I'm a native of New York City, though I've resided in Richmond, Virginia, since 1984 with my wife and two daughters. I've been a competitive athlete for over forty years. My athletic career began as a runner, and in college I started competing in triathlons and mass-start bike races. My passion for cycling was fueled by the lasting friendships I gained while cycling, as well as the successes I attained. I raced full time for ten years, from the mid 1980s to the mid 1990s. I left full-time competitive cycling for the birth of my first daughter and to start a career.

My coaching philosophy is drawn from my experiences as an athlete, a father, and a member of a tightly-knit, successful team. I enjoy the interaction between coach and athlete, and I take pleasure in helping individuals work toward their vision while developing their physical and mental capabilities to achieve goals greater than they believed within themselves. Hard work, dedication, and commitment are my cornerstones. Working together, the sky’s the limit.

James consistently goes above and beyond my expectation. He provides me with great honest feedback and challenges me to achieve. James is a great fit for my level of service. - Jeffrey, Virginia

I am totally satisfied with James and find him a lovely man to deal with. He has a nice persona and would recommend him to others. I have more than achieved what I set out to do in this short period and look forward to my road ahead. I was previously with [another coaching company] and left them due to lack of feedback and results. I am way ahead of where I was and I have local friend here [with my former coaching company] and now I am ahead of them in fitness as I compete against them. - Charles, Qatar

I think the strength of the coaching service is the personal touch: Answering questions, making recommendations, encouraging texts and emails, etc. In October I was actually able to ride in a gran fondo with James. James not only hosted me and my wife in his home, but he also rode with me in a pre-race ride (training tips). On the start line he said to me, "What would you like me to do for you? I'm riding this race for you." Like I said, personal touch! Can't beat it! I am very much impressed with my experience! I have improved as a cyclist, and I've thoroughly enjoyed the experience. - Kenny, NC

"I am very happy with PCG, and especially with Coach James Schaefer.  He is very professional and technical. He teaches me everything necessary to understand this sport.  I have worked with another coach in the pass, but James is better, analyzes my past workouts and ensures that my fatigue is adequate for each training block, prepares workouts according to my goals and adjusts them when is necessary.  I have achieved with him in a few weeks, incredible results.  I lost three months without training for clavicle surgery, and he worked to recover my fitness gradually, but consistently, and in just three weeks of work I did Miami Half Marathon under 2 hours, and training for triathlon, no just run.  The most important was last Sunday I achieved my PR in 305 Half Marathon with a time of 1:48:00, which I had never achieved before.  Thanks PCG!!!"