Autism In Racing
What is Autism in Racing?
Autism in Racing supports autistic individuals and young people to feel comfortable and included in the world of horse racing. It focuses on making racing calmer, clearer and more welcoming, without asking people to change who they are.
I’ve never been to horse racing. Will it be overwhelming?
Race days can be loud and busy, but autism-friendly race days are designed differently. They include quieter environments, clearer information before you arrive, and extra support on the day so you know what to expect.
What happens on an autism-friendly race day?
You can get up close to the horses, watch them race, explore the racecourse or take things in from a distance. There is no pressure to do everything. You choose what you feel comfortable with and move at your own pace. You can find more details about autism-friendly race days and when and where they are held.
What if I need space or time out?
That is completely okay. Many events include quiet or sensory rooms where you can step away, reset and return when you are ready.
Will people understand autism?
Yes. Our hosts are trained and understand autism and sensory needs. You can ask questions, get support or have things explained clearly.
Can I see what happens behind the scenes?
Yes. Autism in Racing runs behind-the-scenes visits to racecourses, stables and training yards so young people can learn how racing works and meet the people who care for the horses. Schools and autism groups can get in touch with Autism in Racing directly using one of the contact methods at the end of this article.
What if I am interested in racing but do not know where I fit?
The mentoring programme supports autistic individuals who want to build confidence, learn more or explore interests at their own pace. You can find more information about the mentoring programme.
What is mentoring actually like?
Mentoring is relaxed and supportive. It is about listening, talking things through and asking questions. There is no pressure to make decisions or know what you want to do.
Are there opportunities to shadow people who work in racing?
Yes. Autism in Racing has supported autistic individuals to take part in shadowing opportunities across the racing industry. This has included shadowing bloodstock agents, working alongside racehorse trainers and gaining experience in stable and groundwork roles.
Do I need experience to take part in shadowing or groundwork roles?
No. These opportunities are about learning and building confidence. Some people want to understand what different jobs involve before deciding what suits them. Support is tailored to the individual and placements are matched carefully to interests and comfort levels.
How do I find out what is available near me?
Information about upcoming autism-friendly race days, visits and mentoring opportunities is shared on the Autism in Racing website.
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Case Studies
Family Fixture Day Experience – The Shaw family
Scott Shaw and his son Oliver attend Autism in Racing days together after previously finding racecourses overwhelming. With clear preparation and quiet spaces available, Oliver has been able to experience racing in a way that feels comfortable and supportive. The events have allowed the family to enjoy racing together while building Oliver’s confidence. Scott has spoken publicly about how Autism in Racing has helped make the sport more accessible for families like theirs. You can watch Scott speaking here.
Fixture Day Experience – school and community group visits
A group from Blossom Barns, a farm-based day opportunity supporting adults with learning disabilities and autism, attended the Autism in Racing fixture at Ludlow Racecourse. Seeing the racehorses up close in the paddock and meeting jockeys created real excitement and engagement for the group. The racecourse sensory room provided a calm space when needed, helping visitors enjoy the atmosphere at their own pace. Blossom Barns described the day as a meaningful and inclusive experience and hope to attend again in the future.
Mentoring – Career Opportunities
Louis Barnard joined the Autism in Racing mentoring programme in 2024 through the National Autistic Society, alongside support for his parents. Through mentoring he has developed a neurodivergence profile and received guidance on career pathways, CV development, networking and interview preparation. Autism in Racing also facilitated shadowing opportunities with bloodstock agent Sean Freney and consignor Oliver St Lawrence. These experiences have helped Louis gain valuable insight into the racing industry and build confidence as he explores future career opportunities.
Mentoring – Discovering Career Pathways
Through Autism in Racing mentoring, Ethan began exploring his ambition to become a racehorse trainer. We arranged two-day placements in ticketing and retail at Ascot Racecourse to introduce him to racecourse operations. During the experience, he discovered a strong interest in retail operations while gaining insight into the many career paths within racing. The placement broadened his understanding of the industry while supporting his longer-term training ambitions.
Behind-the-scenes visits – trainers’ yards and community open days
Autism in Racing also creates opportunities for autistic communities to experience racing behind the scenes. Groups have visited training yards including those of leading trainers such as Nicky Henderson and attended events like the Lambourn Open Day. These visits allow participants to meet horses and the people who care for them while learning how racing works day to day. For many attendees, seeing the sport up close helps build confidence, understanding and a stronger connection to the industry.
