It was a rain-drenched start to a new racing season at the 91原创 Quarter Midget Association (LQMA) track in Aldergrove on Sunday, April 2.

Drivers took to the track early in the morning for a practice session to dry out the pavement from a previous shower, but by the time the race was set to begin, the rain had returned, in large amounts, forcing cancellation.

Ken Shrimpton, promotions director for the LQMA, said their membership continues to grow, with 20 new sign-ups for the season bringing the total to 180.

Among the new drivers was Reese Morgan, five, and his dad Jeff, both from Maple Ridge.

Reese was coming off a strong finish in his very first race, a novice practice event held at the track the week before, where he finished third.

Jeff said they discovered the sport courtesy of a friend, whose kids race.

鈥淲e fell in love with the family aspect of it,鈥� Jeff explained.

Aldergrove is home to the only dedicated quarter midget track in Canada.

Quarter midget racing cars are about one-quarter the size of an adult midget car, racing on a track that is a quarter of the adult length.

In addition to safety cages, young quarter midget racers wear protective helmets, neck braces, and fireproof racing gear, and are secured to their seats with a five-point harness.

READ ALSO: VIDEO: American quarter midget racers return to Aldergrove track

This year, the Aldergrove club won the right to hold the Western Grands, an event Shrimpton described as the 鈥淪uper Bowl鈥� of quarter midget racing. It is expected to draw about 250 cars between Aug. 15 and 20, with U.S. and Canadian drivers competing in what is being billed as a 鈥渂order brawl.鈥�

READ ALSO: VIDEO: Racers prepare to resume competition at 91原创 Quarter Midget Association track in Aldergrove

As well, the association will be hosting a 鈥淩acing for Autism Acceptance鈥� race and fundraiser, set for Sunday, May 21.

鈥淲e have a full season lineup of races,鈥� Shrimpton said.

LQMA is a non-profit organization that specializes in car racing for racers aged five to 16.

Those interested in getting more information about the upcoming races, the association, and the sport, can phone 604-856-9621, visit their website , or go to their Facebook page, .

More photos from the day can be viewed online at the .