Olympian Greg Rutherford Advocates for Autism-Friendly Venues

Rutherford's son has autism, inspiring him to push for more inclusive public spaces.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 7:20am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic motion and power of an Olympic long jump competition, with the athlete's body dissolved into sweeping brushstrokes.Olympian Greg Rutherford's advocacy for autism-friendly public spaces inspires a vibrant, expressive painting capturing the raw energy of his sport.Woburn Today

Former Olympic long jump champion Greg Rutherford is calling for more venues to become autism-friendly after a positive experience at Woburn Safari Park in Massachusetts. Rutherford, whose young son has autism, praised the safari park for its accommodations and understanding staff that made the visit comfortable and enjoyable for his family.

Why it matters

Rutherford's advocacy highlights the need for greater accessibility and inclusion for people with autism and other disabilities at public attractions and events. As a high-profile athlete, his voice can help raise awareness and drive change to make more spaces welcoming for neurodiverse individuals and their families.

The details

Woburn Safari Park implemented several autism-friendly measures, including providing sensory backpacks with noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, and visual schedules. The staff also received specialized training to better understand and accommodate guests with autism. Rutherford praised these efforts, saying the changes made a significant difference in his family's experience.

  • Rutherford visited Woburn Safari Park with his family in March 2026.

The players

Greg Rutherford

A former Olympic long jump champion who is advocating for more autism-friendly public venues after a positive experience at Woburn Safari Park with his son, who has autism.

Woburn Safari Park

A safari park located in Woburn, Massachusetts that has implemented several autism-friendly measures, including providing sensory backpacks and staff training, to create a more inclusive experience for guests.

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What they’re saying

“The staff were amazing, and the backpacks with the noise-cancelling headphones and fidget toys were a lifesaver. It made the whole experience so much more enjoyable for our family.”

— Greg Rutherford, Former Olympic Athlete

What’s next

Rutherford hopes that his positive experience at Woburn Safari Park will inspire other venues to follow suit and make similar accommodations for guests with autism and other disabilities.

The takeaway

Rutherford's advocacy highlights the importance of creating inclusive and accessible public spaces for people with autism and other disabilities. His high-profile support for Woburn Safari Park's autism-friendly initiatives could encourage more venues to prioritize accessibility and inclusion.