Autism in Racing founder hails 'a great start' for mentoring programme

Autism in Racing founder Bobby Beevers has hailed "a great start" for its mentoring programme aimed at helping neurodiverse people get jobs in racing.

He thanked all those who have supported the scheme, which was launched in February, and hopes it will go on to bigger and better things next year.

"We wanted to offer autistic individuals the right support, help and guidance to find a career in racing and it's really taken off," said Beevers, whose organisation is a community partner of the Racing Post.

"We've been able to give people opportunities they might not have had previously. It's been a great start and something to build on in 2026 and beyond. We're keen to help more people."

The programme is led by Vanda Latchford, and Beevers said: "She's been absolutely amazing working with people."

Latchford said: "I'm proud to support autistic and neurodivergent people at every stage – from students in training to adults changing careers. Together, we’re creating pathways that reflect ability, passion and potential.

"I help individuals and employers bridge the gap between potential and opportunity – building confidence, understanding and truly inclusive career pathways in racing.

"My work is about helping neurodivergent people find fulfilling roles in racing – whether that’s hands-on with horses, in media, marketing, events, or behind the scenes. It’s also about helping employers see the potential and giving them the tools to support and retain great talent." 

Among those the programme has helped is Louis Barnard, who is keen to get into bloodstock and said: "The programme has given me the confidence and real-world experience I needed to move forward.

"Shadowing Oliver St Lawrence – a leading figure in bloodstock – was genuinely transformative and opened doors to new professional connections for me.

"I’ve learned that reaching out, asking questions and taking the initiative really matters. I now feel able to use my knowledge, skills and strengths to pursue roles in nominations, bloodstock and, eventually, auctioneering – it's an industry I'm truly passionate about.”

Jim Boyle: "I’m proud to support a programme that creates real opportunities for autistic people within our sport."Credit: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos)

Another individual is about to spend time at the yard of trainer Jim Boyle, who said: "I'm proud to support a programme that creates real opportunities for autistic people within our sport.

"Autism in Racing's mentoring initiative is an important step towards making racing more welcoming and inclusive, and I'm looking forward to giving one of their mentees a positive and meaningful experience at the yard."

Beevers is grateful for the support the scheme has received within racing and said: "We have to thank all those people who have helped with the programme and the Racing Foundation, the Peter O'Sullevan Trust, Godolphin, Future Ticketing, Anne Duchess of Westminster's Fund and Pertemps for their generous support – without funding there's no Autism In Racing."

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