Community Event in Newmarket
Pony Power, Confidence and Smiles at Newmarket Pony Academy
A warm, inclusive day of pony care, riding, confidence building and family connection with Autism In Racing.
A calm, welcoming space for families
Autism In Racing was delighted to return to Newmarket Pony Academy for another incredibly special Autism Friendly Day, welcoming both returning and first-time families for a relaxed and inclusive experience centred around horses, confidence and connection.
Set against the backdrop of a hot and sunny day in Newmarket, families enjoyed a carefully planned programme of activities designed to create a calm and supportive environment where neurodivergent children and young people could engage at their own pace.
Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to meet the ponies, enjoy gentle riding sessions, take part in grooming activities and learn more about pony care in a welcoming and understanding setting.
For many families, these experiences are far more than simply a fun day out. They provide opportunities to build confidence, overcome anxieties, try new experiences and create positive family memories without fear of judgement or sensory overwhelm.
Welfare and wellbeing came first
With temperatures rising throughout the day, both participant wellbeing and animal welfare remained a key priority. Activities were carefully adapted to ensure the ponies remained comfortable and cared for in the heat, with no strenuous exercise taking place. Many activities, including grooming and interaction sessions, were held in shaded areas so both families and ponies could enjoy the day safely and comfortably.
One of the highlights of the day was seeing so many new families attend for the first time and leave already excited to return. The feedback shared afterwards demonstrated just how meaningful these opportunities can be for neurodivergent individuals and their families.
“Thank you to everyone for putting this on, it was our first time and can 100% say we will be back.” Juliette
What can happen in the right environment
One of the most powerful moments from the day came from Oliver and his family. After the event, Kaytlin shared how much the experience had meant to them and how different it felt to see Oliver so settled, happy and able to take part.
For Autism In Racing, this is exactly why carefully supported, autism-friendly environments matter.
“It honestly was the best few hours. I’ve never seen Oliver like that before. It’s amazing what can be done in the right environment.” Kaytlin
Oliver’s experience captured the spirit of the day perfectly. From meeting the ponies to taking part in the riding activities, the right support helped create a positive, memorable experience for the whole family.
“He had the best time!” Kaytlin
These moments remind us that inclusion is not just about opening the door. It is about creating the right conditions for families to feel safe, understood and able to enjoy new experiences together.
For many children, the day was about much more than simply riding a pony. It was about finding confidence in themselves, feeling supported and achieving something they may once have thought impossible.
“The support you gave Stan to get him to actually stay on the horse so he could ride was just amazing. Never seen him look as proud of himself before.” Sarah
These moments reflect exactly why Autism In Racing continues to create accessible opportunities within racing and equestrian environments. Horses have an incredible ability to provide calm, routine, emotional connection and confidence-building experiences that can be transformative for many neurodivergent individuals.
A message from Jane Buick
“It is incredibly special to see children and families feel relaxed, supported and able to enjoy experiences like this together. Horses have such a unique way of building confidence and connection, and seeing so many smiles throughout the day really shows how important accessible opportunities like these are.”Jane Buick
Autism In Racing Ambassador
A huge thank you goes to the dedicated volunteers who gave their time to lead ponies, support families and help the day run so smoothly despite the warm conditions. Their kindness, patience and enthusiasm made a huge difference to everyone attending.
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the wonderful team at Newmarket Pony Academy for once again making families feel so welcome, for their thoughtful approach to accessibility and animal welfare, and for providing such a warm and inclusive environment throughout the day.
What families said after the day
Feedback from families following the Autism Friendly Day at Newmarket Pony Academy highlighted just how meaningful accessible, understanding environments can be for neurodivergent children and their families.
“Thank you to everyone for putting this on, it was our first time and can 100% say we will be back. My children had the best time and are now all asking to do pony riding.”
Juliette“Thank you for such a lovely morning. Really appreciate the effort put in especially on such a hot day. Guy had the best time and has talked about it non stop since being home.”
Lindsay“Thank you so much for having us again, we had a lovely time. The children all did so well with the heat and a huge thanks to the volunteers that worked so hard to make it a seamless day.”
Gemma“Most amazing morning thank you so much. The support you gave Stan to get him to actually stay on the horse so he could ride was just amazing. Never seen him look as proud of himself before.”
Sarah“It honestly was the best few hours. I’ve never seen Oliver like that before. It’s amazing what can be done in the right environment.”
KaytlinAs Autism In Racing continues to expand its community and equine-based opportunities across the country, days like this remain a powerful reminder of the positive impact that inclusive environments can have on neurodivergent individuals and their families.
We cannot wait to return for more smiles, more milestones and even more pony power in the future.
Help us create more moments like this
Every donation, fundraiser and community challenge helps Autism In Racing continue creating inclusive opportunities for neurodivergent individuals and families through autism-friendly race days, equine experiences and mentoring programmes.
