Aiken Training Track to Host Season Opener March 14

The Aiken Training Track will host the 83rd Running of the Aiken Trials on March 14. Four thoroughbred races will take place. Gates open at 10 a.m., and the first race begins at noon. The competition will kick off the Aiken Triple Crown.

The afternoon card showcases the Coward Trophy, Gaver Trophy, City of Aiken Trophy, and Iselin Hall of Fame Trophy. These contests span from 4.5 furlongs to a mile.

"The weather had a lot to do with it," said Suzy Haslup, a track vice president, according to the Aiken Standard. Freezing temperatures during winter disrupted morning exercise routines for horses stabled in South Carolina. The 2-year-olds fell behind in learning skills needed for racing. "They just weren't ready," said Haslup.

The event has been held nearly every year since 1942. This year's competition will also include one race for polo ponies named the von Stade Trophy, one for women riding sidesaddle on horses, and several for children riding ponies.

General admission wristbands cost $25 in advance and at the gate. Parking passes are also $25 each. Children 10 years of age and younger get in free.

Tickets and parking passes can be bought in advance at the track office, H. Odell Weeks Activities Center, Aiken Saddlery, Local Threads/White Rose Eclectics, and all Security Federal Bank locations. Both will be available at the gate, but only cash will be accepted as payment.

The track is located at 538 Two Notch Road S.E. More information is available at aikentrainingtrack.com or on the track's Facebook page. The phone number is 803-648-4631.