KIDDERMINSTER'S Formula Ford champion Nathan Freke is on track to continue his motor-racing career in the Champ Car Atlantic Series in America.

Freke is in talks with several teams in the States because opportunities to race professionally in this country are limited.

"Nathan is now turning his eyes towards the USA and the Champ Car Atlantic series where there is a mapped out progression into the motorsport profession," said his father Clive.

"Talks are taking place with teams in the States, and sponsorship funding is being sought to enable Nathan to perform on the world's largest motorsport stage.

"Freke's hopes of a late surge onto the Formula 1 scene were dashed when he was pipped to the Autosports Young Driver of the Year award.

The winner was announced in London on Sunday night after six hopefuls, including Freke, took part in driving and interviews earlier this month.

Freke was as quick as all five of his rivals in the 450bhp World Series Renault and Mercedes DTM despite his lack of experience in cars with aerodynamic ground force.

And he came into his own in the Porsche Carrera Cup as he clocked the fastest time of all the candidates and was even faster than the 2006 Porsche Cup champion.

The interview phase of the test also went well with Freke impressing eight judges, including Martin Brundle, Damon Hill, and Jonathon Palmer, with his achievements so far and plans for the future.

Clive Freke added: "Unfortunately the panel of ultimately decided that one of the other candidates would be more likely to succeed on the path to F1 despite not being as competitive in the cars and not winning a championship after three attempts.

"However the achievement in reaching the final six and driving 3 fantastic cars was a major reward for Nathan's season's achievements."

For more details about Freke visit www.nathan-freke.co.uk or contact him via e-mail at representaion@gomansport.com