What's next? - 16 yr old cyclist.

[VoxNihili]

Hi,
I've just turned 16, been riding for a couple of years, and started road cycling about a year ago. Say, hypothetically, that I wanted to join a serious team in the near future, or start edging into semi-pro racing after sixth form/through university, what an ideal map of races/qualifications, etc be? I'm just considering whether or not it could be feasible to continue, and I wouldn't just want to pour money in if it's never going to go anywhere...Not trying to be vain/overly ambitious - just see how realistic you guys think it is...

Is it worth joining British Cycling in the immediate future?

[Grandad]

Join British Cycling and a local club whose members race. Ask for advice and do a few races but realistically you are a few years too late to get to semi-pro level (unless you are already doing some other sport at a very high level)

[softlips]

Join your local club and a British Cycling. There will be peple who can help at both.

[De Sisti]

This guy started riding a bike at 16 years of age.

[Vorpal]

Hi,
I've just turned 16, been riding for a couple of years, and started road cycling about a year ago. Say, hypothetically, that I wanted to join a serious team in the near future, or start edging into semi-pro racing after sixth form/through university, what an ideal map of races/qualifications, etc be? I'm just considering whether or not it could be feasible to continue, and I wouldn't just want to pour money in if it's never going to go anywhere...Not trying to be vain/overly ambitious - just see how realistic you guys think it is...

Is it worth joining British Cycling in the immediate future?

I agree with others... Look for a local club.

BC has a clubfinder online https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/clubfinder

Call some, or email them, then go for some rides with a few that seem suitable, or get your parents or a friend to help, if you aren't too sure for yourself. Some clubs have a good system for coaching and helping young people get started. Others are too small, or basically are just a bunch of friends who formed a club so they could race together.

You don't have to join British Cycling to try some clubs, and some clubs include BC membership with their own membership fees.

There area also venues, such as Redbridge Cycling Centre, where coaching and beginner races are available, and some cycling clubs that specialise in youth development. There is information about these available on BC's website, local facility websites, and other places, though it may take a little detective work to find.

If you feel comfortable saying where you are--county or area of a large county are enough (e.g. West Yorkshire, East Essex, etc.)--folks on here might be able to recommend some clubs.

Also, there are some forums for BC affiliated clubs. The Eastern Road Race League (BC Eastern Region / Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex) has one, for example. http://forum.errl.org.uk/forum.php

[NUKe]

Agree get in touch with a local club, hopefully you will find one that has a strong youth section, what area are you in, people might be able to advise on local clubs in their are

[Spinners]

Definitely join British Cycling and one of your local clubs (the one that appears best for racing) but you do need to be realistic about the impact that your studies will have on your cycling... and vice-versa!

[Ivor Tingting]

Definitely join British Cycling and one of your local clubs (the one that appears best for racing) but you do need to be realistic about the impact that your studies will have on your cycling... and vice-versa!

This. Don't just join any old club. Check them out first whether they are racing focused club or one mainly for older plodders or those who have no interest in racing. As others have said join BC. If you are half serious and any good there will be people there who can help. I note you haven't indicated which part of the country you live or an approximate area as I am sure some one could offer the name of a suitable club for you to approach if in the unlikely event BC couldn't help. You could always email Dave Brailsford ;@). Seriously though you should be pretty near or have got good results at entry level racing to stand a chance. Mind you Rebecca Romero jumped shipped from rowing winning a silver medal at the Athens Olympics in 2004 to track cycling winning Olympic medals in 2006 and 2007. You have to be really dedicated, focussed and also have some talent. Go for it. Good luck.