James Lovatt’s story is one of misunderstanding, vulnerability, and shame—until he began to understand himself through the lens of neurodivergence. Now a competitive rider and passionate advocate for neurodiversity, James reflects on the toll of masking, the dangers of unsafe systems in sport, and the healing power of self-awareness and support.

Michelle Lau is a world-ranked amateur golfer, software developer, and proud Autistic woman. Her journey into elite disability golf began after seeing the work of Neurodiverse Sport—proof that visibility and representation can change lives. In this powerful blog, Michelle opens up about delayed diagnosis, sensory overwhelm, masking, and what it took—physically and emotionally—to finish her first world-ranked tournament. Her story reminds us that success and struggle often walk hand in hand.

Peter Barnes never received a formal diagnosis—but his reflections on ADHD and neurodivergence offer powerful insight into how self-understanding, adaptability, and resilience can reshape both life and sport. From exclusion in school PE to carving out a lifelong passion for cycling, Peter’s story challenges rigid sporting systems and calls for more human-centred, flexible approaches to coaching and inclusion.

What does real inclusion look like in sport? In this follow-up to Maria’s Story, we explore the launch of the Virtus ii3 category—a game-changing step for Autistic athletes without intellectual impairment. This blog breaks down what ii3 is, why it matters, and what lessons we can learn from Maria Kjer Rasmussen’s journey through exclusion, representation, and resilience.

Maria Kjer Rasmussen is a 16-year-old para swimmer from Denmark competing in the new Virtus ii3 category. Diagnosed with Autism (without intellectual impairment), dyslexia, and facing early exclusion from mainstream systems, Maria's story is one of rediscovery through sport. With the help of her family and a one-to-one coach, she found freedom, safety, and purpose in the water—proving what’s possible when a neurodivergent athlete is truly seen, supported, and believed in.

Michael Barton is a national Judo medallist, data analyst, author, and Autistic advocate who proves that structure, support, and self-awareness can be a winning combination. Diagnosed early in life and initially non-verbal, Michael’s journey challenges assumptions about neurodivergence in sport—showing how explicitly taught skills, routine, and the right environment can empower Autistic athletes to thrive.

In part two of triathlete Tom Epton’s journey, we explore the formula behind his success—freedom, structure, curiosity, and purpose. Diagnosed with ADHD as a child, Tom shares how understanding his brain has allowed him to thrive in elite sport, education, and business. This blog highlights the hidden strengths of neurodivergent athletes and what they need to succeed.

From school exclusions to international podiums, triathlete Tom Epton shares how a childhood diagnosis of ADHD shaped his journey in life and sport. His reflections on behaviour, belief, and building the right support system are a powerful reminder of what neurodivergent athletes can achieve when they're truly understood.

Sarah Hope is a former GB wheelchair basketball player and para ice hockey athlete. Diagnosed with autism and hereditary peripheral neuropathy, Sarah shares a powerful story of resilience, burnout, and finding belonging. From masking and misunderstanding to self-advocacy and structure, her journey challenges sport to do better—and reminds us of the strength found in lived experience.

Diagnosed with dyslexia and dyspraxia, and awaiting autism assessment, cyclist Connie Hayes has ridden at the Women’s Tour of Britain—but her toughest battles haven’t been on the road. From masking at school to meltdowns in elite teams, Connie shares how neurodivergence shaped her path through sport—and what changed when she finally found a team that understood her.

Patrick Chorley is a rower, cox, and climber diagnosed with dyslexia, dyspraxia, and ADHD. This blog explores how Patrick found freedom in movement, resilience in rejection, and success in forging his own inclusive path—challenging traditional definitions of athleticism and showing that neurodivergence is not a limitation, but a different kind of strength.

Sam Holness is the first openly autistic athlete to compete in the Ironman World Championships—and he’s not done yet. With a 13-hour finish time, unwavering family support, and a training ethic that puts most to shame, Sam’s story is a reminder of what’s possible when we replace limits with belief. This blog explores his journey, mindset, and what sport—and society—can learn from “The Sam Effect.”

Olympian Anne-Sophie Thilo shares how her High Intellectual Potential helped her problem-solve and strategise her way to the top of international sailing—while also leaving her socially isolated and emotionally misunderstood. Her story challenges what it means to be an athlete, why neuroinclusion matters, and how sport can better support those who think—and feel—differently.

Strongman athlete Alfie Poyser opens up about late ADHD diagnosis, finding belonging through lifting, and how the sport’s vibrant, authentic culture has helped him thrive. A story of personality, perseverance, and the power of being different – this was our very first Neurodiverse Sport blog, and it’s still one of the most inspiring.