Becoming Pro takes alot!! of work. I have the same aspirations, I started riding at the age of 20 and started racing right away. I got my ass kicked in my first race "lapped" I had only been riding a month or so but I feel it was good for me. I am 23 now and just turned Cat 2. I believe I will be a Pro Cyclist. Right now my advisors are telling me to take it slow and learn. As another poster said I will compete in some Stage Races next year agaisnt the big guns to see where I am at. I continue to put in the 28+ hour weeks on the bike while also going to college. Climbing is my speciality and thats what I focus on. I don't feel you have to start riding in your teens to become a Pro. Ride lots and if you have the genetics and determination and I feel most importantly DISCIPLINE you can do it. Ride 6 hours in the 100+ degree heat, ride 6 hours when it's pouring rain or cold. Bottom line ride lots and race lots to learn. I will get back with ya'll at this time next year to let you know what Pro Team I will be riding for. LOL