Is the first time you have had support from the Dave Rayner Fund?
No, I had funding for the 2015 season.

What is your cycling history ?
I started riding for my local club Heanor Clarion when I was only 6 years only. From then on I’ve fallen in love with the sport. As a youngster I did a lot of cyclo-cross before moving into road racing. As an under 16 I competed in my first continental race at the Win Hendrix Memorial. For me racing outside the UK was a huge eye opener. As a Junior I continally raced in Belgium as I found it suited my riding and I enjoyed the attacking style of racing. I owe a huge thanks to John Barcley who gave me these opportunities. I had a successful season as a second year Junior that landed me in the company of Kurt Van De Wouwer the Lotto Soudal U23 Head Director Sportive.

What team are you joining in 2016?
I am staying with the same team as last year; Lotto Soudal U23

Tell us a bit about your team.
Lotto Soudal U23 is an associate team of the Lotto Soudal World Tour Team. It has previously had two other British riders the last being Dan McLay who was also supported by the Dave Rayner Fund before turning Pro in 2015.

Do they have they a website/FaceBook or Twitter we can link to?

http://www.lottosoudal.be/u23-nieuws-2/

What is your race programme looking like?

I have a full programme scheduled through to July. My first race will be Brussels-Opwijk on the 28th February. I then have a few one day races before my first big stage race at the Tour Of Normandie.

Where are you going to live?

OLV Olen, Belgium.

Your Twitter name and any website or blog links.

@JamesthingyShaw

https://jamesshaw96.wordpress.com