BROWNSBURG, Ind. -- Anthony Martin's top career objective to someday become Verizon IndyCar Series champion took a major step forward when the Australian made his oval track debut in the Mazda Freedom 75 as the Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship Powered by Mazda made its only oval track stop of the season Saturday at the famed 5/8-mile Lucas Oil Raceway.
The week started Tuesday with Martin and other Mazda Road to Indy drivers attending the annual Mazda Road to Indy Summit and receiving tips on oval racing from IndyCar legend Rick Mears, Simona Di Silvestro and Mazda Road to Indy graduate Carlos Munoz.
"The greatest advice from the summit came from Rick Mears, who said to be smooth with every move you make on an oval," said Martin.
Martin put the advice to use right away and worked his way to fourth on the speed charts by the end of the three practice sessions, and ultimately qualifying fifth for the Freedom 75.
Martin was able to clear fourth place qualifier Yufeng Luo on lap 1 as the cars exited Turn Two, was able to hold off Luo throughout the remainder of the race.
Following the race, Martin was smiling wide, expressing how exciting it was to be navigating traffic and making passes nearly every lap.
Team owner John Cummiskey was full of praise following the rookie standout's oval track debut.
"We knew coming in that Anthony was going to do well for us, and he absolutely exceeded expectations for his first oval track start, and I couldn't be prouder of Anthony and the crew for their efforts," said Cummiskey.
The series now heads north of the border for a double-header event on the streets of Toronto. Martin will look to continue to a streak of top-five finishes that now spans four consecutive races, spearheaded by podium finishes at NOLA Motorsports Park (second) and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course (third).
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About John Cummiskey Racing:
Cummiskey leads an experienced crew and provides a professional race team environment to young drivers looking to expand their career. JCR is focused on providing top quality equipment and a winning atmosphere. In addition, JCR offers a full service preparation/restoration shop for any type of racecar. JCR services include full chassis, suspension, engine, and transmission preparation/restoration.