Alexander Vinokurov attended a training session featuring children with autism from the film “Aut”.
The young athletes are the protagonists of the documentary film about autism Aut (“Out”), directed by Kanat Beisekeev with the support of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation.
Renowned Kazakh athlete, Olympic champion, and member of the Board of Trustees of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, Alexander Vinokurov, attended a training session with children with autism who train at the Velolegend cycling club.
The film tells the story of children with autism spectrum disorder, their journey in sports, overcoming barriers, and finding their place in society.
Despite his busy schedule, Alexander Vinokurov made time to meet the children in person, observe the training process, and speak with both the athletes and their coaches. According to him, the film Aut (“Out”) made a deep impression on him.
“The film Aut (“Out”) touched me deeply. These children are real fighters. Their achievements in sports, their perseverance, and their love of life command great respect. It was important for me to meet them personally, to support them, and to show that they are not alone. Sport offers tremendous opportunities for socialization and unlocking potential, and I am glad to see how it works here in practice,” — Alexander Vinokurov shared.
The training sessions are conducted under the guidance of experienced coach Kairat Khaldybek, who has been working with children and adolescents for many years, helping them develop their physical abilities and personal qualities through sport.
“This meeting is a huge event and a powerful source of motivation for our children. When someone like Alexander Vinokurov comes to support them, it gives them confidence and belief in themselves. We see how sport changes them, making them stronger, more disciplined, and happier,” — noted Kairat Khaldybek, coach of the Velolegend club.
The premiere of the documentary film directed by Kanat Beisekeev took place in Astana and Almaty in January 2026. Supporting the film became a continuation of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation’s long-term, systematic work in the field of assistance to children with autism and their families. One of the Foundation’s key initiatives is the program “Autism. One World for All”, under which a network of 13 Asyl Miras centers has been operating in 12 cities across Kazakhstan since 2014. Over the years, more than 20,000 children and their parents have received support through the program.
“For us, it is important not only to talk about autism, but to stand alongside children and their families, helping them feel support and confidence in their own strength. The film Aut (“Out”) tells sincere stories of these children — their journey, their dreams, and their achievements — and helps society truly see them. We are sincerely grateful to Alexander Vinokurov for his attention, involvement, and the warm meeting with our children. For them, this is a great source of inspiration and an important sign of acceptance,” — said Ainur Karbozova, CEO of Bulat Utemuratov Foundation.