The Opportunity

Founded in 1818, Leander Club is the largest, most historic and successful rowing club in the world. Leander Club is recognised the world over for its extraordinary achievements, having won more Olympic and World championship gold medals than any other club. Members include Sir Steve Redgrave, Sir Matthew Pinsent, Debbie Flood and Steve Williams. In 2008, Leander Club required a complete outfitting solution for athletes with an opportunity to become an official kit supplier. Invesco Perpetual, the club sponsor, set a budget for this project.

The Solution

JKUK Sports works with a range of fabrics and sports garments, including technical rowing kit, suitable for elite athletes. With experience of working on large projects within designated timelines, JKUK was well placed to deliver a comprehensive solution to Leander Club.

JKUK proposed a complete technical offering of ‘on-water’ training and racing kit (JL brand) along with a full off-water range (Crewroom brand).

The key objectives for JKUK were:

To ensure the garments would offer athletes technical benefits including wicking, breathability and antimicrobial properties.

• To offer made-to-measure garments which would ensure excellent fit and function for all athletes and endure the rigors of daily training.
• To create garments which athletes would be proud to wear. To create a range, within budget and on time.
• To offer sponsorship through ‘value-in-kind’ via significant discount and best price on proposed outfitting solution

JKUK worked closely with Leander Club management, elite athletes and an established manufacturing base to create a comprehensive range of high-end garments. Delivery was made within the designated time-frame and on budget.

The Results

The outfitting solution for Leander Club has resulted in an elite team uniform which provides excellent fit and function for the athletes involved. The range adds value to the Leander Club brand and satisfies the sponsorship requirements of Invesco Perpetual.

By working with elite athletes such as Steve Williams (Gold, Beijing 2008) and Debbie Flood (Silver, Beijing 2008) JKUK is able to test fabrics and kit items for the future and ensure the range evolves with new technologies and demands of the sport.