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Celebrating Female Athletes on International Women’s Day

World News

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.

Kukri Sports and AusCycling Join Forces in an Exciting New Partnership

Kukri Sports is proud to announce a landmark partnership with AusCycling, the peak body for all forms of cycling and riding in Australia. This marks a significant step in Kukri’s commitment to supporting world-class athletes and grassroots development across the Australian sporting community.

As the Official Off-Bike Apparel Partner of AusCycling, Kukri Sports will provide high-quality, custom-designed teamwear and lifestyle apparel to the ARA Australian Cycling Team athletes, coaches, and officials across a variety of cycling disciplines, including BMX, track, road, mountain bike, and para-cycling. This partnership reflects a shared vision of fostering excellence and inclusivity in sport, from community-level riders to elite competitors representing Australia on the global stage.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with AusCycling, an organisation that champions innovation and diversity within the sport. At Kukri, we pride ourselves on delivering apparel that meets the unique needs of athletes, helping them perform at their best. We look forward to working closely with AusCycling to create custom solutions that reflect their dynamic and inclusive spirit,” said Chris Marshall, Global Brand Director, Kukri Sports.

With an initial four-year term, the partnership will extend across major national and international events, equipping teams with cutting-edge, sustainable apparel designed to feel great and  celebrate the vibrancy of Australian cycling culture. This collaboration will also see the launch of official event merchandise and exclusive fanwear collections, offering supporters the chance to showcase their passion for cycling.

”We’re delighted to welcome Kukri Sport as our new off-bike apparel partner. From our first conversations, we have been so impressed with their approach; they share our passion for providing our athletes, coaches, staff and fans with high quality, beautifully designed clothing, with sustainability a critical consideration. We can’t wait to see our ARA Australian Cycling Team athletes fitted out in their new uniforms in the coming months!” said Kate Patterson, EGM Commercial, AusCycling.

About AusCycling

AusCycling is Australia’s national cycling body, representing over 50,000 members and 450 clubs across BMX, mountain bike, road, track, para-cycling, and recreational riding. Established in 2020 through the amalgamation of 19 organisations, it unites and grows cycling nationwide. Recognised by the UCI and Australian Sports Commission, AusCycling supports grassroots and elite athletes while advocating for safety, inclusivity, and accessibility in cycling.

Jonathan Jones: A Champion’s Journey in Celebration of Black History Month

North America

As Black History Month is recognised across North America this month, we acknowledge and celebrate the journey of Black athletes in the region – those who have broken barriers, redefined excellence and inspired future generations. Kukri Sports, a proud partner of Team Barbados, is honoured to support athletes who embody these values on and off the track.

Among those making an indelible mark is Jonathan Jones, a world-class sprinter from Barbados whose journey epitomizes determination, perseverance and national pride.

A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Jones has competed at the highest-level, representing Barbados on the world stage. From the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a bronze medalist in the 400m at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, Jones continues to set records and push boundaries on the track as a Team Barbados athlete.

A Journey of Inspiration and Dedication

Jones’ passion for athletics started during his childhood in Saint Lucy, Barbados, where he participated in various sports.

Watching the 2012 London Olympics ignited a fire within him, with athletes like Kirani James and David Rudisha serving as his role models and playing a crucial role in shaping his love for the 400m and 800m events.

“I was inspired through a series of events in my childhood and adolescent years to embark on my career in athletics,” Jones recalls.

“Watching fellow Caribbean athletes and international athletes compete on the biggest stage was truly inspiring.”

One of the defining moments in his career came in 2014 when he was given the opportunity to represent Barbados.

Despite the honor, he declined, choosing instead to train harder to earn his place.

His commitment paid off when he won silver and bronze medals at the CARIFTA Games in 2015, followed by gold medals in 2016.

“That choice and mindset shaped me as an athlete and person,” Jones reflects. “I always expect to earn my spot and work diligently to make my dreams a reality.”

Representing Barbados on the World Stage

Proudly donning the national colours of Barbados, Jones has embraced his role as an ambassador for his country.

“Whenever I walk around the athlete’s village during a championship, it feels amazing to know that Barbados is being seen and showcased.

“The pinnacle of my joy is standing on the medal podium with my Barbados kit on and our national anthem playing.”

Jones’ drive stems from the dreams of his younger self and his desire to inspire the next generation of Barbadian athletes.

“I continue to do this not just for myself, but for the kids growing up in Barbados. I want to see that if I can do it, they can too.”

Honouring Black History Month

Black History Month holds deep significance for Jones as a time for reflection and appreciation.

“It’s a moment to look back at those who paved the way for us,” he says.

“Coming from an island like Barbados, I have many pioneers and icons to look up to, from sports legends like Sada Williams to national heroes like Bussa.

“It’s about recognizing their sacrifices and using their legacy as motivation to keep pushing forward.”

He also acknowledges the importance of black athletes throughout history in breaking down barriers and standing for social justice.

“We had athletes like Muhammad Ali and Jackie Robinson who fought for equality and paved the way for us to compete freely today.

“Their courage and resilience remind me that sports is not just about competition—it’s about representation, inclusion, and the fight for fairness.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

Jones encourages aspiring athletes to embrace discipline and perseverance. “Work so relentlessly that you can’t be ignored or overlooked,” he advises. “Success isn’t guaranteed, but if you give it everything without holding back, you’ll see the results.”

Beyond competition, Jones believes in the power of sports to drive diversity, inclusion, and social justice. “Sports have always played a role in fighting for equal rights and opportunities,” he says. “Athletes today use their platforms to raise awareness and inspire change, and that’s something I want to be part of.”

As he continues his journey, Jones remains focused on future goals—both on and off the track. “I want to compete happily in my Barbados colours again, improve in the coming years, and stand at the top of the medal podium.”

Jonathan Jones is not only a record-breaking athlete but also a symbol of perseverance and national pride. As we celebrate Black History Month, his journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and a testament to the power of dedication, resilience, and representation.

About Team Barbados

Kukri Sports is proud to be partnered with Team Barbados, providing the team and athletes with high-performance sportswear designed to help them unleash their greatness and feel proud to represent their nation and inspire others.

Learn more about Team Barbados

FOLLOW JONATHAN ON INSTAGRAM

Inclusivity in Sport: Why Age Should Never Be a Barrier

In a world where sport is often associated with youth and peak physical performance, the idea that age can be a limitation still persists. But at Kukri Sports, we believe that sports such as athletics should be for everyone, regardless of age or background. The beauty of sport lies in its inclusivity—it has the power to unite, inspire, and empower people from all walks of life.

The Myth of ‘Too Old’

One of the biggest misconceptions in sport is that there is an age limit to participation. Whether it’s running, throwing, or jumping, athletics offers a discipline for everyone. The truth is, taking up or continuing sport later in life not only benefits physical health but also enhances mental well-being, social connection, and overall quality of life.

We caught up with Tracey Francis, the Participation Programmes Manager at England Athletics to give her thoughts on the topic, “staying physically engaged supports positive mental health, reduces loneliness and isolation, and provides opportunities to socialise, meet new people, and build friendships.” Physically, “it enhances brain health, bone density, cardiovascular fitness, and muscle tone.” “Regular activity can also speed up recovery from illness or injury and plays a vital role in rehabilitation.”

From grassroots runners finding their stride later in life to former elite athletes staying involved in competitive masters’ events, countless individuals are proving that age is no barrier to achievement. Park runs, veterans’ athletics leagues, and community clubs are thriving with participants who defy the outdated notion that sport is only for the young.

The Power of Inclusivity

Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do at Kukri Sports. Our commitment extends beyond providing high-quality sportswear; we aim to support individuals at every stage of their sporting journey. Through partnerships with clubs, schools, and organisations worldwide, we champion opportunities for athletes of all ages to access the right apparel to perform at their best.

Tracey continued, “We highlight the importance of inclusivity by offering three participation levels: Get Me Started, Keep Me Going, and Challenge Me.” These tiers ensure that individuals of all ages and abilities have tailored training plans to meet their needs. The initiative also provides guide runners for those with visual impairments and dedicated Mental Health Champions to support participants’ well-being.

Sport is about more than just competition—it’s about participation, perseverance, and personal growth. Whether you’re taking your first steps onto a track, returning to the field after years away, or setting new personal records at 60, 70, or beyond, your journey in athletics is uniquely yours.

Overcoming Barriers and Fears

For those hesitant to take part in athletics due to age, England Athletics stresses that running, like walking, is a lifelong skill. With over 40% of RunTogether participants aged 40–55 and 70% female, the programme encourages walking and jogging as an accessible entry point. Running is also a proven rehabilitation tool, with research showing it can slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease symptoms and boost overall well-being.

Tracey explains, “Our approach focuses on real-life participants rather than elite athletes, reinforcing that anyone can get involved.” Their running groups operate on core values of fun, safety, inclusivity, and friendliness, with qualified leaders providing support at every stage.

The Social and Community Impact

Participation in sports later in life isn’t just about fitness—it also enhances confidence, social connections, and community engagement. According to Tracey, “research shows that group running is more enjoyable, social, and safe.” Many groups meet in community spaces and often gather at local cafés after their runs, fostering friendships and support networks beyond the track.

The social aspect of RunTogether is just as important as the physical benefits, and that’s why many groups incorporate social activities into their schedules. Feeling part of a community motivates individuals to stay engaged and continue their athletic journeys.

The Role of Sportswear in Supporting Older Athletes

While comfort is key when starting out, the right sportswear can significantly enhance confidence and performance. Tracey states, “As runners progress, they see the value in investing in proper footwear, technical clothing, and group kits to foster a sense of belonging.”

Kukri Sports is proud to support this movement, ensuring that athletes of all ages have access to high-quality, performance-driven apparel tailored to their needs. Our partnership with England Athletics and RunTogether provides essential support for their voluntary workforce, equipping Run Leader Mentors with Kukri kit to maintain professionalism and visibility within the community.

So, whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a returning competitor, or someone considering taking up athletics for the first time—go for it. Break the barriers, challenge the stereotypes, and embrace the journey. Sport belongs to everyone, and age should never be a reason to sit on the sidelines.

At Kukri Sports, we’re here to support you every step, stride, and sprint along the way – Get in touch

Learn more about Run Together

Kukri Sports and British Rowing Launch New Partnership to Empower GB Rowing Community

Kukri Sports is excited to announce a new partnership with British Rowing, the national governing body for rowing in Great Britain. 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 teamwear 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. The GB Rowing Team crews will also be racing in Kukri sportswear on the world stage. By delivering high-quality apparel to athletes, fans, and supporters, the partnership aims to strengthen community engagement and raise awareness for rowing across Great Britain.

“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 Great Britain, 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.

Are you interested in new rowing sportswear for your team

Find Out How Kukri Can Help

About British Rowing:
British Rowing is the national governing body for rowing in Great Britain, 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.

Kukri Sports Expands European Presence with Sportz88 Partnership

World News

Kukri Sports is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Sportz88, a premier sports agency specialising in teamwear distribution across Europe.

This collaboration marks a significant step in Kukri’s European expansion, reinforcing its commitment to providing high-quality, customised sports apparel to teams, clubs, and organisations across the region.

Sportz88, renowned for its extensive network and expertise in the sportswear industry, will play a key role in increasing Kukri’s presence in key European markets. By leveraging Sportz88’s distribution channels and deep industry knowledge, Kukri aims to strengthen its brand and extend its reach to a wider audience of athletes and sports enthusiasts.

“We are excited to partner with Sportz88 as we continue our journey of growth in Europe,” said Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports. “Their extensive network and experience in the sportswear market make them the perfect partner to help us deliver premium, bespoke sportswear solutions to teams and organizations across the continent.”

Sportz88 shares Kukri’s passion for innovation and excellence, ensuring that customers receive high-performance sportswear tailored to their specific needs. This partnership will not only enhance Kukri’s footprint in Europe but also provide athletes with greater access to cutting-edge sports apparel designed to elevate performance.

“At Sportz88, we are thrilled to announce our partnership with Kukri Sports, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in sportswear. Our mission has always been to connect top-tier sports brands with teams and organizations across Europe, and this collaboration allows us to strengthen that commitment.

“With our extensive international distribution network, we will support Kukri in expanding its presence across key European markets, ensuring that athletes have access to premium, performance-driven sportswear. Together, we look forward to empowering teams and individuals with high-quality apparel designed to enhance performance and comfort.

This partnership represents a shared vision of excellence, and we are excited about the opportunities ahead!” – Philip Ploegaerts, CEO – Sportz88

This latest expansion underscores Kukri’s continued dedication to growth, innovation, and delivering market-leading sportswear worldwide. With a rich history of supplying elite teams, institutions, and grassroots organisations, Kukri remains at the forefront of the industry, combining heritage with cutting-edge design and technology.

About Sportz88

Sportz88 is a leading sports agency focused on distributing high-quality teamwear solutions across Europe. With an extensive network and industry expertise, Sportz88 connects top brands with sports teams and organizations, ensuring athletes have access to the best sportswear available.

Find out more

Kukri Sports and Volleyball England Partnership Announcement

Kukri Sports is proud to announce a new five-year partnership with Volleyball England, becoming the official kit supplier for the national governing body. This collaboration reinforces our commitment to supporting athletes at all levels with high-quality, bespoke teamwear that enhances performance and unites teams.

Through this partnership, we will design and supply kit for all Volleyball England national teams and coaches (indoor and beach), Hub staff, officials, and volunteers, while also developing a retail line. Fans and players alike will be able to purchase official merchandise through VolleyStore from April 2025.

Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports, expressed excitement about the new collaboration:

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Volleyball England in their mission to grow and develop the sport across the country. At Kukri Sports, we take pride in providing high-quality, bespoke teamwear that meets the needs of athletes at all levels. This partnership highlights our commitment to delivering innovative sportswear that empowers teams, and we look forward to working together to elevate the volleyball community in England.”

Kukri have established strong relationships with leading sports organisations, including England Athletics, British Gymnastics, Loughborough University, Somerset County Cricket Club, British Wheelchair Basketball, and Northern Ireland Volleyball.

Among our brand ambassadors are England’s top beach volleyball duo and world-ranked 15th players, Javier and Joaquin Bello, who exemplify our commitment to supporting elite athletes in their pursuit of excellence.

Beyond quality and performance, sustainability and inclusivity are core to our brand ethos. We are dedicated to using eco-friendly materials and ethical production methods, ensuring that our sportswear is accessible to everyone, regardless of age, gender, disability, or sexual orientation. This aligns with Volleyball England’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainability, as outlined in The Game Plan strategy.

Charlie Ford, CEO of Volleyball England, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership:

“We are absolutely delighted to be working with Kukri, a globally recognised brand with a strong track record in delivering high-quality sportswear. This partnership is strategically significant for Volleyball England, marking a new chapter in how we support our players, coaches, officials, staff, and volunteers across all three formats of the sport. It is a key step in our mission to elevate volleyball in England, and we look forward to the positive impact this collaboration will bring.”

We are excited to embark on this journey with Volleyball England and look forward to seeing our partnership contribute to the continued growth of volleyball across the country.

ENGLAND LACROSSE STAR TEAMS UP WITH KUKRI SPORTS AS NEW AMBASSADOR

United Kingdom

Kukri Sports is proud to announce senior England women’s Lacrosse player Liv Thomas as its first-ever lacrosse ambassador, strengthening the brand’s commitment to supporting athletes across multiple sports.

“Becoming Kukri’s first-ever lacrosse ambassador is an exciting opportunity. I not only want to represent the brand, but also help grow the game and increase awareness of lacrosse within the wider sports community.”

“I have worn Kukri kit for years, through school and England Lacrosse, so they have been with me in some of my biggest moments,” she said.

Thomas’ lacrosse journey began at age 11, but it was during her time at University of Exeter – one of Kukri’s university partners – that her development as an athlete accelerated.

“Playing at Exeter was huge for my development. The regular training, leadership experience as captain and my teammates all helped me grow as an athlete,” said Thomas.

By 2022, her hard work paid off when she made her senior England debut against Puerto Rico.

Having fought through an ACL tear and hamstring injuries over an 18-month period, she is now on the verge of returning to competitive action – and taking on an exciting new role with Kukri.

Now, after months of rehab and her sights set on a full return to action, Thomas is determined to bounce back even stronger.

“I hope to get back out there in a month or so. I’m making sure my body is 100% ready and not rushing back.

“The focus is on quality rehab so I can return at my best.”

Kukri Sports is delighted to welcome Liv Thomas to its growing list of ambassadors and looks forward to working with her to promote and grow the game of lacrosse.

About England Lacrosse

England Lacrosse is the national governing body for lacrosse in England. The men’s national team have contested every World Lacrosse Championship since 1967, while the women’s team continue to dominate, with the senior team winning four straight European Championships.

Kukri has been proud to support their journey since 2019 as the official kit supplier, as well as providing bespoke playing and training wear for all England national squads, academies and staff.

Our Ambassadors

Kukri are proud to work with several ambassadors across multiple sports, from nurturing young talent at England Athletics to supporting a Netball Northern Ireland women’s player.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THEM

KUKRI SPORTS AND WELSH GYMNASTICS ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP EXTENSION

United Kingdom

Kukri Sports is delighted to announce the extension of their long-standing partnership with Welsh Gymnastics.

As part of the renewed multi-year agreement, Kukri will continue to provide bespoke leisure and podium wear for all performance programmes, national teams and squads.

The partnership highlights a shared commitment to supporting the gymnastics community in Wales and inspiring athletes of all levels to develop and unleash their greatness.

The renewal includes an exciting new benefit for Welsh Gymnastics members, including exclusive discounts to high-quality kit. This initiative ensures that members have access to premium sportswear designed to enhance performance and provide comfort, whether training at a young age or competing internationally.

EXPLORE THE ONLINE SHOP

Since the collaboration began in 2016, Kukri has been a proud partner in Welsh Gymnastics’ journey, supporting the development of gymnasts across the region.

The partnership has coincided with remarkable milestones, such as Ruby Evans becoming the first Welsh female artistic gymnast since 1966 to represent Team GB at the 2024 Paris Olympics, a testament to the talent nurtured within Welsh Gymnastics.

Josh Beal, Sales Director GB & Europe at Kukri Sports, said “We are very proud to extend our partnership with Welsh Gymnastics. Over the last decade, we’ve been inspired by the athletes and community, and we are committed to continuing to support their incredible journey. By offering exclusive discounts to members, we’re ensuring gymnasts at all levels have access to high-quality kit that can help them perform at their best.”

“We’re delighted to renew our partnership with Kukri, a trusted brand that shares our commitment to excellence”, said Victoria Ward, CEO at Welsh Gymnastics.

The renewed partnership not only reflects a commitment to providing world-class kit for elite athletes but also underscores a dedication to making the sport more accessible and inclusive.

Start Your Journey with Kukri Sports

Are you looking for high-quality kit to elevate your performance? Contact us today to discover how Kukri Sports can support you or your team.

GET IN TOUCH

About Welsh Gymnastics

Welsh Gymnastics is the governing body for gymnastics in Wales, promoting participation, development and excellence in the sport. With a focus on inclusivity and achievement, Welsh Gymnastics works to support athletes, coaches and clubs in reaching their full potential. Find out more.