Help to initiate a conversation when I'm shy

I think a quick autobiography might be helpful. I am 22yrs old and I have never had a boyfriend. I've been on a few dates, but I never made it to the 2nd date. I'm an extremely shy person and I don't let anyone get to know me very quickly. I know that is the biggest reason why I have never had a relationship. So a few weeks ago we went to see my Great Uncle race at a dirt track. He was barely beat out by this 20yr old and my mom teased me about dating a racer. Well when we were in the pits after the races my mom asked my aunt if there were any decent guys to set me up with (I'm used to her asking other people, though it is still a little embarrassing). My aunt mentioned the 20yr old and my mom got excited. My aunt said that the next day she'll introduce us to him, but he wasn't at that race. Well a few days later my mom added him on facebook and she talked to him through private messages. She mentioned me and she said he tried to look for me to send a friend request, but he couldn't (I have strict privacy settings) and she said that she'll have me send a request. I did the next day, which I am still surprised by because I am very shy and can become nervous very easily, especially when it involves guys. I told a close friend about it and she told me that I should send a message. Well, I'd like to, but I can get the nerve to do it. It's been almost 3 weeks and I have not sent a message. I don't know if it's the excuse of not ever meeting him in person or that I am a wimp when it comes to guys. I try to explain to myself that even if it is a terrible conversation I won't be harming any relationships/friendships, but I can't get past this nervousness that I have. Maybe it's a lack of experience. I actually do want to send a message, something simple, but the idea terrifies me even though it's something I want to do. And it's not like I have the idea that I "need" a boyfriend or that the only way I'll be happy is in a relationship, I just would like to get to know him and if something comes out of it, then great! I guess it would be great to know some ways that I can start to overcome my fear and just talk to a guy without it feeling like it's do or die. Or even some suggestions on how to initiate a simple conversation without the fear of making a mistake.

When you first start talking to someone its easy because all you do is listen to them talk about their past and they listen to you. You're just getting the feel of each other. You should message him! " hello, how are you? " is how you can start it off. And its amazing how after that, you won't be so nervous anymore. I hope I helped and I wish you the best of luck(: