JQMV Arrive & Hire Family Feature

Interview with Harvey’s family about their first steps into quarter midget racing

JQMV recently sat down with Harvey and his family to talk about their experience with the Arrive & Hire program, how they got started, and what the journey has been like so far.

⸻

What made you decide to try an Arrive & Hire experience in the first place?

“Harvey has wanted to try quarter midgets since he was two and a half. Once he turned five, he asked every single day when he could start racing. We weren’t sure if he’d actually enjoy it, so we held off on buying one. Thanks to Australian Racing Products [ARP] and Peter & Ellen, a quarter midget became available for hire. Amanda and Darren O’Brien gave us a call to let us know, and we hired it that weekend down at Nyora. Harvey had the best time ever, so we decided to hire it again!”

⸻

How did your child react after their very first laps?

“On Harvey’s first lap he was so nervous, but once he got a feel for the car and realized it wasn’t scary, he really got into it even though he was still slow. I was so thankful for the novice drivers who knew he was new, gave him space, and went around him. That helped Harvey understand that as long as he stuck to his line, he’d be okay.”

⸻

Was there a moment during Arrive & Hire when you thought, ‘We’re going to be doing this every weekend’?

“I think after Harvey’s second race, when he came off the track grinning from ear to ear and couldn’t stop talking about it, Ross and I looked at each other and knew this is what he loves, this is his thing. So, bring on the racing weekends!”

⸻

What convinced you to purchase a quarter midget after trying it?

“We decided to purchase a quarter midget because Harvey’s face says it all the smile, the confidence, the nonstop talking about it and telling everyone he knows. Plus, everyone has been so family-friendly and welcoming. It’s something we all enjoy together as a family.”

⸻

How have you found the club community and support from other families?

“Oh, I don’t even know where to start I could go on for hours! But here’s a small list.
First, a huge thank you to the O’Brien family Amanda & Darren, and Lewis (aka ‘Lewis driver’ to Harvey). If it wasn’t for these amazing people, we wouldn’t be where we are today. They gave a lot of advice and support in picking the right a quarter midget to purchase.
A massive thank you as well to Shannon & Nicky for helping us get Harvey ready to race his own quarter midget.
And thank you to everyone else who made us feel welcome from day one. We had no idea what we were doing, and people jumped in to help — offering advice, adjusting things, even helping move pedals (thank you, Shane Roycroft!).
Once you’re on the infield, it’s incredible how every parent dads and mums will run out to help push a kart off just to keep the race going.
It still gives me goosebumps about the kids… wow! The way they support each other is unbelievable. After every race, they congratulate one another, encourage each other, and they do it all on their own — no parents prompting them. It’s absolutely incredible.
I couldn’t have asked to be part of a better club community. The support from all the families no matter the class, whether you own a kart or are hiring is amazing. Harvey, Ross, and I have truly made friendships that will last forever.”

⸻

How helpful was the Arrive & Hire program in giving you a proper taste of the sport?

“Hiring is super easy! Just get in touch with Peter at ARP — he’ll let you know which days and tracks are available and how to apply for a license. When you hire a quarter midget, all the gear you need is included.
Ellen will meet you at the track with the kart and gear and give you a quick rundown of what to do before the race, and any other requirements. If you’re new, don’t worry — ask as many questions as you need!
It’s a really fun way to see if your child enjoys racing and to get a real taste of the sport.”

⸻

What would you tell other families about the Arrive & Hire experience?

“The experience is super easy and really fun! If you’re new to racing, though, I’d definitely do a bit of homework first. Read up, and don’t be afraid to ask JQMV or Peter at ARP any questions — you’ll get way more out of it that way.
Everyone at the track is super helpful, but knowing a little beforehand makes things smoother. We were lucky to have friends and family already into racing before we tried it — made everything a lot less intimidating and way more enjoyable.”

⸻

Do you see yourselves involved in quarter midget racing long-term?

“We can see ourselves being part of quarter midget racing for a long time. No matter where he finishes, as long as he gets off the track smiling and saying he had the best day, we’re happy. We’ll keep going to every or almost every track we can.”

⸻

Any advice for parents thinking about doing their first Arrive & Hire?

“My advice? Just have fun! Make friends, be part of this awesome racing club, and let the kids be kids — racing around, laughing, and enjoying time with their friends on the track. Don’t stress about results or finishing positions; the best part is seeing your child happy, smiling, and having the time of their life.
Ask questions, learn a little about the sport, everyone is super welcoming and happy to help.
It’s such a great way to spend time together as a family, share in the excitement, and be part of a fun, supportive club. Give it a try — it really can’t hurt!
We’re so glad we took the leap and started this fun adventure. There’s nothing quite like watching your kid come off the track grinning from ear to ear and saying, ‘That was the best day ever!’”