Sensory-friendly karting event held for people with autism in Mississauga
Published May 2, 2024 at 1:25 pm
A recent event in Mississauga allowed those with sensory sensitivities to enjoy a relaxed karting experience.
K1 Speed Canada held its first sensory-friendly karting event at its Mississauga location, 1330 Eglinton Ave. E. The event aimed to provide a unique and inclusive karting experience for individuals with sensory sensitivities, in line with Autism Awareness Month in April.
K1 partnered with Autism Speaks Canada and Racing with Autism to hold the event on March 24.
Recognizing the challenges faced by individuals with sensory sensitivities, K1 Speed Canada, in collaboration with Autism Speaks Canada, took proactive measures to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable environment for all participants.
Capacity was reduced to minimize sensory overload, and the volume of music was lowered to create a quieter atmosphere.
Staff members also underwent special training provided by Autism Speaks Canada to better understand and support individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other sensory sensitives.
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Sensory and quiet rooms were also available, offering participants a space to take a break and recharge in a calm and soothing environment.
“The K1 Speed team was fantastic,” said Andrea Smith, a parent of one of the participants. “Their dedication and commitment to ensuring not only the safety of the drivers but their unwavering compassion for their needs is immeasurable.”
The event saw a good turnout of families and individuals with neuro-diverse conditions, according to organizers.
“It was incredibly touching to see participants of all ages and abilities enjoy the thrill of karting in a setting tailored to their sensory needs,” said Kevin Abela, general manager of K1 Speed Mississauga.
K1 Speed Canada also presented a $2,000 donation to Autism Speaks Canada.
Moreover, K1 Speed Canada sponsored Austin Riley, Canada’s first autistic race car driver and the founder of Racing with Autism. The Riley family was actively involved and played a pivotal role throughout the event.
“This has always been a dream of mine, and to see that dream come to reality was a very emotional moment for me,” said Jason Riley, Austin’s father.
“One of my favourite parts of the event was seeing the joy and pride on parents’ faces as they watched their children whizz by, regardless of their speed. It’s the same joy and pride I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing for the last 16 years with autism.”
There are no official plans yet for another sensory-friendly karting event but K1 expects to organize a similar event in the future.
See the K1 Speed Canada website for more information.
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