AIKEN — The 83rd running of the historic Aiken Trials horse races is set for Saturday, March 14, at the Aiken Training Track, kicking off the first event in Aiken’s Triple Crown. Gates open at 10 a.m. with ceremonies starting at 11:30 a.m. and the first race at noon.
“Aiken Trials is a fun Spring tradition for families to experience races of young horses and ponies,” said Barry Bornstein, Aiken Training Track board member and long-time equestrian photographer, in a news release. “Hat and tailgate contests add a lot of colorful festivity to the day.”
A variety of vendors and food trucks add to the experience.
Since 1942, the event has given young horses in training the opportunity to experience every aspect of live racing. This has become a time-honored tradition as the first leg of Aiken’s Triple crown, held annually for three consecutive Saturdays in March. The Aiken Steeplechase and Pacers & Polo make up the other two events.
The Aiken Trials draw upwards of 10,000 spectators. The program includes races for two-year-olds and maidens (horses that may have started in a race, but have never won), running a 1/4 mile to 4 1/2 furlongs, and for older horses that have already won a race. Pony races, ladies side saddle and a polo pony race will also be on the card. The jockeys typically are local exercise riders who have an afternoon in the spotlight after paying their dues exercising horses each morning (in all weather) throughout the year.
Tickets are available locally at select Aiken retailers and visitor locations: Aiken Training Track Office (803-648-4631), Aiken Saddlery, Odell Weeks Activity Center, Local Threads, and all Security Federal Bank locations. General admission is $25 per person; Children 10 and under are free; parking pass is $25 per vehicle.
Viewing stands are provided. For more information, visit Aikentrials.com.
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