with a new cycling team, harbouring dreams of one day turning professional.

The 19-year-old has left his old club, Jolly Club 88, and will ride for semi-pro outfit Monaco International Cycling Team.

This move represents a step up in class as he now goes from a second category amateur to the highest level of amateur competition.

"The difference in joining Monaco is that we ride like pros but don't get a steady wage and still maintain amateur status,'' said Hubbard, who has been on the Island since last October. "It's a big step and one that is always difficult.

"I've being doing a rigorous winter training programme with Greg Hopkins that has involved a lot of base work, averaging about 350 miles a week.

"I feel like I'm in good shape and will be able to further build on my fitness level once I get back over there.'' Monaco had attempted to lure the Bermudian to the club last year after watching a few of his early performances, but the youngster chose to hold off until this year.

A total of 33 persons comprise the Monaco group, which has `A' and `B' teams -- Hubbard falls in the former category -- as well as a few mountain bike riders.

While he will still compete in the Cote d'Azur region, Hubbard may change his base from Menton in southern France to Monaco.

His first taste of action comes in the form of a time trial at the Tour of the Mediterranean, which attracts numerous pro scouts looking for prospective stars of the future.

Last year, Hubbard's first on senior level, saw him exceed expectations in winning four events, but he admits it will be a much tougher proposition this time around.

"I'm at the stage where I'm in a category where everybody is looking to get exposure and win events,'' said Hubbard, the team's youngest member. "I'm just looking to be recognised so that in the next couple of years I could turn pro.

"You never know (how you stack up against the competition) until you get out there and race. Mentally and physically I feel confident of my abilities and as my body matures I'm sure I'll do well...it's not a question of will I get there, but when?'' Hubbard also points to the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta as a major priority.

"The Olympics is one of the stepping stones to my goal in the sport. I think Bermuda entered one time before and was not very successful...I aim to change all that.'' ELLIOTT HUBBARD -- The young Bermudian, second left, is heading for better things.