Through our partnership with Ride Sri Lanka and MTB Worldwide, we set out to create an experience worthy of this special birthday occasion – not just a giveaway, but an opportunity that embodies adventure in the pursuit of something extraordinary. The prize? A fully funded gravel cycling holiday to Sri Lanka, riding alongside TORQ’s Owner and Managing Director, Matt Hart.

This exciting journey included international flights from Heathrow, nine nights in 4-star accommodation, five days of fully supported cycling through Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes with 80 other dedicated riders, a TORQ Performance Nutrition package to fuel the adventure, and much more.

Entry to the competition was open to all, designed to inspire and engage. Participants answered a mix of brand-related “pub quiz” style questions, alongside three that explored TORQ’s deeper philosophy and expertise. The response was overwhelming, with entrant numbers far exceeding our expectations and we were truly humbled by the passion and enthusiasm for TORQ. Choosing a winner was no easy feat, but after careful deliberation, we were thrilled to announce Victoria McKinnon as our winner.

What does the TORQ brand mean to you?

TORQ represents a commitment to fuelling performance with precision, science, and passion; values that resonate with me as an athlete and sports nutritionist. Its dedication to providing athletes with high-quality, delicious, evidence-based products reflects the same ethos I apply in my own work. TORQ’s focus on tasty, effective nutrition for endurance and performance aligns with my mission to help clients achieve their best. As a brand, TORQ is more than just a product line; it’s a partner in optimising human potential, an inspiration in my practice, and a standard-bearer in sports nutrition excellence.

What is your favourite TORQ product?

 My favourite TORQ product is challenging to select, but I will go for the Rhubarb and Custard energy gel as this was my entry into the TORQ range. I came across this product many years ago, when I struggled with the other energy gels on the market. The taste and consistency of the TORQ gel was so different and effective, that it completely changed my performance. This product opened my eyes to the range of different products and I have since been instrumental in the product being stocked in a running shop I used to work at, whilst also recommending TORQ’s range to many of my clients.

What is it about this event that appeals to you the most?

This would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I have never been to Sri Lanka and would love to see the country via a gravel bike. I have completed several multi-day hikes and road rides in the past but not on this scale. The event would provide me with a goal I have been searching for over the past decade and completing it with TORQ would be unbelievable.

Sri Lanka is a premier destination for gravel cycling, where diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage create an unparalleled riding experience. From rugged mountains and rolling tea plantations to tranquil coastal trails, the island’s network of low-traffic backroads offers an ever-changing journey through ancient cities, lush jungles, and remote villages.

Each route tells a story. Whether you’re climbing through the misty hills of Ella, passing the historic ruins of Sigiriya, or tracing the southern coast along dusty tracks, every ride is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty and history. With a warm climate enabling year-round exploration, welcoming locals, and the possibility of close encounters with Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife elephants, peacocks, sambar deer, and wild buffalo, this is more than just a cycling trip; it’s an experience that deepens your connection to the world around you.

Feeling a little inspired to ride your bike in Sri Lanka? Ride Sri Lanka is an annual event and you can now provide your details ready to sign up ready for when 2026 entries open on the Ride Sri Lanka website.

What a start I had to 2025.

January 3rd was a typical ‘post Christmas period, end of the school holidays’ day. I was battling with my two children to get out of the house to visit the Trafford Centre, when I got a call from Marcus at TORQ about a competition I had entered.  To be honest I had completely forgotten about entering the competition, so the call was completely out of the blue. I think Marcus must have thought the phone reception was poor, or I was struggling to understand what he was saying as I was completely speechless. My heart was racing, I could not believe the words he was saying. It felt surreal—like winning the golden ticket to a dream cycling adventure. And then I checked the dates and I realised I had a problem…..The holiday of a lifetime clashes with my daughters 13th birthday…

Pure excitement, quickly followed by disbelief and mum guilt.  Was I about to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime cycling journey across the breathtaking landscapes of Sri Lanka. The realisation that I’d be experiencing some of the most scenic and challenging cycling routes in the world was overwhelming in the best way possible. A few negotiations later and I was reading every bit of information I could find on Ride Sri Lanka 2025.

Sri Lanka, the Island of Serendipity, is renowned for its stunning coastal roads, lush tea plantations, and exhilarating mountain passes. What excites me the most is the chance to ride through such diverse terrain, taking in the vibrant culture and inspiring views along the way. The idea of cycling past wildlife – especially snakes terrifies me. But, pushing myself on those rolling hills is truly thrilling. Of course, riding with other people, the local cuisine, 4* hotels, 30 degree heat and warm hospitality are a bonus I’m eager to experience!

Winning this competition has given me a goal to train for, that I have been searching for during the past 8 years. I have loved getting back on Zwift on the turbo and combining this with some strength and run sessions. I was really fortunate to be gifted a massive supply of TORQ products. I have created a nutrition plan for each day of the ride, travel out and back and the rest days and used any spare products in training. A great opportunity for me to practice what I preach!

Another key aspect of my preparation has been mindset. I have had and continue to have many doubts and worries over lack of training, lack of long rides (I am a proud fair-weather rider!) having mechanical issues on the bike. But I have focused on staying consistent, setting small, achievable goals and reminding myself of what is in store next month! I have loved challenging myself and can’t wait to get on to the trails in Sri Lanka in the warmth!

For anyone out there dreaming of winning a competition like this, my advice is simple – enter! Someone has to win and why can’t it be you? You have to be in it to win it! Opportunities like this don’t come around often, but when they do, get ready to seize them.

Winning this trip is more than just a prize—it’s an experience, an adventure, a challenge, and a chance to create unforgettable memories. I’m beyond grateful for this opportunity, and I can’t wait to pedal my way through the beauty of Sri Lanka. Let the adventure begin!

TORQ along with Ride Sri Lanka and MTB Worldwide will be posting periodically across our social media channels over the duration of Ride Sri Lanka 2025 Week. This will provide a fantastic opportunity to get a feel for this event should you wish to enter for 2026.

You can follow us using the links below:

TORQ Fitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torqfitness

MTB Worldwide Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtbworldwide

Ride Sri Lanka Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/srilankanairlinesofficial