Shanaze Reade is adamant her decision to cross the pond will only help her as she hunts for BMX gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Three-time world champion and two-time Olympian Reade will be strutting her stuff on BMX’s professional tour in the United States next year – the ABA BMX Series.
The 25-year-old has been given the blessing of British Cycling with the decision meaning that she steps away from their Olympic podium programme.
The move means Reade will miss the BMX World Championships taking place in Rotterdam in July.
But after twice reaching an Olympic final only to walk away empty handed on both occasions, Reade believes the change of scenery will pay dividends when she touches down in Brazil.
"Whilst I'm sad to temporarily move away from the GB cycling team, I'm also excited by the opportunity to race on the pro scene in America,” she said.
"My ultimate goal is to win an Olympic gold medal, and I think my move to the ABA BMX Series will help achieve this.
“I will be racing more frequently against world-class competition and I will be able to refine my technical skills in competitive race conditions.
"I'm looking forward to gaining more race experience out in America and using this in my campaign for Rio.
"British Cycling have given the decision their full backing as I continue to develop as an athlete and it is great to know I am able to return at any point in the future."
© Sportsbeat 2013