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“ON TOP OF THE WORLD!”: BELLO BROTHERS MAKE HISTORY IN BEACH PRO TOUR ELITE 16 TRIUMPH

Kukri Sports is thrilled to celebrate its Beach Volleyball ambassadors, Javier & Joaquin Bello on winning the Beach Pro Tour (BPT) Elite 16 in Rio de Janeiro.

The brothers have made history as the first British pair to claim a BPT title at professional level, marking a monumental milestone for UK Beach Volleyball on the global stage.

In a pulsating final on 10 November, the Bellos defeated Argentina’s Tomas and Nicolas Capograsso to lift the trophy and secure their place among the world’s top 16 for the first time.

Reflecting on their unprecedented victory, Javier and Joaquin shared the pride they felt in reaching an unforgettable milestone.

“It’s really amazing – it’s something we have been working towards for years. It feels like we are on top of the world!

“At the same time, we know there’s still a long way to go, and we’re excited to keep building on this momentum and reach even higher goals”, they said.

The semi-final proved to be a deciding moment in the tournament, where the duo beat Olympic bronze medallists Anders Mol and Christian Sørum to book their place in the final.

“They are one of the best volleyball teams in history. We had managed to push them to three sets in the previous tournament, so we thought it was possible, but we had to play a really solid game.

“We were able to find a couple of crucial points when we needed to and stuck together in the tough moments, which we took into the final,” the brothers reflected.

The Bellos’ journey to this victory has been marked by hard work, dedication and perseverance. Their near-miss in qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games fuelled their motivation to keep pushing forward.

“At the beginning of the year, we played a few Elite 16 tournaments as we were super close to qualifying for the Olympics, and we needed just one single run like this to make it to Paris.

“Although it was quite unfortunate that we didn’t manage to do it, it kept us motivated and working hard in our day-to-day, which made the difference in Rio.”

This historic achievement sets a new benchmark for British beach volleyball -one the Bellos hope will inspire the sport’s future in the UK. “The growth of beach volleyball in the UK in the last few years is remarkable.

“We hope we can keep inspiring the younger generation, showing just how amazing this sport is and what is possible if you work hard for your dreams.”

Looking forward, the Bellos are already eyeing further milestones. “As our favourite Kobe Bryant quote says, ‘job’s not finished’.

“We have a long road ahead to keep improving and hopefully winning more. We want to be the best team in the world and continue living our dream of playing in the biggest and best tournaments.

Kukri Sports is incredibly proud to support the Bellos, who wear a bespoke range designed to help them perform their best in training and intense competitions around the world.

“We really have the best kit, and it is exactly what we need to perform at our best. It makes us extremely proud every day stepping out onto the court, and we’re really grateful for having Kukri in our corner.”

With this monumental win behind them, the Bello Brothers are ready to tackle new heights in beach volleyball and continue to raise the bar for British athletes worldwide – with Kukri fuelling their journey to greatness.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE BELLO BROTHERS

Cork Constitution: Champions Again & Hungry For More Success

Ireland

Months after their triumph, Cork Constitution’s seventh Energia All Ireland League (AIL) title still resonates deeply within the club’s storied history.

As an official partner of Kukri Sports, alongside many other ruby clubs in Ireland, the club has benefitted from high-quality support.

Winning the title at the Aviva Stadium in a dramatic showdown against Terenure College – despite being reduced to 14 men just 19 minutes into the game, highlighted their grit, determination and spirit of the squad.

The triumph capped a stellar season that also saw the J1 team win the Charity Cup and retain the Munster Senior Clubs Division 1 league, with a last-minute try securing the title.

For players, coaches and supporters, this success reaffirmed Cork Con’s legacy as one of Ireland’s most successful rugby institutions.

Reflecting on a memorable campaign, team captain David Hyland shared. “It’s an honour. Away wins against Terenure and Lansdowne gave us a lot of momentum during the season and helped us to secure a home semi-final.”

Head Coach Johnny Holland also expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishment, describing it as ‘one of the most satisfying moments in my coaching career’, and adding, “Watching our players celebrating and enjoying themselves makes the job more worthwhile.”

“I’m confident that this group is capable of winning it again, but there’s a lot of quality in the league, and every team is expecting to win each week, which makes it a unique challenge.”

After four games, Cork Con sit in seventh place in the AIL with the season still young, and they’re determined to push toward the play-offs.

“Our goal as a team is to win the AIL, Munster Seconds League, Charity Cup for a second year in a row and the Munster Junior Cup,” Hyland said.

“We are confident we can achieve these goals, but remain very aware that it will take an even higher level of effort and commitment.”

A crucial part of this pursuit has been Kukri Sports’ support, proudly supporting their performances with high-quality sportswear.

“The Kukri gear has been excellent this year, all of our performance and match day needs have been looked after with kit that is comfortable and makes us feel proud when stepping out onto the pitch.”

Head Coach Holland echoed this sentiment. “The gear looks great and ensures that we’re together as a group when we’re going to and from matches especially.”

Kukri Sports’ NI and ROI Country Manager, Neil Patterson, also expressed pride in the club’s achievements. “We’re incredibly proud of Cork Constitution’s hard work to win their seventh AIL title, as well as their other team’s success.

“We are dedicated to providing the highest quality sportswear to support them on and off the pitch and are excited to be part of their success.”

With Kukri’s ongoing support, Cork Constitution is prepared to face whatever challenges lie ahead, driven by a hunger for continued success. This season promises excitement as Cork Con pushes forward – equipped, focused, and united in their pursuit of another historic season.

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

United Kingdom

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

United Kingdom

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

World News

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

Ellie Stevens Joins Kukri Sports As Brand Ambassador

North America

Now based in Las Vegas, Ellie is an elite competitor in a variety of running events. Her extraordinary journey, marked by resilience and triumph, perfectly embodies Kukri’s commitment to performance and excellence.

“I am so excited and honoured to become a Kukri ambassador. It’s a brand I’ve followed and respected for years. The quality of their sportswear and their ethos really align with my life values. I’m thrilled to partner with them and contribute to their future success.”

Ellie’s running career has been nothing short of inspiring. After transitioning from dance and gymnastics to cross-country at 13, she quickly fell in love with the sport, progressing to national-level competitions. However, her journey took an unexpected turn in her early 20s when she was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (M.E.), a condition that forced her to put her Olympic aspirations on hold.

“It was a rollercoaster,” Ellie shared. “But with patience, the support of my family, and some amazing doctors, I learned to manage my condition and make my comeback.”

Her resilience in the face of adversity made her a natural fit for Kukri, a brand known for supporting athletes across diverse sports and disciplines. “Kukri manages to bridge the gap between different sports, making us all look and feel great.

“Whether you’re running track, competing in a team sport, or pushing your individual limits, their gear is always functional, stylish and top-quality,” said Ellie.

Looking ahead, Ellie is excited about the new chapter with Kukri.

“Kukri has always been about inclusivity and supporting athletes in achieving their best. For me, that aligns perfectly with my personal philosophy of ‘no stone left unturned’ – always striving to be the best version of myself.”

Jamie Williams, Vice President of North America, expressed his excitement. “Ellie’s journey is truly inspiring, and we are honoured to have her join us. This is another significant milestone for Kukri in North America, as we continue to expand and partner with incredible athletes and teams.

“We’re thrilled to work with Ellie on her bespoke range, ensuring she has the personalised, high-performance gear she needs to continue competing at the highest level.”

Ellie joins a growing list of Kukri ambassadors across athletics, boxing, and beach volleyball. The brand looks forward to supporting her ongoing success and the inspiration she brings to athletes worldwide.

READ MORE ABOUT ELLIE

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR AMBASSADORS

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.

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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.