Whyte hopes to shine bright at BMX World Cup

Whyte, 21, joined British Cycling's academy programme in 2011 and is making a third appearance at his home event.

But this year there's an added pressure following his bronze medal in Rotterdam, when he reacted quickest after a five-man crash to seize a surprise podium spot.

"It’s our home track, we train here and in Manchester we always get the best atmosphere, every year," he said.

"It’s going to be a big race. It's the start of the World Cup season so just being able to compete in it is massive and I’m hoping to do well.

"You can put a bit of pressure on yourself if you’re thinking about points to qualify for the Olympics, or about competing in front of a home crowd with your friends and family.

"But I look forward to the pressure of racing in the big races and it's all about making that team for Rio.

"I'm really excited for this year. Last year I managed to do well but and I’ve had a decent block of training, so hopeful I can build on 2014 now.

"We’re going to do a lot of racing this year because we do have Olympic qualification to think about.

"Being a world medallist sort of puts a target on your back but I'm just excited to be racing."

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