In a joint effort between Colonial Park and the Autism Society of Central Virginia, the New Kent oval hosted its first Autism-inclusive 'Summer Shindig' on Sunday, July 26. Approximately 200 families attended where organizers provided sensory games, community activities and an inclusive environment for attendees.“Everyone's welcome at Colonial Downs,” said Colonial Downs Racing Marketing Manager Bella Hodge when asked about the day's mission. “We love having all different types of groups out to the track and showing everybody that there is a place at the track for everyone.”Attendees also enjoyed access to complimentary Jockey Club dining accommodations, stick horse races, a petting zoo in addition to having a race named for organization. Additionally, the group had the opportunity to meet racetrack announcer Jason Beem as well as receiving an impromptu tour of the TV control room.“Jason explained his whole process–his colored pencils, coloring the silks before the race and the binoculars were a highlight for those members that got to come up,” Hodge explained. Then the camera guys and the TV crew invited them into the studio. They gave them a closer look at the cameras and let them see the TV control room, which was probably the highlight of the day, for me at least. It was cool.According to Hodge, the U.K.'s Autism In Racing's vast experience at hosting Autism-friendly events at racecourses proved invaluable in organizing its inaugural event stateside.“Autism In Racing gave me a lot of good ideas,” said Hodge. “They filtered information to us on what's worked in the past and helped us with how the event could function and be beneficial to everyone.”She continued, “And then the Autism Society of Central Virginia kind of spearheaded the event, bringing their members out and creating a member event that would work for them and function well for their group.”Hodge explained that several adjustments were made for the day, including adjusting the volume in the dining area in an effort to make the environment comfortable for its participants.Hodge indicated the afternoon's success underscored the fundamental philosophy at Colonial Downs.“It's a good way [for the Autistic community] to be introduced into a new environment where the kids may really enjoy spending the day and seeing there's an opportunity to come out to the racetrack,” said Hodge. “Even if we're not hosting a big event, they can come out on any day and have a great time.”The post Colonial Downs Hosts Inaugural Autism-Friendly Day at the Races appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.