amy’s journey. Leadership is about inspiring others and guiding a team to success, and she embraced the challenge with confidence and determination.

Photo 3: My First Call-Up to the World Para Athletics Championships

Competing at this year’s World Athletics Para Championships represents the pinnacle of Amy’s journey so far. Sharing the stage with her role models and representing her country at the highest level demonstrates the extraordinary results of perseverance and dedication.

Her story continues to inspire others, showing what’s possible when barriers are challenged and resilience drives action.

These three milestones highlight not only Amy’s remarkable rise in para-athletics, but also the spirit of para-sport itself.

As part of our ongoing para-sports campaign, Kukri Sports celebrates athletes like Amy – those who break barriers, redefine possibilities and motivate the next generation.

Beyond Limits. Together.