Madison Higgins, age 14, was the winner of the inaugural Spirit of Gravel award at The Gralloch 2025. She is a local to Gatehouse of Fleet and was inspired to take up gravel cycling after events like The Gralloch and Raiders came to her home town. With the help and advice of her favourite pro cyclist, Maddy Nut, Madison trained all winter to take on her first ever gravel event, The Gralloch Sportive. She was the youngest cyclist on the starting line. 

Madison is the epitome of ‘the spirit of gravel’, showing up with pure love and commitment for the sport and inspiring others to do so too. We caught up with Madison to see how her journey with cycling is progressing this winter and what her goals are for the upcoming season. 

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What does the ‘spirit of gravel’ mean to you? And what did it mean to win the award? 

To me, the spirit of gravel means showing up to every ride with a ‘will do’ and positive attitude, that will push you through any challenges a ride can bring. 

Winning the spirit of gravel award meant a lot to me. It gave me a sense of accomplishment and achievement after all the hard work I put into my training. It also commemorates completing my first ever gravel sportive, which is the highlight of my gravel journey.

How have you developed your cycling training this winter?

After completing The Gralloch, I wanted to become faster and push my limits. The following week I began cycling with cleats!  Looking back, l was a warm weather cyclist, but now I just take on whatever elements are thrown at me. I am definitely more disciplined when it comes to training now! 

Pre-Gralloch, I would panic if a cyclist was close to me, but now I enjoy group cycling.

How did it feel having an event like The Gralloch in your home town?‍

Firstly, it was comforting as I knew the terrain! And then the feeling of reaching the finish line with my friends and family cheering was amazing. It has also encouraged me to join local cycling groups and sportives.

I loved being part of the huge cycling community The Gralloch brings. I felt that I fitted in and zooming down the street with all the other cyclists was a great feeling. 

My favourite part of cycling in Galloway is how close the good gravel is, and the stunning views and surroundings. It’s wonderful to get to share that with The Gralloch community. 

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How important have you found having a role model (like Maddy Nutt) been to your cycling journey? 

I believe having someone to aspire to or look up to is definitely a huge support in sport. It has given me the motivation I needed. Maddy has been such a great influence on my cycling journey. I hope to one day be a successful and respected sports woman like her and give the same aspiration to others.

What would you say to another young girl who’s thinking about giving cycling a go?

100% go for it. It’s a challenging sport, but the reward is worth it. I also feel so much fitter and more energetic since taking up gravel cycling. 

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Finally, will we see you at The Gralloch 2026? 

I will 100% be at the Gralloch 2026! My goals are to push myself for a better time, and finish with a smile!

As part of the Spirit of Gravel award, Madison has received life time entry to all Red On Sports events. Keep cycling Madison, The Gralloch believes in you. 

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Nominations for this years Spirit of Gravel award will open soon!