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Yahoo
2 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
A look back at the Autism in Racing event at Chepstow
Former jump jockey John Kington rode only one winner at Chepstow during his riding career but added another to that tally at the track last week. Kington retired last year, but was lured back into the saddle for a charity race as Chepstow staged its Autism in Racing raceday on Thursday. Cathy Gannon, Mattie Batchelor, Stephen Hunter and Gordon 'Flash' Power also took part, although it was Kington, who rode for around 20 years, who was smiling. He was aboard Baikal, who is trained locally by Grace Harris, and the pair enjoyed a prominent position before holding on gamely. The event was one of around 75 Autism in Racing has planned on and off course for 2025 and its founder Bobby Beevers said: 'We would like to thank Chepstow for staging this day. It's a big funding day and we also thank DragonBet for their very kind sponsorship of the race.' Harris was out of luck with her runner in one of the card's regulation races as Too Much Trevor could finish only third in the mile handicap won by Rod Millman's Arjad. Despite being six lengths behind that rival, Too Much Trevor still ran respectably, although he has yet to win a race in 23 starts. Monmouthshire trainers Christopher Mason and Thomas Faulkner also had to make do with placed finishes on the bill with Gilt Edge coming second for the former in the 7f handicap. The Faulkner-trained Mighty Gurkha, meanwhile, was third in handicap for apprentice riders. Joint-trainers Richard Newland and Jamie Insole took the feature through Cloudbuster, who was ridden by Hollie Doyle. A trip to Bath paid off for Ron Harris, another of the region's trainers who has struck gold with winning machine Moe's Legacy in the last few weeks. Her winning run started at Bath on July 16 and she then won at Salisbury a week later before another successful strike at Bath. A defeat at Newbury at the start of August was next, but the four-year-old kept on well under Trevor Whelan to regain the winning thread. She is the only horse to have won for Harris this season and could be worth following when she next appears. Hopefully the weather plays ball for Chepstow's family fun day meeting next week, which takes place on bank holiday Monday. Seven races are programmed with the first at 1.53pm and the last at 5.23pm, while the gates open at 11.50am. The non-stop family entertainment includes meet-and-greet sessions with storybook characters The Gruffalo and Zog, a live set from MC Grammar, activities for children and funfair rides. There will also be football freestyler on track and a rugby skills zone, plus areas for picnics, while there is the added bonus of two pony races (12.35pm and 12.55pm) before the thoroughbred action starts. Ffos Las officials will be keen for good weather too for their ladies' day on Friday, when the gates open at 12.10pm for a 2.10pm start.
South Wales Argus
14-08-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Chepstow races sees retired jockeys back in the saddle for autism
Retired jockeys will return to the saddle for a cause close to the heart of the racing community, raising awareness and funds for autism support within the sport. The highlight of Thursday, August 14, will be a one-mile charity race featuring 12 former professional riders, including familiar names such as Jimmy Quinn, Franny Norton, Cathy Gannon, and Stephen Hunter. This initiative is part of a wider campaign founded by sports broadcaster Bobby Beevers, whose goal is to make horse racing more inclusive for autistic individuals. Autism in Racing offers sensory-friendly spaces at racecourses, mentoring opportunities, and educational outreach, helping to foster understanding and break down barriers within the sport. The event aims to raise £30,000 through sponsorships and donations, which will support the expansion of Autism in Racing's programmes across the UK. Spectators can enjoy six flat races throughout the afternoon, with gates opening at 12:30 PM and the first race starting at 2:30 PM. Families are encouraged to attend. Children under 17 are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Horses have long played a role in autism therapy. Their rhythmic movement and non-verbal connection can help build emotional regulation, communication, and confidence. Interaction with horses is often calming and grounding, reducing anxiety and improving social skills. Professor Temple Grandin, a renowned autistic scientist and animal behaviourist, has spoken extensively about the therapeutic value of horses. Her empathy with animals and visual thinking revolutionised livestock handling worldwide. Her life and work were portrayed in a biopic, highlighting how animal interaction, especially with horses, can unlock potential and support meaningful growth for people with autism. Racing broadcaster and organiser Bobby Beevers shared the personal inspiration behind the event: 'This all started when our daughter, Sophia, was diagnosed with autism during lockdown. 'My wife said more things should be made accessible to autistic people, and we combined that with our love of horses. 'Since then, the racing world has really embraced the idea, and we want to thank everyone who has helped. You can help too, by attending at Chepstow.' Whether you're a racing enthusiast or simply want to support a meaningful cause, this is a day not to be missed. Come cheer on the heroes of the track as they ride again—for inclusion, awareness, and the future of racing.
