Sam Holness, a 30-year-old autistic man who trains in Richmond Park, is lining up to compete in London's Royal Parks Half Marathon.

Sam, from Kingston, is an ambassador for the national charity Ambitious about Autism and shares its mission to encourage autistic children and young people to reach their full potential.

The Royal Parks Half Marathon, taking place on Sunday 8 October, is an opportunity for Sam to demonstrate his athletic prowess while inspiring autistic children and young people in his capacity as a sporting role model. He is aiming to complete the race in less than 80 minutes.

Through his work with Ambitious about Autism, Sam helps to raise awareness of autism and promote a better understanding and acceptance of autistic children and young people in society.

Sam said: "I'm really looking forward to this race. It's important to me because it is an example that autistic people, like me, can successfully participate in sport. I plan to finish in under 80 minutes, which is considered a good time for an experienced runner like me.

"It's essential for me to set myself challenging goals in life and help motivate other autistic people to do likewise."

Sam's father, Tony, who coaches and manages him, is one of his biggest supporters. He said: "It's so important for Sam to participate in this event. Every time that he crosses a finishing line you can see the sense of accomplishment, especially if he achieves a personal best.

"Sam is teaching others about commitment and overcoming adversity. Too many people told him that he wouldn't achieve anything, this race will continue to prove the doubters wrong."

Danae Leaman-Hill, Director of External Affairs and Development at Ambitious about Autism, said: "Sam is a wonderful ambassador for Ambitious about Autism and the wider autistic community. He's setting an example to autistic children and young people by achieving his own personal goals and challenging wider society's preconceptions of autism."

Ambitious about Autism has forged close ties with Kingston following the opening of its autism-specific school in September this year. Spring School, based in Norbiton, currently supports 36 pupils to learn, thrive and achieve through its ambitious social and academic curriculum.

Beginning and ending at Hyde Park, the Royal Parks Half Marathon takes place against the backdrop of famous London landmarks including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and the Royal Albert Hall.

The 13.1km route incorporates an additional three of the eight Royal Parks – The Green Park, St James's Park and Kensington Gardens. Established in 2008, it is the first and only half marathon that runs through the centre of London.

For more information about Ambitious about Autism or to find out more about taking on a challenge in support of the charity's work, please visit: www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk or email [email protected].