Hunter McElrea rounded out his debut season in Indy Lights at the start of September, scoring not only fourth in the drivers standings but also Rookie of the Year.
After starting the season on the back foot by missing out on points in the first two races, the New Zealander soon bounced back for a strong second half of 2022.
It went so well in fact that no other driver in the series matched the amount of points McElrea accumulated in the last two-thirds of the season.
However, it was the points loss in the first two races that cost him a higher finish in the overall standings.
Nevertheless, a highlight of his rookie season was a dominant win at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, leading all 35 laps from start to finish, as well as earning another win at Iowa Speedway.
The Kiwi capped off the season with just 23 points separating him and second place overall.
McElrea has already been confirmed to race for Andretti Autosports in 2023 for what will be his second season in Indy Lights.
“I was happy to have a little bit of a break from the season and just reflect, and I came back really, really hard,” McElrea said speaking to Indy Lights.
“I think it’s going to be a good year for me. The second year in a series always helps a driver.
“I got Rookie of the Year and was fourth in points. Not a bad year at all. Lots of lessons learned, for sure.”
Main image: Joe Skibinski, Indy Lights website
