BROWNSBURG, Ind. - Pro Mazda Championship Presented by Cooper Tires rookie Jake Parsons had a strong and consistent first experience of U.S. oval racing, finishing fourth in  the Cooper Tires Freedom 90 at Lucas Oil Raceway on Friday.

The young Australian said afterwards, “It was awesome to do a race on an oval. We learned so much, I kind of want to do it again now with the experience I’ve gained.”

Parsons, who qualified fourth on the grid, showed race-winning pace throughout the 90-lap event, often being quickest on the track. Having battled with his Juncos team mate for third, the 21-year-old found passing back markers a real learning curve.

“It’s not until you get right up behind another car that you really feel how the aero work and change. That’s where the experience will help most. I had a former IndyCar racer spotting for me, so it was cool to have someone like that in my ear,” added the 2014 AsiaCup champion.

The #00 car driver is looking forward to running on an oval again later in the season at Iowa.

“It’s a shame we have a long gap to the next oval. We prepared really well physically and mentally for this race. I found it quite easy to keep focused, so I’m looking forward to putting that together with the things I have learned here.”

Rounds eight and nine of the Pro Mazda Championship take place at Road America on June 24-26.