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Unbeaten Kukri Ambassador Kieran Molloy Targets Another Statement Win

United Kingdom

Unbeaten in his professional career, Kukri Sports ambassador Kieran Molloy enters the ring in Brighton on Friday 21st November, ready to make another statement.

Last time out, he produced a stunning third-round TKO victory over Nourdeen Toure, a performance that left fans and pundits taking notice of his skill, power, and composure.

The exciting Irishman is set for his next fight on the Wasserman ‘Point to Prove’ undercard against Zeuz Varguez Soberanis, a fighter known for his toughness and Mexican grit.

“These Mexicans come to win, they are tough as nails. I feel well prepared… I don’t see him bringing anything to the table that I haven’t seen before. I’m well prepared, training twice a day and just ready to fight now.”

Built on Intensity and Preparation

Kieran’s training camp has been rigorous, focusing on refining technique, sharpening strategy, and enhancing his natural power.

“We train to knock people out in this gym; there are never any stones left unturned. We’re going to keep it clean in the fight early doors, but once we smell blood, we’re going to go for it.”

Physically and mentally, Kieran feels in peak condition after recently moving training camps and working under his new coach.

“I’m in a great place at the moment with boxing, so I just want to keep that momentum and keep on growing,” he said.

I’m improving all the time; it’s a fresh start, and I’m loving it while adding a lot to my game. I feel like I’m another step closer to grabbing those titles.”

With this being his final eight-round fight before stepping into ten-round title fights in the new year, every punch and round carries significance.

“Securing the win and looking strong in this fight is important; it’ll be another step toward those titles.”

The Journey That Built Him

Kieran’s rise isn’t just about professional success – it’s a story shaped by family, mentorship, dedication, and defining moments. He shared three photos that have captured his journey so far.

Photo 1: With My Grandad – The First Believer

“A picture with my granddad at the Connaught Tribune Sports Awards. He was my number one supporter and was always so proud of my achievements.”

Photo 2: The Day I Signed Professional

“A picture with my family after signing a professional deal. They have supported me so much and are my biggest motivation.”

Photo 3: My First Senior Elite National Title

“This was captured moments after winning my first senior elite national title. My dad coached me from five years old in preparation for that night. I was the first ever senior champion from the Oughterard Boxing Club.”

Onwards to Brighton

As a proud Kukri ambassador, Kieran carries not just skill and power into the Brighton ring, but the weight of a journey built on family, mentors, and relentless determination.

With an unbeaten record and a highlight-reel TKO behind him, all eyes will be on Molloy as he writes the next chapter of his remarkable rise.

Bello Brothers Set to Make History at Beach Volleyball World Championships

United Kingdom

Kukri Sports are proud to celebrate their ambassadors, Javier and Joaquin Bello, as they prepare to make history by becoming the first British male pair to qualify for and compete in the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships.

The event takes place in Adelaide, Australia from 14-23 November, bringing together the world’s best teams for the most prestigious tournament in beach volleyball.

The milestone marks another special chapter in the Bello Brothers’ inspiring journey, from winning Team England’s first-ever Commonwealth Games beach volleyball medal when they claimed bronze in 2022, to becoming the first ever British players to win an elite international beach volleyball event.

“This is the most important milestone in our journey so far and one that reflects the consistent hard work from our whole team, family and supporters,” they said.

“To be the first in our country’s history makes it an even greater honour, and we are beyond excited to be competing against the best teams in the world at the biggest event in our sport.”

A Journey Built on Family, Grit and Growth

The Bellos’ story began when they first picked up a volleyball at six years old, inspired by their father and driven by a shared dream.

“Their support has been the foundation of our journey, guiding us through many years of consistent training and great achievements throughout the Pro Tour, European Championships and Commonwealth Games.”

That perseverance was especially vital during the early days of their career.

“At the beginning, we had very little support and struggled our way through tough winters training in London, often alone, with no prospect of ever achieving our dream of competing with the best in the world.

“Alongside a few injuries, the biggest challenge has always been overcoming our circumstances – but it has also been a source of great pride and motivation.”

Preparing for the World Stage

Now, as they head to Adelaide, the brothers’ focus is on performing at their best and continuing to elevate British beach volleyball on the global stage.

“We’ve been recovering from a long stretch of competitions and recently went through a few weeks of intense training to get back to 100%.

“The main goal is to be competitive in every match and give ourselves the opportunity to make the deep run we’re capable of.”

Driving the Growth of Volleyball in the UK

Kukri’s partnership with the Bello Brothers forms part of the brand’s wider commitment to supporting volleyball at every level.

As the official kit supplier to Volleyball England, Kukri provides bespoke, high-performance kit across the sport.

By equipping national teams and athletes like the Bellos, Kukri continues to play a key role in growing the sport’s profile and helping British players perform at their best on the world stage.

“Kukri has been a big part of our team since the 2022 Commonwealth Games,” the brothers said.

“We’re really proud of our partnership and grateful to count on their support as we continue our career towards bigger and bigger goals.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

For Javier and Joaquin, competing at the upcoming World Championships is about more than personal achievement, it’s about inspiring others to follow.

“Our family was always our biggest inspiration, and we also had players like Emanuel & Ricardo who we grew up watching and idolising.

“It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come and the inspiration that young players are now getting from us, especially in the UK where we’re helping to drive the growth of beach volleyball.”

From south-west London to competing against the world’s best, Javier and Joaquin Bello are not only making history, they’re shaping the future of their sport.

Black History Month Athlete Spotlight: Netball Star Samantha Wallace-Joseph

United Kingdom

This Black History Month, Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate athletes who inspire, empower and redefine what excellence looks like.

One such athlete is Samantha (Sammy) Wallace-Joseph, goal shooter for Loughborough Lightning.

In her debut season with Lightning, Sammy scored 272 goals, helping the team reach their fifth consecutive grand final and finishing as the club’s top scorer.

Kukri is proud to provide Loughborough Lightning’s official playing and training wear, supporting Sammy and the team both on and off the court.

From Grassroots to the Global Stage

Sammy’s netball journey began at school, nurtured by mentors who recognised her talent early.

“I first started playing netball at school level when I was six years old. A teacher saw potential and supported my every step of the way,” she recalls.

Her dedication led her to her first senior national team call-up at just 14 years old, and eventually to a professional career in Australia before returning to the UK with Lightning.

Her career has been defined not only by talent but also by resilience. She has overcome being far from home, personal loss and injury.

“Despite the challenges, I could always hear my Dad’s voice reminding me, ‘Don’t give up.’ Those words became my source of strength and motivation through the hardest times.”

Life with Loughborough Lightning

Since joining Lightning, Sammy has become a key player and role model.

Despite missing the start to the 2025 Netball Super League season due to surgery, she regained her rhythm and was recognised as ‘Fans’ Player of the Year’.

“I truly enjoyed interacting with the fans. Those sweaty post-game cuddles brought me so much more comfort and joy. Knowing I can be someone they look up to and aspire to be like means the world to me.”

Reflecting on the season, she adds “Although I wasn’t pleased with my shooting percentage, I was grateful to pull on a Loughborough Lightning dress and play in front of such a supportive crowd every week.”

Looking ahead, Sammy’s focus is on staying healthy and helping Lightning go one step further. “My hopes for the 2026 season are simple – to stay healthy and injury-free.

“For my team, I hope we continue to trust the process and take things one step at a time.”

Celebrating Black Glory

For Sammy, Black History Month is about recognising achievement, resilience and excellence within the black community, not just struggles.

“We often talk about black history but rarely about black glory,” she explains.

“By promoting education and awareness, other cultures can gain a deeper understanding of both the past and present moments that have shaped our society.

“This understanding helps build empathy, fight racism and strengthen our grasp of identity and diversity.

“Black History Month isn’t just about celebrating triumphs – it’s about recognising challenges, honouring resilience and appreciating success.”

Kukri’s Commitment Beyond Black History Month

As the official partner of Loughborough Lightning, Kukri is proud to support athletes and individuals like Sammy, championing their achievements and celebrating the inspiration they bring both on and off the court.

While Black History Month is an important moment to highlight these stories, Kukri’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion continues all year round – helping to drive change, encourage participation and celebrate representation.

To learn more about our support, visit here.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT: TALENTED RUGBY SCHOOL STUDENT JORDAN

United Kingdom

This Black History Month, we’re celebrating athletes who inspire, break barriers and champion representation in sport.

Through our long-standing partnership with Rugby School, Kukri Sports provides bespoke performance and training wear, supporting student-athletes like Jordan in reaching their full potential on and off the pitch.

Jordan’s journey from local clubs in Coventry to Northampton Saints Academy is a testament to dedication, resilience and leadership.

From Grassroots to the Academy

Jordan’s rugby journey began at just five years old at Wasps FC, inspired by his rugby-mad family.

“My dad took me down, and I naturally never looked back. Rugby has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember,” he says.

He continued his development at Barkers Butts in Coventry, playing every Sunday from U9s to U16s.

“My club coaches at Barkers Butts have influenced my development massively, with them seeing me grow as a rugby player and a person from the age of 9 to 16,” he explained.

“The coaches challenged me throughout the years to not only be a good rugby player, but also a good person which has been one of the most important factors in my progress.”

Rugby School’s Impact

Being part of Rugby School’s prestigious rugby programme has been pivotal for Jordan’s development.

“Every day there are opportunities to get better, from strength and conditioning sessions to 1-1 skill coaching.

“This constant access has been vital for my progress,” he explains.

Representing the school on the pitch also carries personal significance for Jordan. “It means everything. Seeing all the hard work they put in to make our experience the best possible motivates you to give everything for the school on the pitch.”

Balancing Sport and Academics

Jordan manages his rugby commitments alongside his studies through structured study sessions, academic clinics and careful weekly planning.

“Teachers are understanding and provide reasonable support if I have to miss a lesson due to rugby.

“Balancing has taught me time management and discipline.”

Reflections on Black History Month

Born in South Africa, Jordan sees Black History Month as a time to recognise resilience and celebrate the achievements of black individuals globally.

“I’ve come to appreciate how sport, particularly rugby, can serve as a way to unify people and put aside any differences people may have.

“It inspires me to play with purpose, to uplift my teammates and to advocate for inclusivity in sports.”

Career Ambitions

Looking ahead, Jordan aims to earn a professional contract with Northampton Saints or continue playing at BUCS level for a university.

“Rugby School prepares you for professional environments by offering opportunities to improve every day and develop a professional mindset.”

Standing Firm in Power and Pride

Jordan’s story is one of dedication, resilience and growth – a journey from grassroots rugby to elite pathways, shaped by mentors, perseverance and purpose.

We’re proud to celebrate and support athletes like Jordan, whose achievements on and off the pitch embody the spirit of Black History Month – standing firm in power and pride.

Black History Month Athlete Spotlight: University of Derby’s Tshila Munyai

United Kingdom

This Black History Month, we’re spotlighting athletes who are defying expectations and inspiring progress in their sport, in the classroom and beyond.

For Tshila Munyai, a University of Derby performance scholar and rising track cyclist, sport has been more than competition – it’s been a story of recovery, resilience and relentless ambition.

As the official kit supplier for the University of Derby, Kukri Sports provides high-quality, bespoke performance wear for competition, training and leisurewear, including the university’s performance scholarship programme, which helps athletes like Tshila pursue their sporting and academic goals.

From recovering from a major injury at 15 to winning gold at the 2024 South African National Track Championships and joining Derby’s prestigious cycling programme, Tshila’s journey is one of opportunity, determination and drive.

Finding His Way to the Track

Tshila’s path to cycling began in unexpected circumstances.

“I suffered an ACL injury and underwent reconstructive surgery.

“During my rehab, I used my dad’s road bike and trained in the gym to rebuild my strength. Over time, I developed a strong interest in powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting, and I was fairly strong and loved pushing my limits.”

During COVID-19 lockdown, the South-African born athlete organised a virtual charity ride with Ride for Unity, an experience that deepened his love for the sport.

“I joined a cycling team to improve my skills, and it was there I was encouraged to give track cycling a shot – and I’ve been riding in circles ever since.”

Rising Through the Ranks

In just four years, Tshila has gone from a complete newcomer to one of the top three ranked cyclists in Africa, competing internationally and medalling at major events.

“Track cycling has opened so many opportunities,” he explained.

“It’s taken me around the world, allowed me to race against the best and meet incredible people along the way.”

That perseverance paid off at the 2024 South African National Track Championships, where he won gold in the team sprint.

“Winning that gold was incredibly meaningful. It represented the culmination of recovering from injury, starting a brand-new sport and finally achieving success.”

From South Africa to the UK

After years of competing provincially and nationally, Tshila made the move to the UK to pursue both his academic and sporting ambitions.

“My transition from South Africa to the UK has been fairly smooth, thanks to the amazing support system I have here.

“The University’s performance scholarship has been fantastic. It’s allowed me to train like a full-time cyclist while continuing my studies. The strength and conditioning support, workshops and flexibility make it possible to perform at a high level both on and off the track.”

Motivation and Mindset

For Tshila, family remains his greatest source of motivation.

“Without my parents, none of this would be possible. I’m so appreciative of how much they believe in me and the sacrifices they’ve made.”

He also credits his love for structure and discipline, qualities that cross over between cycling and engineering.

“The dedication needed in cycling has made me more proactive in my studies. I prepare for exams just like I prepare for races.”

Representation and Legacy

Coming from South Africa, Tshila brings a unique and powerful perspective to Black History Month.

“Back home, we celebrate Heritage Day, which recognises the diverse cultures that make up our ‘Rainbow Nation’,” he explained.

“I see Black History Month as an important time to acknowledge and celebrate diversity across all areas of life – including sport and culture.”

Looking ahead, the talented track cyclist hopes to continue inspiring others while pursuing his dreams.

“I want to show people that it’s possible to chase big goals even when the odds aren’t in your favour.

“My aim is to represent South Africa at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, graduate with my engineering degree and compete at the 2028 LA Olympics.”

Standing Firm in Power and Pride

From overcoming adversity to representing his nation, Tshila Munyai’s story is one of resilience, gratitude and growth.

His journey reflects not only personal achievement but also the broader power of sport to unite, uplift and inspire.

We’re proud to celebrate and support athletes like Tshila, whose passion and purpose embody the spirit of Black History Month — standing firm in power and pride.

Black History Month Athlete Spotlight: GB Triple Jumper Deshawn Lascelles

United Kingdom

This Black History Month, we’re shining a light on athletes who are pushing boundaries, inspiring their communities and redefining what success looks like both on and off the field.

One of those athletes is Deshawn Lascelles, a rising triple jumper from Loughborough University, whose journey from grassroots competitions to representing Great Britain at this year’s World University Games reflects dedication, resilience and purpose.

Finding his Stride

Deshawn’s passion for athletics began long before he ever stepped onto the track.

“Growing up in a Jamaican household, athletics was always on in my house. Watching greats like Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake and Elaine Thompson inspired me.

“My love for athletics was fostered from a young age by my parents cheering our national heroes,” he explains.

While he played several sports growing up including football and basketball, one moment stood out.

“I used to play basketball, and I was really fast but also springy. I remember being smaller than the other players, but when they would go for a shot I would spring up and swat it out of the air and everyone would be surprised. That’s what drew me to jumps specifically.”

A Journey of Grit and Growth

Starting out triple jump at age 14 at a local and county level, Deshawn made early waves on the national scene.

“At 16, I had a huge breakthrough year – breaking a couple of records and finishing the indoor season ranked 11th in the world on the U18 rankings,” he recalls.

Despite this, his road to elite competition wasn’t easy.

“I had many years of injury problems. Overcoming those challenges took everything, but it made earning my first GB Vest at 22 at the World University Games even more meaningful.”

His debut at the Games in Germany marked a proud milestone, both mentally and physically.

“It felt so refreshing. When I got the call, I told my mum and she literally started jumping with joy – I’d never seen her that excited.

“Given all the setbacks, it was such a reward to finally wear the vest.”

Mindset and Motivation

Deshawn credits his family, particularly his parents, as his biggest inspiration that have enabled him to get to this stage.

“My parents wrapped me up in a blanket when I was one and came to the UK to start from scratch.

“The setbacks that they had to endure pushes me to keep going knowing that I come from such strong characters. They are both my biggest motivators, along with my younger sister, who’s my dedicated videographer at events.”

Balancing Life at Loughborough

Alongside training and competing, Deshawn is completing a degree in Human Biology at Loughborough University, while also running a small custom shoe business.

“It’s a lot, but I don’t mind being busy. I enjoy my degree, so it doesn’t feel like work.”

Looking ahead, he is focused on growth in his first senior season.

“This year, with my dissertation and graduation, I’m keeping my goals simple – to jump 16 metres consistently and secure a place on the European circuit.

“Long term, I’m aiming to represent Great Britain at the 2028 Olympics in LA.”

Representation, Reflection and Responsibility

For Deshawn, Black History Month is about gratitude and action.

“It’s about honouring the people who broke barriers, like Marcus Garvey and Bob Marley, but also continuing their legacy.

“Things are better than they were, but we can’t be complacent. It’s about following their example, pushing forward in my own field, creating opportunities and inspiring others to do the same.”

Deshawn also hopes to use his platform to educate and empower others.

“I want to help young black athletes understand and take pride in the unique qualities that shape their journey.

“Through both science and experience, I’ve learned how certain traits common in black populations can be natural advantages – but they also need tailored training and recovery.”

Standing Firm in Power and Pride

Deshawn Lascelles’ story is one of perseverance, purpose and pride – a reminder that representation in sport is about more than medals or personal bests. It’s also about education, resilience and inspiring others to believe in their potential.

We’re proud to celebrate, support and stand alongside athletes like Deshawn whose achievements, on and off the runway, embody the spirit of Black History Month – standing firm in power and pride.  

BLACK HISTORY MONTH ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT: ENGLAND LACROSSE’S ANNABELLE AKINTOYE

United Kingdom

As Black History Month progresses, we continue to celebrate athletes who are breaking barriers, inspiring others and shaping the future of their sport.

Annabelle Akintoye made history as the first Black woman to captain an England team at a major lacrosse tournament, leading the England senior women’s box team to fifth at the inaugural 2024 World Lacrosse Box Championships.

As proud partners of England Lacrosse, Kukri Sports supplies bespoke playing and training wear to all national squads and academies, fuelling the performances of athletes like Annabelle at the highest level.

Finding Passion and Purpose

Annabelle’s journey into the sport began at a young age when she was at school.

“I started playing at Queen Anne’s School when I was 11 years old. It was completely new to me; I had only played netball and hockey before moving there.

“I loved lacrosse because it combined all the things I enjoyed about other sports into one action-packed game, and that’s still the same 18 years later!”

Breaking Barriers

Annabelle, who plays as a defender, reflects on her historic role in the squad as one of the first two black players to play for an England women’s team in any format.

“It felt phenomenal, but also a little shocking! Sharing the honour with Davina Emetulu was an unforgettable experience.

“It also reminded me that there’s still work to do to break down barriers and create opportunities for others to enjoy the sport.”

Captaining England at the tournament in the USA was a moment she will never forget.

“It’s still something I’m processing over a year later. Having my parents in the stands in those famous custom shirts made it even more special – the perfect full-circle moment.”

Standing Firm in Power and Pride

Black History Month is an important time for Annabelle to reflect on representation and progress in sport.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to highlight the incredible talent within the Black community, learn from the history of our sport, and show how much more we can still do.

“Lowering barriers for black athletes and other people of colour is something I’m passionate about.”

Annabelle also stressed the need for ongoing celebration and action.

“Celebrating black history and culture shouldn’t just happen once a year. It should inspire action in national governing bodies, schools and community programmes – honouring the past while building a more inclusive future.”

Eyes on the Future

Looking ahead, Annabelle is focused on the 2026 European Box Championship, the first-ever women’s European box event.

“After our strong showing at Worlds, we’ve set our sights on bringing home a gold medal.

“Beyond that, I want to keep helping the game grow – both as an athlete and on the business side – and continue creating spaces for more to get involved.”

A Message to the Next Generation

Annabelle has powerful advice for young Black athletes:

“You are often your own biggest critic — don’t let that stop you from giving it a go. Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard, and you have both, so go for it!

“Also remember, no one achieves success alone. Lean on your community, your family, your teammates, your coaches. I wouldn’t be where I am without the people who’ve lifted me up along the way.”

Annabelle Akintoye’s journey is a story of trailblazing leadership, resilience, and representation — proof that success is as much about creating opportunities and uplifting others as it is about personal achievement.

We’re proud to celebrate athletes like Annabelle, whose accomplishments on and off the floor embody the spirit of Black History Month — Standing Firm in Power and Pride.

OUR COMMITMENT TO REDEFINING PERFORMANCE IN PARA-SPORTS

United Kingdom

At Kukri Sports, performance has never been one size fits all, it’s about passion, determination and the belief that every athlete deserves kit that helps them perform at their best.

Through our ongoing para-sports campaign, we’re celebrating the achievements of incredible athletes, shining a light on their stories and showcasing the design innovation that ensures accessibility and excellence go hand in hand.

Proud Partners in Performance

From grassroots initiatives to elite competition, Kukri has long stood alongside teams and organisations championing inclusion in sport.

Our partnerships span a wide range of para-sports disciplines, from British Wheelchair Basketball and para-athletics to wheelchair racing, mixed ability rugby and fencing.

In the last year, 25 Kukri-affiliated athletes competed at the Paralympic Games, collectively bringing home 35 medals.

Working closely with universities, national governing bodies and grassroots teams around the world, we’re proud to supply kit that doesn’t just look the part, but feels right, fights comfortably and enables athletes to perform under pressure.

Athlete Voices: Designed to Empower

For para-athletes, the right kit can make a world of difference and ensure freedom of movement, comfort and confidence.

“The England vests and t-shirts, designed by Kukri, are really comfortable which make me feel my most confident whether I’m competing or training,” said Amy Thompson, Kukri Sports ambassador and F41 para shot-put athlete.

“The design on the kit is also really nice, it gives me a nice reminder that I am representing my country and makes me feel honoured.”

Ingrid Schurr, a women’s rugby player for Oshawa Vikings who competed in this year’s International Mixed Ability Rugby tournament, said “The kit from Kukri united us as a whole team and in my case the vision impaired features helped me track better on the field.

“They were also built in so it just looked like a cool design as opposed to a vision impaired add on. That really helped me to feel included and valued.”

Innovation Meets Inclusion

Designing kit for para-sport requires adaptability and technical precision. At Kukri, we approach every kit with the goal of supporting performance through inclusive engineering.

Our para-sports ranges are developed in close collaboration with athletes themselves, from initial designs to on-field testing, ensuring every detail is informed by real performance needs.

Our experience designing for Team England, where we designed and supplied kit for over 2,500 athletes across 19 different sports at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, laid the foundation for this approach.

The design process involved input from 23 athletes across a range of sports to ensure the specific needs and preferences of the competitors were met.

That same collaborative process now drives our para-sport innovation. For sports such as wheelchair basketball and racing, we’ve introduced shorter back panels, seamless side seams and anti-slip materials to reduce friction and enhance stability.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Our commitment to para-sports extends beyond sportswear. By supporting para teams and sharing their stories, we hope to inspire the next generation of athletes to see possibility instead of limitation.

Whether it’s introducing new sustainable materials, refining patterns or creating adaptable solutions, our para-sport innovation continues to shape the future of sports all over the world.

Beyond Limits. Together.

For more information on how we can support you, get in touch.

Black History Month Athlete Spotlight: GB Rower Vwairé Obukohwo

United Kingdom

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.