Skerlong tests for PCM

The Seattle-born 19-year-old completed 58 laps of the 1.86-mile Californian course.

Skerlong finished 10th in his rookie Champ Car Atlantic season this year with two podium finishes and four top six grid slots. Earlier this year, Skerlong was signed to the PCM Junior scheme, which is to help young drivers establish a route to Champ Car.

Although Skerlong will remain with the US Racetronics Atlantic team for 2008, back in August Pacific Coast Motorsports' team director Tyler Tadevic announced that both Skerlong and Mexico's David Garza would be given a chance to test a Champ Car.

Following the test, Tadevic said: "Carl did an outstanding job in his first outing in the PCM Champ Car. His speed improved progressively throughout the day, and his feedback and ability to adapt not only to the extra horsepower but also to all of the additional features and functions of the Champ Car were impressive.

"Carl proved that he will certainly be ready to step up to big leagues in 2009 and I am sure he will fight for the 2008 Atlantic title."

Skerlong, who intends to graduate to Champ Car in 2009, said: "I can't thank the Pacific Coast Motorsports and US RaceTronics organizations enough for this opportunity. I learned so much about the DP-01 and how to properly test a Champ Car.

"To get this opportunity at this stage in my career will be key to my progression as a driver; my testing experience just went up to a whole new level. I really do have a new found appreciation of Champ Car drivers and the levels they need to compete at.

"All in all, the test went very well, we ran 58 laps and I'm thankful for each one."

Garza's planned test has been delayed due to him being in the middle of his final exams at the moment. The Mexican, who partnered Skerlong this year at US Racetronics, has since signed for Forsythe's Atlantic squad for 2008.