ORANGEVILLE motor racing driver Daniel Erickson might have a crack at the Star Mazda Championship in the United States next year following his impressive testing sessions in Houston recently.

But, the Australian Motor Sport Federation International Rising Star is facing an uphill battle following the Federation's decision not to reappoint him.

``The AMSF decision took me by surprise, because I achieved everything that could reasonably have been expected of me in 2009,'' Erickson said.

Erickson still plans to have a stint in United States this year but his situation will rely on gaining funds to race.

The 22-year-old, who raced in Britain in the UK Formula Ford Championship last season, impressed Mundill racing team's co-owner Jeff Hill and engineer Hunter Wright, despite being unfamiliar with the US tracks and cars.

``It was obvious early, even although it was his first time in the car, that he had excellent car control and we felt we could get him to set the fastest time ever for the track,'' Wright said. ``He has the talent to be competitive. He was able to set lap times that compare to the fastest of the track.''

In his first drive in a wings and slicks openwheeler, Erickson came within 0.2 seconds of breaking the lap record at Houston Raceway's 3.88 kilometre circuit. ``The test went really well, we put out some really quick times considering my experience,'' Erickson said.

``I would love to go back again and race but we will have to see what the future holds hopefully it's a full season of the Star Mazda Championship in America.

``I think that my driving style is more suited to a car with wings than a Formula Ford, which you have to throw around a bit to get the most out of.''

During his stint racing in Britain, the 22-year-old gained much racing experience.

Out of his comfort zone, driving in the Formula Ford races, Erickson didn't take long to adjust to the British style of racing.

``The big difference is the rules, or the tolerance on the rules,'' he said.

``Contact is tolerated a lot more than in Australia with people nudging you out the way to get by. 2009 was a great year, we have had some really good times along with some bad, as all drivers do.

``The tracks have a lot of history in the UK and it is a real excitement to be a part of that history.''

Erickson is seeking supporters to help him achieve his dream of motor racing in the United States.

Details: demotorsport.com.au or 46571033.