Bryan Herta Autosport Tests Scott Anderson in Indy Lights Car

Scott Anderson

As one of the scholarship awards he earned by winning the Skip Barber National Championship in 2011, Pro Mazda driver Scott Anderson had the opportunity to do a one-day Indy Lights test with Bryan Herta Autosport on Wednesday at Putnam Park Road Course.

Despite winning the championship nearly two years ago, Anderson wisely decided to delay the test until he felt he could fully maximize the opportunity. His patience paid off at the 1.78-mile, 10-turn road course. The Fort Collins, Colorado native made a good impression as he quickly adapted to the increased speed and power of the Indy Lights car.

According to the team, Anderson provided great feedback and demonstrated that he is ready to make the next step up the Mazda Road to Indy ladder.

"Testing with Bryan Herta Autosport in their Indy Lights car was a fantastic opportunity," said Anderson. "The team did a flawless job getting me comfortable in the car and up to speed quickly.

"Being in the Pro Mazda series at the moment, with Indy Lights as the next step, it was perfect timing to get a taste of what I'll be driving in a year or two. Now I know what to expect and I'll have time to look back and reflect, so I'll be that much better prepared when I make the jump.

"I want to give a huge thanks to the Bryan Herta Autosport crew and the Skip Barber Racing School for giving me the opportunity."

Not only is Anderson the 2011 Skip Barber National Champion, but he's also a former MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development scholarship recipient. He currently pilots the #44 Juncos Racing/Laser Nail Centers/Neuropathy Testing Center/Foot Surgery Center of Northern Colorado Pro Mazda car and is coming off his best Mazda result – and first podium – with a second place finish in Mosport.

As a rookie, Anderson is fifth in the championship points and has his sights set on good results on the Mazda Road to Indy. Wednesday's test with BHA shows his dedication to making the right steps in reaching his goals.

Skip Barber CEO Michael Culver added, "On behalf of the more than 300,000 alumni, employees and instructors of the Skip Barber Racing School, I want to congratulate Scott Anderson for his progress along the Mazda Road to Indy since winning the Skip Barber Racing Series National Championship in 2011. Scott's success underscores not only his dedication but also the power of Skip Barber Racing School driver training in the fundamentals of racing.

"Skip Barber Racing School is the gateway to motorsports for aspiring professionals and enthusiasts alike. We have a passion for sport, which is shared by our partner, Bryan Herta Autosport. We sincerely appreciate Bryan's enthusiasm for Skip Barber Racing School. The BHA Indy Lights test for our race series champion is extraordinary and unlike any other opportunity in motorsports for young drivers. Many thanks to Bryan."