IndyCar Series champion Scott Dixon was named New Zealand Sportsman of the Year during the 51st Halberg Awards program Feb. 12 in Auckland. The Halberg Awards recognize the country's top sporting achievements.

Dixon, who was reared in New Zealand and lives in Indianapolis, earned his third IndyCar Series championship in 2013 driving the No. 9 Target Chip Ganassi Racing car. Four victories during the season pushed Dixon's career total to 33, making him the active leader. Al Unser Jr. (34 wins) and Bobby Unser (35) are next on the list.

Dixon also was named Sportsman of the Year following his second IndyCar Series championship season, which included a victory in the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race, in 2008.

Dixon, who was participating in a Chevrolet manufacturer test at Sonoma Raceway in California, said via video link that the award was "a huge honor." He credited New Zealand's "never give up attitude" for pushing him to the top of the IndyCar Series standings after 19 races.

"It's always a huge honor and a real privilege to represent New Zealand," he said. "I hope to be (at the awards program) next year."

Dixon started his racing career in karting and captured two championships in the New Zealand Formula Vee series. After competing in Australia and New Zealand, which included a championship in the class I Formula Ford Series and Rookie of the Year award in the Australian Formula Holden Championship, Dixon moved on to Dayton Indy Lights series in North America. 

The IndyCar Series season starts March 30 with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.