Australian Formula Ford series winner Hunter McElrea topped the times at the Mazda Road to Indy USF2000 Open Test at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

McElrea, driving for Pabst Racing, clocked a best of 1:24.448 in the fourth session of the two-day test at the 14 turn road course.

The Gold Coast based New Zealander managed to edge Australian Formula 3 driver Cameron Shields to the top spot by 0.04s.

McElrea and Shields starred throughout with the latter topping the times in the third session on Monday.

“The two days went really well,” said McElrea.

“I really enjoyed learning a new track, getting back into the USF2000 car and working with the Pabst team. It was great to finish P1 overall. Hopefully I get the opportunity to have another go.

“I have been racing on a treaded tyre with no aero all year, so that is going to be a big help preparing for the Formula Mazda at the Shootout which have slicks and wings. I can’t wait to put what I learned to use in Phoenix.”

Courtesy of winning the Australian Formula Ford title, McElrea is due to take part in the Mazda Road to Indy USF2000 $200k Scholarship Shootout at Bondurant Racing School this weekend.