We’re thrilled to share the news that the first ever Sisters in the Wild Bikepacking Bursary has its winner: Marie Claire (@freaky_lil_thing_), a rider and community builder from Bristol.

Marie Claire is the founder of @tempo_bristol, a new cycling collective encouraging more women+ of colour to discover the joy of riding together. Her passion for accessibility and representation in cycling shines through everything she does, from volunteering with Bristol Bike Project, to training as a mechanic, to heading out on bikepacking trips using borrowed gear. Cycling, she says, has transformed her relationship with her body and inspired her to create spaces where others can find confidence and joy on two wheels.

Now, with the support of the bursary, including mentoring, a place on Sisters in the Wild’s Intro to Bikepacking Weekender, and an incredible bundle of gear worth over £5,000,  Marie Claire will have the tools to expand her skills, grow Tempo, and inspire more riders to head out into the wild!

What Valley and Peak are Providing

The Valley + Peak team believe adventure should be open to everyone. That’s why we’re so proud to be part of this groundbreaking bursary by equipping Marie Claire with a full camping setup to fuel her bikepacking journeys:

• MSR Hubba Hubba Bikepack 2-Person Tent - a lightweight, packable tent designed specifically with bikepackers in mind.

• Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm NXT Sleeping Mat - an ultralight mat offering serious warmth and comfort for nights under the stars.

• Therm-a-Rest Parsec Sleeping Bag (5°C comfort rating) - a versatile bag that balances packability, warmth, and comfort across three seasons.

Together, these essentials form the foundation of any great bikepacking adventure - lightweight, durable, and reliable, whether for a weekend overnighter or a longer tour.

Looking Ahead

We’re incredibly excited to follow Marie Claire’s journey and see how she uses the bursary to grow her riding, her community, and her adventures. A huge congratulations to her from all of us at Valley and Peak - and a big thank you to Sisters in the Wild and all the brand partners for making this bursary possible.

This is just the beginning. Here’s to breaking down barriers, opening doors, and helping more people discover the freedom of bikepacking.