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@Lynchman
Getting all competitive now eh, how exiting. With the right training and bike configuration there's no reason why you couldn't smash the record!
Nothing to be ashamed of whatsoever. Obviously you need structured training… training, training, training. i.e. strength, technique, speed, endurance, interval training and so on. Bear in mind that there is a lot more to it, than pedalling around London for a few hours after school every day; loads of info on the interwebz of course, also you might consider joining a club, but perhaps that's not you? Will be training intensely myself this season, so please feel free to share and keep us posted about your progress.
What gear ratio are you running at the moment, 51/20 or something like that? Which of course is ideal for working on your technique and everyday training, or riding around town. For competitive racing and time trials however, you will definitely need something bigger. Not exactly sure what restrictions there are for your age group, but a configuration equivalent to 83-86 gear inches or 6.5-7.0 metres of development depending on your choise of tyres, can't be far off.
You will ned to try out different combinations and log your results. Ideally you want to measure or calculate your cadence as well as your speed with various ratios, and use a gear/cadence/speed/mod calculator to analyse your results and plan and target your training.
As slack as your chain... Never give up cycling just for fun, but be clear that pedalling about for 20 miles at a (very) slow pace will not improve you overall performance in a million years.
Ftfy!
Nothing wrong with riding brakeless; it's a different style of riding and may require more skills and experience, that's all. Alright, in all seriousness riding brakeless in a competitive situation is not necessarily commendable, nor sensible, thus fitting a brake for racing or training full whack on public roads, particularly if/when riding in a group, does make good sense and will more than likely be a requirement should you join a club. Do what's right for you, but be careful. Actually, considering your age, do what your mum tells you to.
;)