Ireland Asia Middle East North America New Zealand Australia

THE RISE OF WOMEN’S LAWN BOWLS IN CANADA

North America

With women’s participation in lawn bowls rising across Canada, the sport is undergoing a powerful shift – one defined by equity, visibility and international success.

At the heart of this momentum is Kukri Sports, who for over a decade has proudly stood as the official sportswear partner of Bowls Canada Boulingrin.

This partnership has helped to shape a confident, unified image for Canada’s national athletes and also champion the growth of the sport.

A Sport Gaining Momentum

Over recent years, Bowls Canada has seen an encouraging trend of more women participating, entering coaching and officiating pathways, as well as earning recognition on the international stage.

“At Bowls Canada, we believe that advancing gender equity strengthens the entire sport,” said Britany Gordon, CEO at Bowls Canada Boulingrin.

“We are proud of the strides of our female athletes, coaches and leaders are making nationally and internationally.

“With partners like Kukri helping us elevate the profile of our athletes, we are excited for the future of women’s lawn bowls in Canada – one where every woman sees a place for herself, both on and off the green.”

Global Success

The visibility of the sport has been backed by results, with Canadian women making headlines globally.

– Kelly McKerihen earned silver in women’s singles at the 2023 World Bowls Championships, tying Canada’s all-time best finish in the event.

– Canada’s women’s triples team took home bronze at the same event—the country’s strongest team finish in over a decade.

– McKerihen and Emma Boyd went on to win the women’s pairs title at the 2023 Hong Kong International Bowls Classic, a globally prestigious competition.

These podium performances are part of a larger trend: in the last two World Bowls cycles (2016-2023), Canada’s women have won nearly half (5 out of 12) of the nation’s international medals.

In 2024, Louise McLean made history by capturing Canada’s first international para bowls medal, with a podium finish in Women’s singles at the IBD World Championships.

Kukri Sports: More Than a Uniform

Kukri’s decade-long partnership has provided more than just apparel – it’s created a bold and professional identity for Team Canada that reflects the talent and ambition of its athletes.

The visibility and pride that comes from stepping onto the green in Kukri’s custom kit sends a message that Canadian bowlers belong on the world stage.

“Our partnership with Kukri Sports has played an important role in building a strong, professional image for our athletes,” said Britany Gordon.

“Having world-class apparel helps us present a unified, confident Team Canada, which in turn strengthens the visibility and recognition of our women’s teams.

“As we work to grow the sport, the visibility provided by strong branding is a valuable asset in inspiring future female bowlers.”

Jamie Williams, Vice President at Kukri Sports North America, added, “We are incredibly proud of our ongoing partnership with Bowls Canada.

“Over the last decade, we’ve seen remarkable growth in the sport, especially among women athletes. We are fully committed to empowering athletes by providing high-quality apparel to help them perform at their peak.

“We look forward to continuing our support and elevating the success of Canada’s women’s lawn bowlers on the world stage for years to come.”

Equity on and off the Green

Bowls Canada has made gender equity a core part of its mission. Women and men now compete in equal numbers at national championships, supported by inclusive event formats.

Nearly half of the Board of Directors and 45% of certified umpires are women, reflecting strong female leadership across the sport that continues to grow.

From youth to senior levels, Canadian women continue to thrive and are proving that with the right support, access to high-quality sportswear and visibility, success follows.

A Shared Vision for the Road Ahead

Together, Bowls Canada and Kukri Sports are not just outfitting athletes—they’re helping lead a movement. A movement that welcomes women, celebrates success, and inspires the next generation to step up, compete, and lead on and off the green.

We are proud to support Bowls Canada as they continue to inspire through their commitment to equity, excellence and the success of women in lawn bowls.

Find out more about Bowls Canada

Kukri Sports and Druids RFC Extend Long-Standing Partnership

North America

Kukri Sports is proud to announce the renewal of its partnership with Druids RFC, reinforcing a successful relationship that has flourished since 2017. This three-year extension showcases both parties’ commitment to providing high-quality, innovative sportswear for athletes at all levels of the club.

Shauna McGill, VP of Communications and Social Media at Druids RFC, expressed the club’s enthusiasm for the continued partnership: “The Druids have long trusted Kukri to outfit our teams, from juniors to seniors, and this renewed collaboration strengthens our successful history of delivering top-quality kit and support to our players. Kukri’s commitment to innovation and exceptional customer service has been invaluable to our club, and we are excited to continue this partnership.

“As we look ahead to the 2025 season and beyond, we can’t wait to take the pitch in our custom-designed Kukri competition and spirit wear. This partnership is a testament to the trust and shared commitment between the Druids and Kukri, and we look forward to what the future holds!”

The renewal comes at a significant time for Druids RFC as the club celebrates its 65th anniversary. In recognition of this milestone, Kukri Sports will be launching a special edition anniversary apparel range, providing club members with the opportunity to commemorate this historic moment in style.

Jamie Williams, Vice President – North America at Kukri Sports, shared his excitement about the continued partnership: “We are delighted to have extended our partnership with the Druids for another three years. We have had a great working relationship with the club since we started our relationship back in 2017.

“The partnership renewal coincides with a significant milestone for the club as they enter their 65th anniversary, and we are excited to launch an exclusive anniversary range of apparel that will be available for club members to purchase in the coming weeks. We have a great footprint across Alberta, and this announcement further cements our position as the go-to brand for rugby in the province.”

Kukri Sports remains dedicated to supporting grassroots and elite rugby teams with premium, custom-designed apparel that meets the demands of modern athletes. The renewed partnership with Druids RFC continues this commitment, ensuring players and supporters alike can represent their club with pride.

Find out more about Druids RFC

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

KUKRI SPORTS AMBASSADOR SHINES IN BERMUDA TRIANGLE CHALLENGE

North America

Kukri Sports is thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our running ambassador, Ellie Stevens, at the Bermuda Triangle Challenge.

The event, held from 17-19 February and spanning three action-packed days, featured ten overall races, with Ellie competing in The Chubb Bermuda Triangle Challenge Series of three races in three days.

Ellie’s delivered remarkable performances, winning the PWC Women’s Half Marathon, BF&M 10k and claim the title of overall challenge champion. She also secured second place in the elite invitational mile, an achievement that highlights her extraordinary dedication and talent against hundreds of competitors.

Reflecting on her success, Ellie shared:

“Winning the whole event was an incredible experience. I always strive to be the best I can be, and this weekend was a testament to that mantra.

“Every podium is special, and I’m so grateful to perform at this level.”

The Bermuda Triangle Challenge is known for its demanding schedule, with participants tackling multiple events over a short period.

Ellie’s ability to deliver consistent excellence across all three of her races in just three days was a true testament to her resilience and preparation.

“I take it one day at a time. My approach was simple: focus on each race as it comes, run the mile you’re in, and leave nothing behind. It’s an intense but deeply rewarding experience.”

The elite invitational mile, a fast-paced competitive event, was another standout moment for Ellie:

“The race is just fast and furious. There’s no time to think – you just go all out. I surprised myself by staying up front with the pack and securing second place. It was a true test of grit and muscle memory.”

Preparation Through Adversity

Ellie’s preparation for the event involved training through challenging conditions in the UK, where icy weather added an extra layer of difficulty to her regimen.

However, her mental and physical resilience shone through.

“Mentally, you just have to stay strong and focused. I simulated the challenges of the race in my training and worked closely with my dad and coach to ensure I was ready for anything the weekend would bring.

Ellie also mentioned how her Kukri apparel was vital throughout the event:

“I absolutely love my Kukri kit. It’s stylish, breathable, and perfect for the extreme humidity of the half marathon.

“It gave me confidence and pride to represent such a supportive brand.”

Looking Ahead to the Mesa Marathon

Ellie is now preparing to tackle her first-ever Mesa Marathon on 8 February 2024. This marks a new milestone in her career as she embraces the challenge of transitioning from shorter distances to the marathon.

“This is a big personal goal. Coming from a track background, moving into marathons has been a journey. I wanted to make sure I ready, and then make sure I did one in my 40th year.

“I love a challenge and want to be the best I can be. I know that I will leave no stone unturned and give it my best shot.”

Kukri is very proud to support Ellie on her journey and looks forward to cheering her on at the Mesa Marathon and beyond as she continues to Unleash Greatness.  

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.

CELEBRATING OUR THRIVING PARTNERSHIP WITH PHILLY HOCKEY CLUB

North America

Kukri Sports has been the official kit supplier for Philly Hockey club since 2012. Over the years, Kukri has consistently provided teams of all ages with high-quality custom-designed apparel, crafted from lightweight and breathable materials. These thoughtfully designed kits have not only enhanced the team’s performance and comfort on the pitch, but also helped elevate their presence and professionalism off the field.

By delivering superior sportswear that combines functionality with style, Kukri has played a vital role in supporting Philly Hockey Club’s growth and success throughout North America.

Based in the suburban Philadelphia area, Philly Hockey Club provide high levels of coaching across a wide range of ages, offering adult programmes, private lessons and group training as well as coaching to both boys and girls.

The coaching is available to players from beginner to advanced level, delivered in a competitive atmosphere which helps progress their athletes to high levels of tactical knowledge and technical skills.

Commenting on the successful partnership, Jamie Williams, Vice President at Kukri Sports North America, commented, “We are delighted to have been the sportswear supplier to Philly Hockey club since 2012, making them one of our longest-standing partners. The ability for us to provide a custom and unique identity has enabled the club to build a consistent brand identity.

“We are excited to be able to be part of this process, making some product and design suggestions that will continue to make the players look and feel their best on match day.”

Rennie Milne, Founder and Head Coach of Philly Hockey Club, said “We have been very happy with the continued development of the clothing lines over the years.

“We look forward to maintaining a great working relationship with Kukri for many years to come.”

More than a sportswear provider

Going beyond the role of a kit supplier, Kukri remains dedicated to being a true partner for Philly Hockey Club. The company will continue to collaborate closely with the club to develop custom designs that reflect the teams’ unique identity and traditions, making the players feel proud to step out onto the pitch.

We also continue to offer support for the club’s marketing and promotional initiatives, helping to further the exposure to the club’s programme and honourable legacy.

About Philly Hockey Club

Established in 2012 by Rennie Milne, Philly Hockey Club are based in the suburban Philadelphia area of United states. As a friend and family welcoming club, their vision is to continue introducing, developing and progressing athletes to high levels of tactical knowledge and technical skills to ensure they reach their highest levels.

The club have enjoyed many successes over the years, winning local, regional and national titles and leagues, including developing players that have gone on to play and study at prestigious university programmes across the USA.

A recent merger with Mystx Field Hockey Club has seen the development of the impressive Philly Sport Centre, a new year-round indoor training complex, which allows both staff and players being able to access programmes, tournaments, clinics and individual lessons.

As a committed partner, we are confident in the ongoing success of this partnership, helping their athletes to achieve greatness on and off the pitch.

Find out more about Philly Hockey Club.

Kukri partners with sports clubs worldwide, from grassroots teams to elite professional organisations. As well as America, our international presence spans across other key regions such as Europe, Asia and Australasia, catering to various sports such as rugby, cricket, netball, and field hockey. By providing custom-designed, high-performance apparel, Kukri helps athletes both excel and enhance their presence on and off the field.

Looking for a sportswear provider? Get in touch to see how we can help you today.

KUKRI SPORTS CELEBRATES SIGNIFICANT GROWTH & INNOVATION IN NORTH AMERICA

North America

Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate 16 years of substantial expansion and commitment in North America.

Since our first North America office opened in 2008, we have established a robust presence across multiple sectors, supporting athletes and teams with an extensive range of products for a wide variety of sports and multi-sports associations in the region.

Key successes & partnerships

Over the last decade, Kukri has emerged as a trusted partner to major sports teams and organisations, positioning ourselves as a market leader in North America.

We have been the official supplier for Team Canada in the 2018 and 2022 Commonwealth Games, and over the years we have proudly supported Special Olympics Canada and Special Olympics Ontario, showcasing our dedication to inclusivity and excellence in sports.

Support for different sports

Our partnerships with Field Hockey BC and Nova Scotia Rugby have thrived for over ten years. Additionally, we support National and Provincial Teams across various sports including Volleyball, Swimming, Gymnastics, and Soccer.

The education market accounts for approximately 50% of our business in North America, with notable partnerships such as Meadowridge, Crofton House, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, Algonquin College, Trafalgary Castle School and Toronto French School.

Our partner, UBC Women’s Rugby team, has enjoyed great successes over recent years, winning their fourth consecutive Canada West Rugby 15s Championship in 2023.

Click here to find out more about our partners.

Kit development

Innovation in kit development continues to be the cornerstone of our strategy. Our focus in the region remains on expanding the reach of our newly-developed sustainable product range, which has already gained traction in the education sector from partner schools and universities.

Expanding our scope of supply

We serve partners from coast to coast across Canada and the U.S, and we are expanding our footprint in the Caribbean. From small orders of ten items to large-scale orders of thousands of units, we are dedicated to helping you achieve in your sport.

Community engagement

Beyond elite sportswear, we also collaborate with our partners to ensure athletes feel empowered off the pitch. We proudly sponsor local partner teams, along with scholarship programmes in the education sector that encourages academic excellence, as well as promoting a ‘pay it forward’ culture among athletes to help sports grow across North America.

Looking ahead

As evidenced by our significant profit growth year on year, our services in North America continue to go from strength to strength.

With the 2026 Commonwealth Games on the horizon, we are actively working with partners to ensure successful kit development and delivery. We are also focused on fulfilling orders for Sport Newfoundland athletes who will be participating in the upcoming 2025 Canada Games.

Jamie Williams, Vice President for Kukri Sports in North America, said “At Kukri Sports North America, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional products and services that empower athletes.

“Our commitment to innovation, sustainability and strong partnerships reflects our passion for sports and our drive to support the sporting community across the region.”

From our origins in the United Kingdom, we have continued to expand our global footprint over recent years, establishing a strong presence in key regions worldwide, including most recently Saudi Arabia, China and South Africa.

We also have offices in regions such as Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland and the Middle East.

Get in touch

Get in touch today to learn how Kukri Sports can support your athletic journey with tailored solutions that enhance performance and comfort across a wide range of sports.