Autism in Racing wraps up the year in festive style at Kempton Park

Autism in Racing attendees enjoying the racing at Kempton Park Racecource

Autism in Racing has wrapped up a hugely successful 2025 at Kempton Park, greeting around fifteen families across two days of thrilling action including the legendary King George VI Chase.

AIR’s guests enjoyed an all-round festive day out, including live music and an appearance from The Grinch, who didn’t manage to steal Christmas but did keep mischievously scampering off with people’s hats!

Hosts Rosy and Venessa were delighted to kick off Boxing Day by bumping into one of the world’s greatest jump jockeys and ITV commentator, Sir AP McCoy, who stopped for a selfie to show his support for AIR.

Hosts Vanessa and Rosy with Sir AP McCoy at Kempton Park

The weather was certainly chilly, but the atmosphere on the course was warm and welcoming. Kempton’s generous provision of a dedicated sensory room within the Clubhouse, coupled with Venessa and Rosy’s skilled support throughout the day, offered guests the opportunity to experience the thrill of racing in a safe, accessible and inclusive environment.

Alongside the permanent sensory room with a balcony view of the finish line, AIR was joined by Sensory Emergency; a converted ambulance housing a calming space for anyone in need of a few moments away from the main event.

Attendees praised the availability of two distinct spaces to cater for diverse needs; one father crediting the initiative as the only reason they had been able to enjoy the whole day, rather than heading home when their son became overwhelmed in the crowds. Two friends also remarked on how comfortable their daughters felt in the sensory room, and their joint ambition to be jockeys of the future – a dream further inspired by visiting Kempton.

All in all, our final fixture of the year was filled with excitement, enthusiasm and passion for the sport, with just the right sprinkling of festive cheer. We would like to send heartfelt thanks to all our supporters for their part in AIR’s achievements during 2025. And here’s to 2026, as we look forward to an even bigger year for the team but most importantly, for autistic individuals and families and their involvement in racing.

Child utilising the Sensory Emergency Ambulance at Kempton Park Racecourse