Tag: World News

27/06/202418/06/2024

As we continue to shed a light on the dynamic sports we support at Kukri Sports we are focussing on Fencing, the centuries-old art of swordsmanship, is more than just a relic of historical combat; it is a dynamic sport that combines agility, strategy, and precision. Fencing is a unique discipline that sharpens both body and mind. Whether you’re a budding athlete or someone looking to try something new, fencing offers a challenging yet rewarding experience.

What is Fencing?

Fencing is a sport that involves two competitors facing off with swords, aiming to score points by making contact with their opponent in designated target areas. There are three main types of weapons used in fencing, each with its own rules and techniques:

• Foil: A light thrusting weapon that targets the torso. Points are scored by hitting the opponent with the tip of the blade.
• Epee: Similar to the foil but heavier, with the entire body as the target area. Points are scored with the tip of the blade.
• Sabre: A light cutting and thrusting weapon where points can be scored with the edge of the blade, targeting everything above the waist.

Why Choose Fencing?

Fencing is often described as physical chess. It requires quick thinking, strategic planning, and lightning-fast reflexes. The sport enhances cardiovascular health, improves coordination, and builds strength. Moreover, it instills discipline, focus, and a deep respect for the opponent.

Getting Started in Fencing

For those interested in getting into fencing, starting is simpler than you might think. Here are some steps to guide you:

Find a Local Club: Look for fencing clubs in your area. Many clubs offer beginner classes, which are perfect for those with no prior experience.

Attend a Class: Most clubs provide introductory sessions where you can learn the basics of footwork, blade work, and the rules of the game.

Get the Right Gear: Initially, clubs often provide equipment for beginners. As you progress, investing in personal gear is beneficial.

Practice Regularly: Like any sport, regular practice is key to improvement. Attend classes consistently and practice at home if possible.

Join Competitions: Once you’re comfortable with the basics, participating in competitions can greatly enhance your skills and experience.

How Kukri Can Support

Equipping yourself with the right sportswear is crucial in fencing, not just for performance but also for safety. This is where Kukri Sports comes in. Known for their high-quality sports apparel, Kukri Sports provides fencing enthusiasts with top-tier sportswear designed for comfort, flexibility, and protection.

Kukri is a proud to partner with British Fencing, aimed at enhancing the experience for fencers across the UK. This partnership includes the supply of a full range of training and leisurewear.

Conclusion

Fencing is more than a sport; it’s a journey into a world of tradition, skill, and personal growth. Whether you’re interested in the elegance of the movements or the thrill of the duel, fencing has something to offer everyone. With the support of Kukri Sports and their collaboration with British Fencing, you can embark on this adventure fully equipped and ready to excel. So, why wait? Pick up a sword, step onto the piste, and discover the exhilarating world of fencing today.

17/06/202414/06/2024

In a world where mainstream sports often take precedence, Kukri Sports stands firm in its belief that every sport, regardless of its level of exposure, deserves recognition and support. Our commitment to championing sports seen as ‘niche’ extends beyond merely providing apparel; it’s about enriching the global sports culture and ensuring that every athlete has the opportunity to showcase their talents.

Our partnerships with organisations such as England Lacrosse, British Fencing, British Wheelchair Basketball, and Pickleball Ireland exemplify our dedication to inclusivity and excellence. Through these collaborations, we offer tailored support to each sport, ranging from designing specialised apparel to sponsoring events and initiatives that promote growth and participation.

England Lacrosse benefits from our collaboration in its development across all levels, from grassroots to elite competition, ensuring that players have the necessary resources for success. British Fencing and British Wheelchair Basketball receive our commitment to inclusivity through customised apparel that enhances performance and aligns with the unique demands of each sport. Pickleball Ireland, with its growing community, is also fully supported in nurturing the sport and equipping players with high-quality sportswear tailored to their specific needs.

At Kukri Sports, inclusivity is ingrained in our ethos. We firmly believe that every athlete, irrespective of their sport’s mainstream popularity, deserves the opportunity to pursue their passion and realize their aspirations. Through our innovative sportswear and steadfast support, we are broadening the horizons for niche sports and fostering a more inclusive and diverse sporting community.

Join us as we continue to dismantle barriers and celebrate the passion, dedication, and diversity that define sports. Together, let’s ensure that every athlete, regardless of their chosen sport, has the platform to shine. At Kukri Sports, we take pride in supporting athletes in their quest for excellence.

Your Sport. Your Team. Your Design

At Kukri Sports, we support athletes across over 100 different sports worldwide. From cricket to rugby, hockey, netball athletics, and niche sports, our customisable apparel is designed to enhance performance and fit your unique needs

With Kukri Sports, you’ll find the gear you need to succeed, no matter your sport – Get In Touch

11/06/202411/06/2024

In today’s competitive sporting landscape, team unity is more crucial than ever.

At Kukri Sports, we understand that the foundation of any successful team is unity. Team unity fosters a sense of belonging, enhances communication and drives collective performance.

It’s not just about individuals performing at their best but about coming together to achieve a common goal. Whether on the field, court, or track, the power of unity cannot be overstated, and we’re committed to helping you feel part of a team and achieving maximum performance.

The Role of Sportswear in Team Unity

Sportswear plays a critical role in building and maintaining team unity. Coordinated and high-quality sportswear helps athletes feel part of something bigger than themselves. It instils pride, encourages a professional attitude, and boosts morale. When athletes wear the same sportswear, they are reminded that they are in this together, ready to face challenges as one cohesive unit.

Supporting teams every step of the way

We are dedicated to providing exceptional support for teams through our comprehensive range of sportswear and services. Our offerings are designed to meet the unique needs of every team, from amateur clubs to professional teams and National Governing Bodies in Cricket, Rugby, Netball, Hockey, Gymnastics and many more.

Our sportswear inspires athletes and teams to flourish around the world, from Somerset CCC winning the Vitality Blast and Loughborough Lightning being crowned Netball Super League Champions, to Cork Con winning the All-Ireland League and Hong Kong China men winning the inaugural Melrose Claymores tournament at this year’s HK7s.

Our sportswear is crafted from high-quality materials that offer durability, comfort and performance. We use advanced fabric technology to ensure that our gear can withstand the intense demands of training and competition, helping athletes perform at their best.

Our commitment to team unity and quality sportswear has earned us the trust and loyalty of numerous teams worldwide.

“The attention to detail in their products is evident, and our athletes across all age groups have benefitted greatly from the comfortable and durable uniforms provided by Kukri.” – Peter Houlihan, Director of Rugby Operations at Rugby Alberta.

“From the initial design concepts to the final delivery, the Kukri team has demonstrated a genuine dedication to understanding our unique needs and preferences.” – Debbie Skene, Director of Sport at Rugby School.

“Their commitment to quality, paired with the unwavering support offered to Welsh Gymnastics, makes Kukri Sports a standout choice for our athletes and the entire gymnastics community.” – Holly Broad, Executive Director for performance at Welsh Gymnastics.

Your trusted sportswear supplier

We’re more than just a sportswear brand, we’re a passionate team dedicated to helping you achieve your full potential by fostering a sense of unity and pride when you step out to represent your team.

31/05/202428/05/2024

In the world of sports, where the spotlight shines on the stars, it’s the unseen dedication and expertise that truly powers every performance. Join us as we peel back the layers and delve into what happens “behind the seams,” spotlighting the craftsmanship that fuels our passion for bespoke sportswear.

For 25 years, Kukri Sports has been a pioneer in sportswear innovation, but our true essence lies in the craftsmanship woven into every fiber of our business.

At the core of our operations is a customer-focused team, each a specialist in their role. From visionary designers who create impressive designs to precision pattern-makers who translate these concepts into tangible form, every stitch stands as a testament to their expertise. It’s an intricate operation where each thread weaves a narrative of our steadfast dedication to excellence.

But we’re not just about crafting apparel; we’re about empowering athletes to soar. Recognising that every sport, team, and athlete is unique, we tailor our solutions with precision. Through cutting-edge technology and a profound understanding of performance, we create bespoke sportswear that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s a jersey built for durability, a kit designed for aerodynamics, or a uniform optimised for agility, our custom-made sportswear is a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence.

But our journey doesn’t end in the factory. We thrive on collaboration and partnerships, listening intently to the needs of sporting institutions and co-creating to bring their visions to life. It’s a bond of trust and fueled by a shared passion—a journey where we grow together.

As we look ahead, our commitment remains steadfast. We’re constantly pushing boundaries, exploring new materials, and pioneering techniques to redefine the future of sportswear. Yet, amidst the progress being made, one thing remains unchanged: our unwavering dedication to athletes.

Behind every victory, there’s a story—a testament to the individual spirit of those who dream of success. At Kukri Sports, we’re honored to support these stories, weaving our legacy behind the seams of sporting greatness. Join us on this exhilarating journey where craftsmanship meets passion, and together, let’s elevate the game to new heights and unleash greatness.

21/05/202421/05/2024

This year, Kukri Sports celebrates 25 years of innovation and dedication to the global sporting community.

For 25 years, we have improved athletes’ performance and style across various sports, building strong global partnerships with educational institutions, national governing bodies, and professional clubs. These relationships have established us as a leading supplier of multi-sports sportswear, empowering communities and individuals in their sporting endeavours.

Supporting a wide range of sports

We play a pivotal role in supporting athletes across a wide range of sports, including Rugby, Cricket, Netball, Athletics, Gymnastics, and Hockey.

Over the years, we have been the official partner and merchandise supplier for prestigious events and teams such as the Hong Kong Sevens, Waikato Rugby and Team Canada.

Our expansion into various sports reflects our commitment to meeting athletes’ evolving needs, evidenced by partnerships with England Athletics and England Lacrosse, as well as British Fencing and British Wrestling, who we partnered with in 2022.

Last year, we expanded our support to the Barbados Olympic Association, and this year, we announced a new partnership with Pickleball Ireland, providing support for the inaugural Pickleball Ireland National Championships which saw over 500 pickleball enthusiasts compete.

Innovative Kit Developments

We have continuously pushed boundaries in kit development, producing and sourcing over 13 million garments to partners across the globe.

We develop innovative solutions to help athletes perform their best, from moisture-wicking fabrics to advanced temperature control.

Our commitment to ongoing improvement extends to sustainability, prioritizing the use of eco-friendly materials in all our sportswear. Our sustainable range, launched in 2021, integrates eco-friendly production processes, ensuring durability change, making our sportswear suitable for athletes across a variety of sports. Find out more here.

Expanding our global presence

From our origins in the United Kingdom, we have expanded our reach over the past 25 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 and New Zealand, Canada and Ireland and the Middle East.

Reflecting on a significant milestone for the business, Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports, said “Celebrating 25 years of Kukri Sports fills us with immense pride. From our start producing bespoke teamwear since 1999, our mission to empower athletes remains unchanged. This milestone reflects the dedication of our team, partners, and the athletes who trust Kukri. We look forward to continuing innovating, expanding, and making a positive impact on sports worldwide.”

Celebrating 25 Years of Sporting Excellence

As we commemorate our 25th year anniversary, we look forward to the next chapter of innovation, collaboration, and sporting excellence. With a legacy built on passion and performance, we remain dedicated to empowering athletes to participate in sport and reach new heights, regardless of their ability, age or gender.

25/03/202419/03/2024

As a leading bespoke sportswear provider for the last 25 years, Kukri Sports is embarking on an exciting journey of expansion into new territories, including Saudi Arabia, China and South Africa. With a strong presence already established in Canada, Ireland, the UK, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, Kukri is well-equipped to extend its global reach and offer unparalleled support to athletes, clubs, and educational providers in these dynamic regions.

In regions like Saudi Arabia, where sports participation is experiencing significant growth and diversification, Kukri’ expansion promises to meet the rising demand for high-quality sportswear. By offering personalized design consultations, efficient logistics, and distribution channels, Kukri ensures that athletes in Saudi Arabia have access to apparel that not only meets their performance needs but also reflects their unique identity and aspirations.

Similarly, in South Africa, a country renowned for its passionate sports culture and rich sporting heritage, Kukri’s entry into the market opens doors for local clubs and schools to access world-class sportswear solutions. By understanding the specific challenges and aspirations of the South African sporting community, Kukri Sports is well-positioned to provide tailored support that facilitates growth and success at all levels of the sports ecosystem.

“I am thrilled by Kukri Sports’ expansion into Saudi Arabia, China and South Africa. Our commitment to excellence and passion for empowering athletes transcend borders, and we are excited to bring our top-quality sportswear and unwavering support to these dynamic regions, fostering growth and success at every level of the sporting community.” – Andrew Ronnie, CEO of Kukri Sports

As Kukri Sports continues to push boundaries and expand its reach into new frontiers, one thing remains constant: their unwavering dedication to excellence and their belief in the transformative power of sport. In Saudi Arabia, China, South Africa, and beyond, Kukri Sports is not just outfitting athletes; they’re shaping the future of sports and inspiring a new generation of champions across continents.

14/03/202414/03/2024

In the dynamic world of sports, psychology plays a pivotal role in shaping athletes’ performance and mindset. Understanding this fundamental connection, Kukri Sports recognises that sportswear isn’t just about style; it’s a strategic tool that empowers athletes to excel in their sport.

Partnering with prestigious institutions such as the Hong Kong Sevens, we provide elite sportswear that elevates performance and fosters team spirit.

Athletes are not just physical entities; their mental state significantly influences their performance. From motivation and application to resilience and determination, psychology underpins every aspect of athletic achievement.

Sportswear is more than just clothing; it’s a symbol of pride, togetherness and identity that each individual represents. The right sportswear provides athletes with comfort, enabling them to perform at their peak in their sport.

At Kukri, we meticulously integrate psychological principles into the design and production of our partner’s kits. Each garment is crafted with precision to enhance performance, boost confidence and enhance team unity, ensuring that athletes feel empowered both mentally and physically when stepping out onto the pitch.

Our latest design for Loughborough Lightning Netball team’s new dress incorporates a sense of pride, championing their 2023 Netball Super League triumph by adding an additional lightning bolt which represents how many titles they have won to date.

This design fills them with pride, celebrating their hard-won achievements. It reminds them of the journey they’ve taken, with its highs and lows, to reach greatness.

Victoria Burgess, Head Coach at Loughborough Lightning Netball Team, explained, “Kukri is a fantastic brand that consistently plays a huge part in our performances each season. The pride the athletes feel when putting on the Lightning dress is inspiring, and their focus on producing the best apparel for our athletes is vital, the design and comfort of the dresses plays a critical part in us allowing to produce consistent performances.“

Through our ongoing exploration of sports psychology, Kukri remains committed to empowering athletes to conquer challenges and achieve greatness.

Ready to unlock your full potential? Join the ranks of athletes who trust us to elevate their performance. Contact us today to discover how our sportswear can fuel your success.

08/03/202414/03/2024

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Kukri Sports reaffirms its commitment to empowering and supporting women in sports.

With a proud history of supporting female athletes across multiple sports for 25 years, Kukri recognises the vital role women play in driving innovation, leadership and excellence in the sporting world.

International Women’s Day serves as a poignant reminder of the progress made towards gender equality. Kukri recognises the importance of creating a level playing field for women in sport, with the hope that creating innovative designs will inspire the next generation of female athletes.

In line with its commitment to women in sport, Kukri has undertaken various initiatives to support and empower female athletes, including:

Sponsorship & Partnership:

As a leading sportswear supplier, Kukri continues to extend its reach across multiple sports, from England Lacrosse to UBC Women’s Rugby team based in Vancouver, Canada.

Kukri is also extending its offer beyond supply elite sportswear, helping to provide support for athletes in their wider development. This is shown through our long-standing partnership with Pegasus Hockey Club, one of the most successful clubs in the history of Irish Hockey.

In our partnership with the all-Women’s club, over 5,000 kits have been meticulously crafted for peak performance and have inspired countless players, some of which have gone on to triumph at international level.

Read more about the partnership.

Customised Sportswear:

From elite athletes to grassroots, Kukri ensures that women have access to sportswear that enhances their performance and confidence on and off the field.

Every kit has a story, from Rugby School’s interconnected jigsaw pieces forming a complete individual wearing the kit, to featuring all affiliated clubs with the Yorkshire Cricket Board that have a women’s and/or girls’ section on Northern Diamonds’ T20 Vitality Blast shirt design.

Scholarship Fund Contributions:

Kukri has also invested in scholarship funds for several of its partner universities, helping students to pursue and achieve their performance related goals in their selected sports.

At Worcester University, over 61 students are benefitting from the scholarship, including second year Sport and Exercise Student, Niamh Williams, who has gone on to represent England U20’s rugby team.

Supporting Athletes’ Performance:

Kukri is also involved in various initiatives with partners to support athletes’ performance, such as providing philanthropic funding for Loughborough University to support their joint study with West Ham United women’s team.

This three-year study aims to make a tangible contribution to women’s sport by investigating the performance characteristics of female footballers from youth age to first-team level.

Read more about the groundbreaking study here.

“We’re all incredibly proud of the unique sporting ecosystem at Loughborough University that undoubtedly contributes to women’s sport“, said Richard Wheater, Director of Sport at Loughborough University.

“Our partnership with Kurki Sports plays a key role in this vision and we’re thrilled to be working collaboratively as women’s sport continues to flourish.”

“At Kukri, we firmly believe that every athlete, regardless of gender, deserves equal opportunities to succeed. We are fully committed to not just supplying elite kit across multiple sports, but also offering support through other empowering initiatives that will enable women to thrive and showcase their talents.” – Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports.

Kukri reaffirms its commitment to empowering women in sport and driving positive change within the sporting landscape. By consistently advocating and offering our support, our commitment persists in shaping a future where women enjoy equal opportunities to excel in their chosen sport.

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

08/01/202413/03/2024

In a significant strategic move, Kukri Sports has been acquired by the businesses Group CEO Andrew Ronnie, marking a new era for the renowned sportswear brand. This management buyout sees Andrew Ronnie taking the reins from the previous majority shareholders.

With a commitment to encouraging growth and innovation, this transition is poised to usher in a bright and promising future for Kukri Sports. The buyout ensures a seamless continuity for the brand’s esteemed partners, while also paving the way for new opportunities and pioneering initiatives in the bespoke sportswear market.

Kuits Solicitors, played an instrumental role in overseeing the legal aspects of the sale, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition of ownership.

NatWest bank have provided financial assistance, aiding the transition and are committed to support the business with its future endeavours.

Commenting on the acquisition, Andrew Ronnie stated, “Acquiring Kukri Sports is a significant milestone in my journey. Having been with the business for many years I am deeply committed to building on the brand’s legacy and steering it towards a future filled with growth, innovation, and unparalleled quality. With the support of our partners and the dedication of our team, I am confident that Kukri Sports will continue to thrive and set new benchmarks in the industry.”

The management buyout underscores a strategic vision aimed at harnessing the brand’s potential, capitalizing on emerging market trends, and reinforcing Kukri Sports’ position as a leader in the Global bespoke sportswear market.