Becoming Pro

Question
Hey I am trying to figure out how I need to go about possibly becoming a pro mountain bike rider. I grew up around bikes but I did alot of bmx racing. I just recently got into mountain bike riding and I love it. I would really like to know what steps to take that could get me to a place of becoming a pro rider??
THANKS ALOT

Answer
Justin,

Obviously, becoming a pro takes a serious commitment.  You should start with a lot of purposeful training (you can hire a coach or you can self-coach).   You also have to set out a schedule of races next season and plan how to do well in them.  If you do well in them, you move up from beginner to expert.  If you do well at expert at enough big races, you submit an application to become a pro.

A great resource is USA Cycling.  Go to their website and take a look at the programs for developing riders at http://www.usacycling.org/mtb/
and, more specifically,  http://www.usacycling.org/news/user/story.php?id=809
This information will get you started on learning what assistance and training is available for talented young riders.

In addition to these things, I recommend you find a local club to ride with.  You will learn a ton of information about fitness, skills and bike maintenance from the other members.

I hope this has given you a start.  Good luck to you.

Graeme