Definitely check out the link that CDR posted. Most of us followed that progression in one form or another. As for me, I was a triathlete nd had been riding with a guy who was a long time racer. He encouraged me to come out to the local Saturday race ride. After awhile, I signed up for a local criterium. I stayed unattached for two seasons and then joined the team sponsored by my LBS. I wish I would have joined sooner.