Racing in Brooklyn to running in Dubai
As September rolls in, along with browning leaves and colder breezes, we have got our fourth instalment of the Spautism Global Spectrum series to keep you feeling summery inside.
Here are just some of the many stories that caught our eye over the last month from across the world.
Top 10
This is not the first time Armani Williams has featured on Global Spectrum, a 20-year-old who consistently makes headlines as the first autistic NASCAR driver, and has done so again in August. On his home track in Brooklyn, Michigan, the youngster finished 10th in the ARCA Series to register his highest ever NASCAR placing, after a morning in which he featured on national television. Certainly a Sunday for Armani to remember.
Please click here for the full story.
A six-year-old superhero
Ashleigh Stewart, a journalist from Dubai, used her Twitter account to tell the story of Suleman Khan. The six-year-old promised to run 100km, hoping that more children would take up sport as a result. After making his commitment on 12th July, Suleman finished just over a month later, with many local runners having given up time to support him along the way.
Swimming skills
On the Gaza Strip, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, Safaa Nassar managed a swimming summer camp designed for autistic children to develop key skills that are helpful in everyday life, such as cognitive movement and social interaction. Sanaa al-Safadi, the mother of 11-year-old participant Mohammed, has seen her son grow in confidence, while swimming coach Basheer Mushtaha aspires to use this as a turning point for autism opportunities in the local region.
Please click here for the full story.
Best foot forward
Niel Thiart ran an incredible 239km in 48 hours to raise awareness and money for a local autism centre in South Africa – in case you were wondering, that’s almost 5km every hour! Friends supported him as he battled scorching days and cold nights, pushing through the pain barrier, be it from fatigue or injury. When it comes to raising awareness, this Bestmed Athletics Club member seems to have no limits.
Miles for money
From South Africa to North America, and from two feet to two wheels, as Raymond Bryant joined thousands of people in raising money for autism awareness in children by riding 100 miles on his bike in Delaware, USA. Raymond alone generated almost $6,500 from sponsors, more than any other rider, and featured on 47 ABC News.
