Campaign Ambassador - Lee Wood

Name: Lee Wood

Sports/Activities: Cycling and Running

Locality: Welwyn Hatfield

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I am a third-generation cyclist, so sport has always been part of my life. For many years, however, running became my focus. I started around 2014, and when I was diagnosed with autism in 2021, running became even more important. During a period where I experienced mental health struggles, it became my safe place, the only social outlet where I felt I could breathe, think and just be myself.

As I continued through recovery, I realised I needed more than just running, so I began volunteering with the National Autistic Society. It gave me purpose and connection, but I still faced challenges: sensory overload at mass-participation running events and stereotypical assumptions from others about what I was capable of because of my disability.

What helped me through that period were the people who stood beside me. My partner was a constant source of strength, and the National Autistic Society gave me a community where I felt understood. My friend Alex at the London Marathon provided support when I needed it most, and the friends I made at Parkrun made every Saturday morning feel like a place where I finally belonged. Those people, those moments, and that encouragement reminded me that my voice matters — and that advocating for autistic people is something I want to continue doing.

Looking ahead, I intend to keep raising awareness and helping others understand what autistic athletes experience. I will continue running the London Marathon with a disability place and using my journey to show that autistic people are strong, capable and deserving of inclusive sporting spaces. If my story can help even one person feel seen or supported, then it’s worth every step I’ve taken.

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Lee recently completed the London Marathon in April 2026, running in support of the National Autistic Society. The National Autistic Society have since been named as the charity of the year for the upcoming London Marathon in 2027 and Lee features in their promotional video alongside some other high profile autistic athletes.

Watch below!

https://www.autism.org.uk/london-marathon