Barrier-breaking race car champion with autism to headline 2026 Picnic in the Park celebration

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A very fast friend is helping put the pedal to the metal for one of LA's biggest celebrations for kids with special needs.

Austin Riley, a multi-time champion and first professional race car driver with autism, will join this year's Picnic in the Park on April 18.

The celebration will run from noon to 3 p.m. at Griffith Park's Crystal Springs picnic area.

This free event offers family-friendly park games, music and dancing, plus free food and refreshments.

Click here to RSVP for this year's Picnic in the Park.

The CEO of Jay Nolan Community Services, which organizes the event for Autism Acceptance Month, said news of Riley's appearance is only fueling the excitement.

"He really is incredible," Edward Amey said. "He's already made an incredible contribution because of who he is, and how he chooses to engage the world."

Riley caught attention by becoming Radical Cup North America Champion in 2022.

Off the track, Riley uses his platform to connect with families, children and schools, illustrating a world of possibilities for people in the neurodiverse community.

As he prepares to race for another photo finish in the Revolution Cup North America Championships this summer, Riley said he's excited to make a pit stop in Los Angeles for this year's Picnic in the Park.

"It means a great deal to me to be able to help them raise awareness for autism, which is something I believe in with all of my heart," Riley said.

In addition to signing autographs, Riley will meet and greet with visitors, and share how he navigates life on the race track as a person with autism.

Amey said the annual event draws families from as far as Bakersfield, who are helping to challenge misconceptions and create more opportunities.

"I want to change language from 'those people' to 'my neighbor.' Whenever you do that with anything, you've really changed the game," Amey said. "You've really changed how you see that person, because 'neighbor' is a powerful word, right? It carries a lot."

Jay Nolan Community Services works to empower people with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neurodiverse individuals to live as included and embraced members of our community.

Participants for this year's Picnic in the Park can RSVP here.

Griffith Park is at 4730 Crystal Springs Dr., in Los Angeles.

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