Team Cyclingnews - Down Under

Name of rider: Hamish Robert Haynes

Nationality: British (Manchester )

DOB: 05.03.74

Years in Team Cyclingnews.com - Down Under: First year

Aims for this year: Make a strong successful team. Personally win at least three races with professionals and at least twelve with amateurs, I aim to include the British national road championship amongst these.

When did you start cycling, and why: Always used a bike to get around since I was a kid. Started racing when I was 23 because I love it.

Biggest inspiration: Friends, family, riding in beautiful places and winning. Best experience in racing bikes so far: Its all good.

How's life in Belgium and where do you live? I love it; the people are friendly, love bike racing and bike riders. It's just a bit flat and its always a little difficult being away from family and friends in the UK. I live in the team house, Booischot.

Learning Flemish (if English-speaking): I know the basics. More or less managed to do a five minute interview in Vlaams with a newspaper journalist a couple of days ago. I was quite proud of myself, but I must learn more.

Favourite bar if visiting your home town: I don't drink and hate smoke.

Favourite (Belgian) beer: Beer is grim.

Most essential non-cycling piece of equipment: Knife, fork and spoon.

Latest CD you bought - Was it any good: I'm poorer than a church mouse and am looking for a well to do lady to buy CD's for me. Please.