An aspiring cyclist hopes to hit the big time and make it to the Olympics after seeing success at competitions.
James Tayler, aged 15, first started road cycling five years ago before moving to indoor cycling.
James started at the Newport Velodrome almost three years ago after a friend from the Clevedon and District Road Club suggested trying a track taster session.
Jon Tayler, James’ father, said he ‘really enjoyed’ the change of pace and has not looked back.
The youngster, who goes to Clevedon School, hopes to follow in the footsteps of gold medallists Chris Hoy and Bradley Wiggins and make it to the Summer Olympic Games.
He told the Times he hopes to reach Olympic level but knows there is a long way to go to achieve this goal.
The Clevedon youngster competed in the Winter Mini League in 2017 which he won and last year saw him promoted to the Youth U16 C League where he came second overall in the spring series in his first attempt.
He has since been promoted to the B League after winning the overall competition.
Jon said: “We are immensely proud of what he has achieved so far.
“James trains and races two to three times a week at Newport Velodrome and would like to progress within the sport and become a professional, but understands this a physically demanding sport and he is also up against stiff competition.
“It would be great to see him become a professional but there is a long road ahead.
“We are all taking it one step at a time, who knows where it may lead.
“He has had some excellent training from Bristol Cycling Development Squad who he rides for and PDQ Cycle Coaching, both have been fundamental to his success so far.”
Headteacher Jim Smith said: “James is showing immense promise in his cycling career and has all the attributes and passion to get to the top of his sport. We are very proud of him and his success.”
James and his family are looking for sponsors to support him on his road to success. The money would help him with equipment to race at his level.
Potential sponsors can contact the family online at www.technigear.co.uk
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