Triple Crown 2014

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Aiken Triple Crown

Aiken Trials March 15

page 12

Spring Steeplechase March 22

page 16

Pacers & Polo March 29

page 30

2014

www.aikenstandard.com


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Aiken Triple Crown Aiken Standard2:Saturday, March 8, 2014


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Aiken Triple CrownAiken Standard Saturday, March 8, 2014:3S

AIKEN STANDARD FILE PHOTO

Janice Freeland holds her dyed-blue teacup poodle, Mar-tini, at last years Pacers & Polo event.


Fraser Hazen, left, and his brother Walker put on their bestsmiles for last years Aiken Spring Steeplechase.


Emmie Furman has fun with a hula hoop while tailgatingat last years Aiken Trials.

A Heros Welcome :CelebratingAiken-trained racehorse Palace Malice | 4

Name origins:Where did the monikerAiken Triple Crown come from? | 8

Tweet it:Share what youre up to atthis years Aiken Triple Crown events withofficial #hashtags | 10

The First Jewel:The Aiken Trials dateback to 1942 | 12

The Second Jewel: The SpringSteeplechase is an Aiken tradtition | 16

Dont forget:Items for yourSteeplechase emergency kit | 18

Gala:Blossoms and Bow Ties | 19

Signature cocktails:Stir up somespecial drinks for this years events |20

Embellish: Aiken resident Sissy Brodieshares Steeplechase fashion tips |22

Silks:Colors and patterns apivotal part of horse racing |23

Carriages:See history in motionduring parades of antique carriages |24Caring for horses: Veterinarians

play key role on Steeplechase race day |26

Economic engine: Aiken TripleCrown draws thousands to area |28

Public safety: Officers prepare tokeep events safe, fun |29

The Third Jewel: Pacers & Polo raisesfunds for USC Aiken scholarships | 30

Jump, jump:The joys of stompingthe divots at annual polo game | 33

Bookworm: Check out these readsabout horses and their handlers | 37

Winter Colony:Warm climate, sandysoil attract ambitious equestrians | 38

Table of Contents


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BY BEN BAUGH

[email protected]

Dogwood Stables Palace Malice didnt win

his rst race, but there was something thatsuggested he was more than just your average2-year-old.

However, the fact that he didnt win his rstrace may have been a blessing in disguise.

The son of two-time Horse of the Year Cur-lin placed second in his debut in 2012, a vefurlong race at Belmont Park, beaten only bya half-length, indicating that bigger thingswere on the horizon.

The correct assessmentThe Aiken-based stables connections

were right in their evaluation as the bay colt,who spent six weeks in Aiken with LegacyStables trainer Brad Stauffer after beingpurchased by Dogwood Stable from the con-signment of Niall Brennan for $200,000 atthe 2012 Keeneland April Two-Year-Olds inTraining Sale, appeared to be living up to hisexpectations.

The colt, trained at the racetrack by six-timeEclipse Award winning trainer Todd Pletcher,would break his maiden easily during hisjuvenile campaign on Aug. 4, 2012, with thewin coming at historic Saratoga Race Course.

However, Palace Malices career hasntbeen without adversity, and in preparationfor his next scheduled start, the Grade 2Hopeful Stakes at Saratoga, the precociouscolt bucked his shins. The injury meant t imeaway from the races, but the layoff seemedonly to add to what would be a remarkablesophomore campaign.

The best is yet to comeA seven furlong race, contested over an off

track against an incredibly fast sprinter, wasthe rst race on Palace Malices itineraryfor his 3-year-old year, and a strong effortthat saw him nish second to Majestic Hus -sar, beaten 2 1/4-lengths, was redolent thatgreater things may be in his future. The colt,foaled on May 2, 2010, would meet a series ofchallenges on the way to achieving eventualstardom, having to overcome adverse condi-

tions, with Palace Malice and his rider notbeing responsible for the preponderance ofthose situations.

A formidable stakes debut found PalaceMalice beaten less than one-length in theGrade 2 Risen Star at the Fair Grounds. Buthis next start, a race at the same track veweeks later, would unfold far differently. TheGrade 2 Louisiana Derby was anything buteasy going for Palace Malice. The horse wastrapped behind a wall of horses, precludedfrom advancing from the ve-sixteenths poleto just inside the furlong marker, nishing anundesirable seventh.

Faith and beliefHowever, Palace Malices connections,

although disappointed, remained optimisticand wheeled him back two weeks later in theGrade 1 Toyota Blue Grass Stakes, a racehe should have won. The colt appeared to bedistracted in the deep stretch by the tractortracks on the surface of the racing strip atKeeneland, but the effort punched his ticketto the 139th running of the Kentucky Derby.

Belmont Stakes winnerputs Aiken on the map

Aiken Triple Crown Aiken Standard4S:Saturday, March 8, 2014

AP FILE PHOTO/MARK LENNIHAN

Palace Malice, ridden by jockey Mike Smith, wins the 145th Belmont Stakes horse raceat Belmont Park on June 8, 2013, in Elmont, N.Y.

Why is Palace Malice so special?

About Palace Malice

Dogwood Stables Palace Malicewas foaled May 2, 2010.

The colt won the 145th running ofthe Belmont Stakes on June 8, 2013.

Dogwood Stable purchased Pal-ace Malice from the consignment ofNiall Brennan for $200,000 at the 2012Keeneland April Two-Year-Olds in Train-ing Sale.

Dogwood Stables Place Malicewas trained in Aiken by Legacy StablesBrad Stauffer.

Palace Malice has three wins, placedsecond four times, and has finishedthird once, earning $1,481,135.


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Palace Malice would set the early fractionsin the Run for the Roses, establishing thepace and leading the eld for the rst sixfurlongs of the race. The colt would nish12th, but what an international televisionaudience saw during the contest referred toas the Greatest Two Minutes in Sports,

served as an indicator for what would hap-pen ve weeks later as the Dogwood Stableentry would once again capture the globalspotlight.

New York state of mindThe 145th running of the Belmont Stakes

on June 8, 2013, in Elmont, N.Y., would be-come a dening moment. The 1-mile race,the third jewel in Thoroughbred RacingsTriple Crown, is the race often referred to as

The True Test of Champions.Palace Malice was more than up to thechallenge. He trained well coming into therace, and all signs indicated he would bepoised for an outstanding performance, butwhat happened next would cement his placein the annals of Thoroughbred racing his-tory.

Palace Malices decisive 3-length vic-tory in the Belmont Stakes, a race in whichhe defeated both the Preakness Stakes andKentucky Derby winners, Oxbow and Orb,stamped him as among the best horses of hisgeneration.

Sophomore sensationA seven-week layoff would result in anoth-

er graded stakes victory, this time by two-lengths at storied Saratoga Race Course, the

place where Palace Malice broke his maiden,scoring a win in the Grade 2 Jim DandyStakes.

The Mid-Summer Derby, the Grade 1

Travers Stakes on Aug. 24, would be next onthe agenda for Palace Malice.

However, poor racing luck would factorinto the nal result, a stumble at the start,being carried inward by another horse andthe victim of a slow pace, were among thevariables that worked against Palace Malice.

The colts strong nish, that saw himying in the races late stages, found himplacing fourth, beaten by less than one-length.

California dreamingThe multiple-graded stakes winner would

start next in the Grade 1 Jockey Club GoldCup Invitational Stakes at Belmont Park, n-ishing a strong second, and earning a trip toArcadia, Calif., for his nal start of 2013.

A last-minute change in jockeys becauseof an injury to regular rider John Velazquez,and a less than favorable trip, saw PalaceMalice place sixth in the Breeders CupClassic.

However, it was a triumphant return homeas Palace Malice would be named the 2013Aiken Trained Horse of the Year, and he wasrecognized for his outstanding effort duringhis sophomore campaign by being named anEclipse Award nalist in the 3-year-old Maledivision.



Dogwood Stable president Cot Campbell was named theAiken StandardPerson of theYear for 2013. He is pictured with Dogwoods Palace Malice, who won the Belmont Stakeson June 8, 2013, in Elmont, N.Y.

Please see PALACE,Page 35


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BY BEN BAUGH

[email protected]

It couldnt have been anymore appropriate

for me as a journalist.I came to Aiken from Ocala, Fla., in the fallof 2004.

I had been working ata farm, owned by NorthAmericas largest Thor-oughbred breeder, and hadcovered the industry for anumber of publications.

It was my hope that, even-tually, my position wouldmorph into one whose pri-

mary emphasis and respon-sibility would be the equineindustry.

However, it was Thoroughbred racing thatwas my rst love, although I have grown toembrace other disciplines with a fervor thatrivals that of the former.

A colt named Palace MaliceMy time in Ocala was well spent.It provided me with an opportunity to follow

the Thoroughbred sales very closely.One of the consignors that I followed with

great interest, and have the utmost respect foras a horseman, is Niall Brennan.

My relocation to Aiken meant tracking themovements of Dogwood Stable with greatenthusiasm, and its presence at the 2-year-oldssales was something I looked forward to withunequaled enjoyment.

So, it was not a coincidence when DogwoodStable purchased Palace Malice at the 2012Keeneland April 2-year-olds in Training Salefrom the consignment of Niall Brennan for$200,000, that I was more than just a little bitinterested in this bay colt.

What was even more intriguing was that thisbay colt was the son of two-time Horse of theYear Curlin, a horse I admired greatly.

One thing about working at a place for a sub-stantial period of time is that you get to developand strengthen your rapport with some of yoursources. Among those people that Ive come toknow better are those connections at DogwoodStable and Legacy Stable.

I could tell there was more than just the aver-age enthusiasm and exuberance about this sonof Curlin based on his rst race, by listeningto Dogwood Stables President W. CothranCampbell and Vice President Jack Sadler.

Even though the colt placed second, beatena half-length in a ve-furlong race, it appearedPalace Malice was poised for bigger things.

Plenty to be excited aboutI wrote my rst article about Palace Malice

the day before he broke his maiden by an

impressive 3-lengths, in his second race, a6-furlong contest at historic Saratoga RaceCourse on Aug. 4, 2012.

There seemed to be plenty to be excitedabout.

What I didnt know was that the horse hadbucked his shins while preparing for the Grade2 Hopeful Stakes.

Palace Malice, trained by six-time EclipseAward winning trainer Todd Pletcher atthe racetrack, had a substantial layoff of 51/2-months.

As time went on, my relationship with theDogwood connections grew stronger, theircondence in me and willingness to share thedetails of such a promising individual as PalaceMalice was humbling.

I was truly appreciative of their generosity,but it just happened to fuel my interest furtherin this May 2, 2010, foal that would soon be-come a racing dynamo.

His sophomore campaign debut was at Gulf-stream Park in Hallandale Beach, Fla., on Jan.19, 2013, a seven-furlong contest featuring avery good sprinter, but the weather conditionswere not favorable.

The track was muddy and had to be sealed,but Palace Malices professionalism foundhim running second to Majestic Hussar, onlybeaten 2 1/4-lengths.

That race surely removed any incredulousbone I had in my body. Palace Malices third-place nish in the Risen Star Stakes afrmedmy evaluation of the horses ability as a coltteeming in talent and possessing the work ethic

and professional demeanor needed to succeedon the demanding Kentucky Derby Trail.

It would be ve weeks before Palace Malicewould race again, but his next effort in theLouisiana Derby went from what could beperceived as utter joy before the race to gravedisappointment.

Palace Malice found himself trapped behinda wall of horses, not being able to advance,nishing seventh, nding himself withoutenough points to qualify for the KentuckyDerby eld.

However, Thoroughbred racing is a game ofchance, and Palace Malices connections werewilling to gamble, wheeling the horse backtwo weeks later in the Blue Grass Stakes.

The Kentucky DerbyThere was a feeling of euphoria and relief.

Palace Malice nished second in the BlueGrass Stakes. A trip to the Kentucky Derbywas now in order.

Other horses had qualied previously for theKentucky Derby that had trained over the Ai-ken Training Track, so why was this different?

Was it the connections?Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith would ride

Palace Malice in the Run for the Roses. PalaceMalice buttons and T-shirts could be seen ev-erywhere around Aiken.

The tension and the drama continued to buildthroughout the morning and afternoon leadingup to the race.

The resounding, almost bloodcurdling yell-

ing in theAiken Standardnewsroom greetedPalace Malices fast early fractions, as the colt wearing blinkers for the rst time set theearly pace, leading for the rst six furlongs,only to fade to 12th.

But what an exciting 1:09 it was!

The Belmont StakesA ve-week respite from the races was one

that found Palace Malice training up to whatwould be the next date on his itinerary thethird jewel of Thoroughbreds racing TripleCrown, the 145th running of the BelmontStakes.

There was reserved optimism concerning thehorse. However, when the race started, hopesprung eternal.

When the bay colt turned back the challengeof his rival Oxbow and left the KentuckyDerby winner Orb in his wake, the newsroomshook as Palace Malice cruised to a 3-lengthvictory.

The editorial staffs exuberance left themwith a collective raspy voice, but it was one ofpride and satisfaction; Palace Malice had won,securing his place in history.

However, it was when Cot Campbell told aglobal broadcast audience, that Theyll bedancing in the streets of Aiken tonight, thesignicance of the event took on far greatermeaning and purpose.

I would call Brad Stauffer, and later thatevening had the good fortune to talk with CotCampbell a dening moment in my career,one that has been indelibly fashioned in mymemory.


AP FILE PHOTO/MARK LENNIHAN

Jockey Mike Smith, left, and Cot Campbell, president of Dogwood Stable, hold the Bel-mont Stakes trophy in the winners circle after Smith rode Palace Malice to win theBelmont Stakes horse race in Elmont, N.Y., on June 8, 2013.

Please see STORY,Page 35

... It was when Cot Campbelltold a global broadcastaudience that Theyll bedancing in the streets of Aikentonight, the significance ofthe event took on far greatermeaning and purpose. Iwould call Brad Stauffer, andlater that evening had thegood fortune to talk with Cot

Campbell, a defining momentin my career ...Ben Baugh,equine reporter

A defining story covering Palace Malice

Baugh


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Aiken Triple CrownAiken Standard Saturday, March 8, 2014:7

Aik T i l C Aik S d d8 S d M h 8 2014


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Want to go?

BY DEDE BILES

[email protected]

Where did the Aiken Triple Crown get itsname?

Chuck Charles Armour came up with theterm when he was theAiken Standards sportseditor.

It happened more 40 years ago, he said.At that time, Aiken already had two major

spring equine events, the Aiken Trials and theAiken Hunt Meet, which now is known as theAiken Spring Steeplechase.

Then, the Harness Races at the Aiken MileTrack became part of the mix in 1971.

I needed something to tie the three eventstogether, and I came up with Aiken TripleCrown, Armour said.

His inspiration was Thoroughbred racings

Triple Crown series, which takes place in Mayand June.

It is open to 3-year-old runners, and theycompete in the Kentucky Derby, PreaknessStakes and Belmont Stakes.

Aiken Triple Crown: Whats in a name?

Aiken Trials

WHAT:The 72nd Running of The Aiken TrialsWHEN: Saturday, March 15; gates open at 10 a.m.WHERE: Aiken Training Track, 538 Two Notch Road S.E.TICKETING: Admission is $10 in advance, $15 at the gateHOW TICKETING WORKS:Every person needs to havea general admission (or patron) pass to enter. Everyvehicle needs to have a reserved parking pass or a gen-eral admission parking pass. First row reserved parkingspots come with four general admission passes, secondand third row reserved parking spots come with two

general admission passes. Patron reserved parkingspots come with four patron passes.PARKING: General admission parking is$10 per car.WINNERS CIRCLE PAVILION TENT PARTY:$75 perperson. Admission for children is $25 each.FOR MORE INFORMATION:Call the Aiken Trials officeat 803-648-4631 or visit www.aikentrainingtrack.com.

Aiken Spring Steeplechase

WHAT: 48th Renewal of the Aiken Spring SteeplechaseWHEN:Saturday, March 22; gates open at 9:30 a.m.WHERE:Ford Conger FieldTICKETING:Patron tickets are $25 each in advanceand $35 each at the gate. Children 10 and younger areadmitted free. Sertoma Club advance patron ticketlocations: Aiken Drug, Aiken Saddlery & Supply, Floyd &Green, H. Odell Weeks Activities Center, Ingate Profes-sional Pharmacy, Lominick Pharmacy, North AugustaChamber of Commerce, Plum Pudding, Southern Bank

& Trust, Southern Saddlery, Stoplight Deli and UniqueExpressions.GUARANTOR TENT PARTY:$120 per person (or four for$450 if all come in one vehicle). Admission for children6-12 is $60 each.PARKING: Due to the popularity of the spring races andlow turnover of tailgate spaces, there is no drive-in raceday parking. Off-site public parking will be available atthe Powerhouse Polo Field and the Aiken Training Track(pay at the gate only).FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call the Aiken

Steeplechase office at 803-648-9641 or visitwww.aikensteeplechase.com.

Pacers & Polo

WHAT: Pacers & PoloWHEN: Saturday, March 29; gates open at 10:30 a.m.WHERE: Powderhouse Polo Field, located offPowderhouse RoadTICKETING: $10 for adults at the gate, $8 in advanceand $5 for children. For $100, guests can get first-rowparking and tailgate right next to the action.VIP HOSPITALITY TENT TICKET: VIP Tent tickets are$75 per person and include lunch, an open bar andadmission to the match. VIP Tent tickets may be

purchased by calling Debbie Boggs at 803-641-3630or email [email protected]. RSVP by March 19.PARKING: General admission and VIP tent parking is $5per car.FOR MORE INFORMATION:Visit USC AikensPacers & Polo information website at web.usca.edu/pacersandpolo.

I needed something to tie thethree events together, and

I came up with Aiken TripleCrown.Chuck Charles Armour,formerAiken Standardsports editor

Village of Shops opens at10 a.m. First race at 1 p.m. Carriage Parade at 1:15p.m.

Second race at 1:30 p.m. Third race at 2 p.m. Fourth race at 2:30 p.m. Fifth race at 3 p.m. Sixth race at 3:30 p.m.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Gates open at 10 a.m. Vendors and concessionsopen at 11 a.m. Tent party starts at 11 a.m.

Opening ceremoniesand Carriage Paradebegin at 1 p.m. Races start at 2 p.m.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Gates open at 10:30 p.m. Match begins at 1 p.m. There will be an openingceremony, six 7-minute

chukkers, a 20-minuteintermission and anawards ceremony at theend of the match.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS


The Parade of Carriages kicks off the Aiken Trials last year.

Aiken Triple CrownAiken Standard Saturday March 8 2014: 9


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UP CLOSE:Emily McBrunett, left, and Jessica Gartman meet Tarasco and Aiken Trials outrider Victor Sambrano at last years Trials.

Last year, Palace Malice, owned by Aiken-based Dogwood Stable, won the BelmontStakes.

In 2004, Pacers & Polo replaced the Har-ness Races in the Aiken Triple Crown lineup.

USC Aiken and its Pacer Club served as theHarness Races sponsors. They stepped upand got involved in the new polo game eventafter Bruce McGhee, who then was the co-owner of the track where the Harness Raceswere held, announced the facility would nolonger host that leg of the Triple Crown.

The Pacer Club supports USC Aiken sportsteams with its membership revenues. A paceris a type of harness racing horse that has alateral two-beat gait.

The Pacer is USC Aikens mascot, and theschools athletes are known collectively as thePacers.

This years 11th edition of Pacers & Polo isscheduled for March 29.

More name originsThe Aiken Spring Steeplechases 48th re-

newal will be on March 22.During a steeplechase race, horses jump

over obstacles while they compete.The origin of the word steeplechase traces

back to the 1600s in England. The most dis-tinguishable landmarks then were the tallchurch steeples.

Two horses at a time would compete inmatch races, running from one steeple to an-other while jumping the stone walls, fences,hedgerows and/or steams in their path.

The 72nd edition of the Aiken Trials will beheld on March 15.

Thoroughbreds compete in the races, butthere are no purses, and the results dontbecome part of horses ofcial competitiverecords.

The Trials introduces Thoroughbreds thathavent competed before to the racing experi-ence

For horses that have raced previously, par-ticipating in the Trials helps them get ready toreturn to competition.


LETS GO! Amy Howard holds up son Dan-iel, who excitedly applauds the horses rac-ing down the track at last years Aiken Trials.


RAIN OR SHINE:Kathy Garrity, left, Kerry Kelty, cen-ter, and Karen Vijuk made the best of the rainy weatherwhile tailgating at last years Spring Steeplechase.


KEEPING DRY: Ashleigh VanOverstraeten, left, Hannah Gat-tis and Jonah Sain walk to theirtailgating spot at last years Ai-ken Spring Steeplechase.

Aiken Triple Crown Aiken Standard10S: Saturday March 8 2014


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Aiken Triple Crown Aiken Standard10S:Saturday, March 8, 2014

#hashtaggingAiken Triple Crown#aikentriplecrown

#aiktrials #aiksteeple #pacerpolo

#aikoutfit

#myaikbet #aiktailgate

Going to watch horses fly? Let your followers know whatshappening at this years Aiken Spring Steeplechase with#aiksteeple.

Going to the Aiken Triple Crown later this month? Want to stay in the equestrian loopbut unable to attend the events? Stay updated and tell the world whats happening inAiken on Twitter with these hashtags.

Do you know where all the best viewing places are atthe events? See a short line for food or restrooms?Tweet it! Keep your followers in the know of all thingsAiken Triple Crown with this hashtag.

Stay updated on the first event of the Triple Crown byfollowing this hashtag. Snap a picture of the big finish?Tweet it with #aiktrials and let everyone know.

Heading out to watch Pacers & Polo? Show your supportof the USC Aiken Pacers and share your predictions ofwhos going to win the match with #pacerpolo.

With all of the horses and jockeys participatingin the Aiken Triple Crown, it can be difficultto keep up with whos who. Tweet who yourerooting for with #myaikbet and see who others

are cheering for, too.

Aiken Triple Crown is one big celebration, andtailgaters know how to party. Have extra food?Wouldnt mind having a few more people join you?Tell your followers how you are celebrating the AikenTriple Crown with #aiktailgate.

One thing thats made clear at each Aiken Triple Crown

event is that Aiken residents know how to dress. Don yourbow ties and hats, ladies and gents, and tweet those selfiesshowing off your swag. Use #aikoutfit to show everyoneyour outfit of the day during the Aiken Triple Crown.

Dont forget to follow

@aikenstandardfor updates on all thingsAiken Triple Crown.

Follow us!



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p y, ,

STAFF PHOTO BY TEDDY KULMALA

Fatron Holston, left, Trenton Austin, center, and Daniel Clark sharelaughs and drinks with friends while tailgating at last years AikenSpring Steeplechase.

When youre out at theraces this year, tweetus @aikenstandard,

and show us how yourday is going.

Donning a new hat,or just relaxing withsome friends?

Send us a pic@aikenstandard#aikentriplecrown,and your photocould end up in the

Aiken Standard.



12/41

y


Fatron Holston, left, Trenton Austin, center, and Daniel Clark sharelaughs and drinks with friends while tailgating at last years AikenSpring Steeplechase.

When youre out at theraces this year, tweetus @aikenstandard,

and show us how yourday is going.

Donning a new hat,or just relaxing withsome friends?

Send us a pic@aikenstandard#aikentriplecrown,and your photocould end up in the

Aiken Standard.


13/41

The First Jewel of the Aiken Triple Crown March 15

Aiken Trials



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BY DEDE BILES

[email protected]

The Aiken Trials serves two purposes forthe Thoroughbreds participating.

For those that have never competed before,the rst jewel of Aikens Triple Crown pro-vides an introduction to the racing experi-ence.

For the horses that already have races undertheir belts, its a chance to get ready for a re -turn to competition.

For the more than 10,000 spectators thatusually show up for the Trials at the AikenTraining Track, the event is pure entertain-

ment, providing an afternoon of excitementand fun.

In addition, watching the Thoroughbredsrun, the crowd can enjoy a carriage parade,a Mariachi band and a horse that performstricks.

Its a great opportunity for people to geteducated about the racing industry and whatgoes on, said Legacy Stables Brad Stauffer,who is the Training Tracks president.

The 72nd edition of the Trials is scheduledfor March 15.

Last year, there were six races, includingone for polo ponies.

Im hoping well have enough horses toll at least ve races this year, Stauffer said.There are about 160 horses here, and thatnumber is down from the last couple of years.In addition to the number of horses beingdown, its been a bad year for the weather.Weve missed a lot of days of training be-cause the track has been frozen, and the rainhasnt helped.

Traditionally, the Thoroughbreds that

participate in the Trials are just practicingbecause the races offer no purses, and the re-sults dont become part of the horses ofcialcompetitive records.

They are simulated races, Stauffer said.But even though there is no money to be

won, there is an incentive for Aiken TrainingTrack-based trainers to enter horses in theTrials because the animals can benet in thelong run.

For the 2-year-olds and older horses thathavent raced before, it is a wonderful chance

for an education, Stauffer said. They ex-perience the crowd and the noise and thefanfare. When they go to the racetrack laterand run there for the rst time, it gives theman edge over the horses that havent had thesame sort of experience.

Participating in the Trials also can givehorses that have raced previously an advan-tage.

After theyve had a layoff (from compe-tition), it gets their system back in gear,Stauffer said. When they leave here to go

back to the racetrack, theyre prepared torace again. All their cylinders are ring.

During a Trials contest, many spectatorstend to focus on the end because they want tosee which horse nishes rst. But to Stauffer,one of the most interesting parts of a race iswhen the equine competitors break from thestarting gate.

Theyre standing still and then they springout of here instantly; its very thrilling, hesaid. Suddenly, they are gone.

Valuable experience for racehorses

Events schedule

10:00 a.m.: Gates open11:00 a.m.: Vendors and concessions

open; Tent Party starts1:00 p.m.: Opening ceremonies and

Carriage Parade2:00 p.m.: Races begin

TICKETS & PARKINGHow to get tickets | page14


Artist Laura McTier paints before the start of last years Aiken Trials.


I thirtyfive wins the Gaver Trophy, the days first race at the Aiken Trials last year.



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Many friends and families have made the Aiken Trials a tradition. Pictured are, front from left, Reva Crandall and Becky Reed; andback from left, Kelly Crandall, Matt Eidson and Dabney Eidson at last years Aiken Trials.

WHAT:The 72nd Running of the Aiken TrialsWHEN: Saturday, March 15; gates open at10 a.m.WHERE: Aiken Training Track, 538 TwoNotch Road S.E.TICKETING: General admission is $10 inadvance, $15 at the gate

HOW TICKETING WORKS:Every personneeds to have a general admission (or pa-tron) pass to enter. Every vehicle needs tohave a reserved parking pass or a generaladmission parking pass. First row reservedparking spots come with four generaladmission passes, second and third rowreserved parking spots come with two gen-eral admission passes. Patron reserved park-ing spots come with four patron passes.

PARKING: General admission parking is$10per car.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call the AikenTraining Track office at 803-648-4631 or visitthe Aiken Training Track website at www.aikentrainingtrack.com or the Aiken Trialswebsite at www.aikentrials.com.

HOW TO GET TICKETS


Kathy and Gary Stout take the opportunityto celebrate St. Patricks Day with a bit offlair at last years Aiken Trials.



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BY TEDDY KULMALA

[email protected]

The Aiken Trials is not only the rst legof the Aiken Triple Crown, its also the rst

race experience for many of the young horsesrunning in it, and its a rst experience morespectators are getting in on.Nikki Bargeloh, secretary of the Aiken Tri-

als, has been coordinating the event for fouryears.

It is all local horses that run in the Trials,she said. Its a great experience for them. Itgives them experiences around the crowdsand noise. Most of them, its their rst race,so its just a kind of schooling for them.

The 72nd running of the races is similar

to previous years: Six races with six horseseach.

Five of those races are for 2-year-old hors -es, or maidens, which are horses that havenever won a race before they started.

The length of the race is between a quarter-mile to 4.5 furlongs.

The remaining race is for young horseswho have already won.

The competition is at racing and purelyexhibition.

Organizers never know exactly how many

horses will be running in the race until theweek before.

Its kind of a nailbiter, she said. You nev-er know if the horses will be ready, if theyllbe hurt. We hope for six races with six horsesin each of them, but its kind of a crapshootuntil the time actually comes.

Preparation for the Aiken Trials typicallystarts around December with preliminarycommittee meetings and kicks into high gearin January.

Two full-time employees maintain the track

and eld at Aiken Training Track year-round

but kick it up a notch as the Triple Crown

nears, Bargeloh said.The format for organizing the event is al-

most always the same, with some tweakingfrom year to year.

In recent years, Bargeloh said theyve triedto add more fun stuff to the event, includ-ing tailgating contests, a Best Hat contestand a roaming Mariachi band brought infrom Charlotte. The group moves from tail-gate to tailgate serenading spectators, andeven makes an appearance in the WinnersCircle Pavilion Tent Party.

The Tent Party is positioned at the nish line

and includes parking, lunch, an open bar, a

raised viewing platform and deejay entertain-ment between races.

Tent Party admission is $75 per person.Ticket sales are also a stressful part of put-

ting on the Trials, Bargeloh said. They sentout reserve letters in early January and havea large waiting list for people wanting spotsthat are already claimed.

Attendance for the Trials typically averagesabout 8,000, Bargeloh said.

I think Aiken has embraced horse racing,

especially since Palace Malice was aroundhere this winter, she said.

Trials are round one for Triple Crown, young horses


Nikki Bargeloh and Julie Stevens go over plans at the Aiken Training Track to ensurethis years Aiken Trials are a success.


Jockeys fight for position at a previous Aiken Trials.

It is all local horses thatrun in the Trials. Its a greatexperience for them. It gives

them experiences aroundthe crowds and noise. Mostof them, its their first race, soits just a kind of schooling forthem.Nikki Bargeloh,secretary of the Aiken Trials


17/41

The Second Jewel of the Aiken Triple Crown March 22

Spring Steeplechase



18/41

BY AMY BANTON

[email protected]

The Spring Steeplechase, to be held March22, is a staple event for many Aikenites.

Many call it a grand reunion for friends andfamily as attendees gather around the track atFord Conger Field to enjoy food, spirits andgood company.

Cheers erupt from the crowd as the horsesrun by, creating a thunderous sound as theirhooves pound the dirt.

Mia Miller with the Aiken SteeplechaseAssociation said the Spring Steeplechase is adening element of Aikens culture.

The Spring Steeplechase is such a vitalpart of Aikens history, Miller said. Itserves as a rite of spring for many who lookforward to a beautiful spring day.

The Steeplechase Association was estab-lished in Aiken in 1930 by several well-known horsemen, including the inuentialThomas Hitchcock, according to its website.

The very rst race actually took place inHitchcock Woods, according to its website.

The races did experience a 25-year hiatusdue to war and civic development, the web-

site reads, but it returned in 1967.

The Spring Steeplechase is quite the tail-gating experience, as people go all out withfood, drinks and decorations.

Make sure to bring spending money for theVillage of Shops, sunscreen or an umbrella,Miller said. And, of course, ladies, be sure to

wear your most unique hat.

An Aiken tradition


Bart Shuster, John Hamilton and Jimmy Hammons in the owners, trainers, riders tent.

Events schedule

9:30 a.m.: Gates open10:00 a.m.: Village of Shops opens11:00 a.m.: Guarantor Tent Party starts1:00 p.m.: First race1:15 p.m.: Carriage Parade1:30 p.m.: Second race2:00 p.m.: Third race2:30 p.m.: Fourth race3:00 p.m.: Fifth race3:30 p.m.: Sixth race

TICKETS & PARKINGHow to get tickets | page18A Garden Party Gala |page 19



19/41

WHAT:The 48th Renewal of the Aiken Spring SteeplechaseWHEN: Saturday, March 22; gates open at 9:30 a.m.WHERE: Ford Conger FieldTICKETING:Patron tickets are $25 each in advance and $35 each at the gate. Children 10and younger are admitted free. Sertoma Club advance patron ticket locations: Aiken Drug,Aiken Saddlery & Supply, Floyd & Green, H. Odell Weeks Activities Center, Ingate Profes-sional Pharmacy, Lominick Pharmacy, North Augusta Chamber of Commerce, Plum Pud-ding, Southern Bank & Trust, Southern Saddlery, Stoplight Deli and Unique Expressions.GUARANTOR TENT PARTY:$120 per person (or four for $450 if all come in one vehicle).This ticket includes admission to Guarantor Tent, which includes some of the best viewing

on the course. The tent party hosts a buffet luncheon, open bar, musical entertainmentand parking adjacent to the tent. Admission for children 6-12 is $60 each.PARKING:Due to the popularity of the spring races and low turnover of tailgate spaces,there is no drive-in race day parking. Off-site public parking will be available at the Power-house Polo Field and the Aiken Training Track (pay at the gate only).FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call the Aiken Steeplechase office at 803-648-9641 or visitwww.aikensteeplechase.com.

visit www.aikensteeplechase.com for more information ...

Dont forget:Steeplechase emergency kitMake sure to have these items on hand when attending Aiken Triple crown events:

Cups, plts n utnsils Blnkt r cirs Bttl pnr n crk scrw First i kit Gs (i.. crnl brs) Insct rpllnt Kzis

Ligtr Pn/cr bttr crgr Sncks n rinks Spning n Sunscrn Tilt ppr Twls Trs bgs Ubrll n r sunscrn Wt wips/n snitizr

HOW TO GET TICKETS

BY TEDDY KULMALA

[email protected]

Ask almost anyone in Aiken andtheyll likely tell you spring doesnt

ofcially begin until the Aiken TripleCrowns Spring Steeplechase.

However, preparation for the event,which garners crowds of more than30,000, begins months earlier.

Mia Miller is the event coordinatorfor the Aiken Steeplechase Associa-tion and has been involved with theassociation for 17 years.

We like to think the Steeplechaseis the largest one-day event in theCSRA, she said, noting that other big

attractions such as the Masters golftournament and the Battle of Aikenare spread over multiple days.

We have lots of tourists going inand college students coming home,Miller said. We like to call it the Riteof Spring. Its the door that opens upspring.

Miller said preparation for the SpringSteeplechase begins immediately afterthe Fall Steeplechase concludes, usu-ally around mid-November.

In addition to the event itself, Milleroversees coordination for the black-tiegala the night before the spring races.

Miller is the only employee at theAiken Steeplechase Association. Inaddition to a 12-member board of di-rectors, the rest of the heavy lifting isdone by volunteers.

The small group of us have been

together for a very long time now, andits sort of a well-oiled machine as faras the preparation side of it, she said.Ninety-nine percent of the peoplewho participate in running this thingare volunteers.

Board members have their own taskson which to focus. Some are respon-sible for sponsorships, while others aretasked with maintaining Ford CongerField.

Miller said a common misunder-

standing is that the Aiken Steeple-chase Association owns the eld; itactually rents it.

The eld is irrigated, which relievesmuch of the maintenance require-ments, Miller said.

The Association hires a maintenancecrews to cut the eld, and a represen-tative from the National Steeplechase

Association comes to Aiken each yearto make sure the eld and track are upto standards, she said.

The format for coordinating the falland spring Steeplechase events is rela-tively the same, Miller said.

The volume of people and tailgatespaces is a tremendous difference,Miller said. After doing this job for somany years, there are things that havebecome old-hat. With an event thissize, the margin of error with certain

things, you have to be very careful.Prepping for such a huge event is in-

deed stressful, but Miller said it nevergets old.

Its so exciting and so thrilling, shesaid. To sell a product that everyonewants and everyone looks forward toand everyone is excited about I feellike a lucky girl.

Prep for Rite of Spring begins in fall

STaFF PhoTo By Teddy KULmaLa

Aiken Steeplechase Association Board member GeorgiannaGirl Conger, from left, Event Coordinator Mia Miller andPresident Albert Bostwick put in countless hours with the As-sociation to get the Steeplechase event organized.

The small group of us have been together for avery long time now ... Ninety-nine percent of thepeople who participate in running this thing are

volunteers. ... Its so exciting and so thrilling. To sell aproduct that everyone wants and everyone looksforward to and everyone is excited about I feel like a lucky girl.Mia Miller, Aiken Steeplechase Associationevent coordinator


l l h ld k d


20/41

BY HALEY HUGHES

[email protected]

A fashion staple for the nimble-footed dancer

Fred Astaire, British Prime Minister Win-ston Churchill and legendary crooners FrankSinatra and Dean Martin are sure to be inabundance at this years Spring SteeplechaseGala bow ties.

The gala, dubbed Blossoms and Bow Ties:A Garden Party Gala, is Friday, March 21, thenight before the 48th renewal of Aiken SpringSteeplechase, the second jewel in AikensTriple Crown.

Its denitely the great event not to miss. Itsdenitely the party of the spring, said Geor-

gianna Conger, a board member of the AikenSteeplechase Association. It heralds the rac-ing weekend.

Bow ties were rst used to keep shirts closedby Croatian mercenaries during the Prussianwar in the 17th century, according to Vogue,and later emerged in French fashion and werecalled cravates, which means Croatian.

Over the years, bow ties have become practi-cally de rigueur for Southern gentlemen, espe-cially when paired with a seersucker suit.

The galas color themes are the very preppy

colors of navy blue and green, Conger said.

Its black tie, but the bow tie of theirchoice, she said. It will be very regal andbeautiful with the spring owers.

The gala will be held at Ford Conger Field at7 p.m. on March 21.

Dinner will be served, and there will be anopen bar. The Root Doctors will provide en-tertainment.

This years gala will benet the Golden Har-vest Food Bank.

For more information, call the Aiken Stee-

plechase Association ofce at 803-648-9641.

Annual gala heralds racing weekend

Want to go?WHAT:Blossoms and Bow Ties: AGarden Party GalaWHEN:March 21 at 7 p.m.WHERE:Ford Conger FieldCOST:Tickets are $125 eachFOR MORE INFORMATION:Call theAiken Steeplechase Association officeat 803-648-9641

Its black tie, but the bow tieof their choice. It will be veryregal and beautiful with thespring flowers.Georgianna Conger,Aiken SteeplechaseAssociation

nobuduA

RedGate

Green

GateBlue

Gate

Where doI park?

East

Pine

Log

So

uth

Boundary

Red Gate access: From SouthBoundary Avenue, turn south on

Marlboro Street. Continue on Two

Notch Road. Turn left on Audubon

Drive.

From East Pine Log Road, turn

north on Two Notch Road. Turn

right on Audubon Drive.

Green Gate access: From East PineLog only, turn north on Powder-

house Road.

Blue Gate access: From South

Boundary only, turn south on

Powderhouse Road. Turn right on

Audubon Drive.

TwoNotchRoad

no

bu

du

A

FordCongerField

AikenTrain

ing

Track

Powderhouse

polofield

PowderhouseRoad

Audubon Drive will be closed to through traffic. The public parkinglots will open at

10 a.m. There will be right-turn-only traffic into the Powerhouse polo field and

left-turn-only into the Aiken Training Track.

RACE DAY PARKING FOR STEEPLECHASE

C k il i



21/41

Stir up signature drinks for Triple Crown festivitiesBY STEPHANIE TURNER

[email protected]

In Kentucky, people might sip mint julepsat the states famed horsing event, but here inAiken, local bartenders are recommendingsomething on the more fruity side.

Bartending is an exact science at best,said Brian Clark, Davors Cafe bartender.Steeplechase drinks should be ... light andrefreshing.

The following drinks can be altered to bettersuit the creators tastes.

Basic materials needed are fruit, a shaker orsimilar device and, of course, liquor.

Ingredients:

3 stwees 4 leees 1.5 tlespoos o

smple sp 2 oces o Old Toms

G 1.5 oces o esl

sqeezed lme jceDirections:

Mddle two stwe-

es, tee leees.

Come te smplesp, Old Toms G dlme jce.

Ete ske d stto mt glss oseve o te ocks (ovece).

Gs wt stw-e slce d wolelee.

Cocktail time

STaff PhOTO by STEPhaniE TurnEr

Sangrias can be made to suit anyones tastes. These were created with white wine, slicedfruits and brandy. Add some to your excitement to your tailgate RECIPE, PAGE 21

Ingredients:

3 to 4 spgs o es sl 4 to 5 pe leees 1 ce sg d/o 1 oce smple sp Jce om l lemo o lme 2 oces o g o vodk ice Cl sod to tste

Directions: Ms (mddle) te sl, leees d

smple sp togete te ottom o cocktl glss.

add te esl sqeezed lemo (o lme)

jce, te g o vodk d some ce. Po te cocktl to ote glss d

te ck g, smple. Top wt moe sp o sod to tste. Tp: yo c mke ts dk wt te

lgt-coloed spt o o coosg. Vodk(s sll) te cowd plese, t i ppeto tk g gs t o ccte ttvodk lcks... Te t s t lexles well, Clk

sd.

WANT TO MAKE IT?Blueberry Basil Smash

Ingredients: 2 oces o sweet te vodk oces o smple sp lemo, jced ice 5 t slces o lemo fes osem spg

Directions: Ske st ve gedets togete

ske. Po to glss. Gs wt osem.Note:recpe smtted Mttew

Se, estt mge.

WANT TO MAKE IT?Berry GimletThe Stables Restaurant at Rose Hill Estate

WANT TO MAKE IT?Dixie TeaThe Willcox Hotel

Brian Clark, Davors Cafe

Area bartenders suggestusing fresh fruits when creatinga light and refreshing drink forthe Triple Crown festivities.

Ingredients: Leves om 4 to 5 mt spgs 2 sg ces o oce smple

sp 2 oces oo wske Mt spg o gs

Directions: Plce te mt d

smple sp o sgto jlep cp, colls

glss, o dole old-soed glss.

Mddle well to ds-solve te sg dto elese te ol dom o te mt.

add te oo. fll wt csed ce

d st well tl teglss ecomes ost.

Gs wt temt spg.

WANT TO MAKE IT?Mint Julepwww.about.com

If fruity drinks arentyour thing, you canalways go with theclassic mint julep.



22/41

Steeplechase sangriaIngredients:

2 wls ac uit dsid 1 bttl wit wi cup suga 2 sts bad 1 cup lmad limad 1 cup gig al Ic, i dd a quick tu-aud

Directions: Cut ac uit it cicls, z. Bld t wi ad suga tgt. Add bad ad lmad limad. Add t ic, i dd.

Cut up maiig uit, squz i juic. Add i t z uit, sti. Add gig al, sti ad sv.Note:T igial vsi tis cip

uss cada ad cgac bad.Tips: I usig wit wi, addig citus

uit is advisd. At ppaati, it is c-mmdd t lt t cip sit vigt a u, at last. Us z uittugut t da istad ic t kpt dik cld.

STAff PhoTo By STePhAnIe TUrner

Amanda Brewer of Augusta cuts up and squeezes juices from various fruits to add flavor to her white wine sangria. You cantweak it as you like, Brewer said. If its too strong, add some lemonade or ginger ale. Brewer has tended bars in downtownAugusta for 10 years and was a previous general manager at The Metro Coffeehouse & Pub for seven years.

WANT TO MAKE IT?White Wine Sangria

Add fruits to give the drink more color. Mix up some homemade lemonade.

Let mix sit overnight for flavors to blend.Combine lemonade, sugar and wine.


It ll b t b lli h t


23/41

BY MAAYAN SCHECHTER

[email protected]

When putting together an outt for the Triple Crown, its allabout one word to Aiken resident Sissy Brodie: embellishment.

Embellishment, embellish, embellishment is the way tocreate an outt; honey, thats what I always say, Brodie said.You can buy a little thing at a store here and there, but gohome and make it fantastic.

For decades, Brodie and husband Wade have entertained

many with their themed parties during the Aiken Trials, froma rustic hunting theme to green outts for St. Patricks Day anda 1920s Great Gatsby theme.

Themes are never to be repeated, and all women invitedknow to wear a hat if they are attending a Brodie party, shesaid.

Hats should t within the theme; anything thats festive,Brodie said. I dont spend $100 on hats, and I try to alwaysshop local. Im very realistic about the price most of the timebecause all it takes is a little embellishment.

Brodie has her own separate work room in her house lledwith different colored threads, buttons, owers and many dif-

ferent sew-ins where she takes a simple outt or hat and addsthat perfect nishing touch.

Brodie has more than 200 hats.I even have a hat room upstairs, and I have hats dating back

to the 30s, Brodie said. I have tons of different colors andsizes and shapes. Hats are just very important, stylish, and youcan wear them to almost anything. But you cant, dont wear ahat with a scarf. The scarf needs to go under the hat.

Outts for the Aiken Triple Crown are not too hard to gureout, depending on the theme, she said.

Brodie said she doesnt spend too much time eyeing the per-fect outt she will wear, but said she knows the importance of

a good one.I know that people see me sometimes and say, Oh, what

does that woman think she is wearing? Brodie said. I mean,hello, I can read lips. But I like dressing up and having a goodtime.

Like other years, the Aiken Triple Crown this year is impor-tant to Brodie because its another year to wear something new.

The whole environment is really fun, and I like seeing whateveryone else wears, Brodie said. My good friend, Irene Cur-tis, already called me up and said we need go to hat shopping.

Its all about embellishment

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Sissy Brodie said embellishing a simple outfit can make itgreat for the Aiken Triple Crown.

Sometimes the Aiken Trials lines upwith the St. Patricks Day holiday.

Brodie was all smiles in her aquatic-themed outfit at a past event.

Brodie and husband Wade at a pastSteeplechase.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Aiken resident Sissy Brodie wears all white at a previousAiken Spring Steeplechase party, which she and herhusband Wade put together each year.

Aiken resident Sissy Brodie shares fashion tips

Hats are just very important, stylish, andyou can wear them to almost anything.

Sissy Brodie, Aiken resident


R i ilk h i hi t


24/41

BY DERREK ASBERRY

[email protected]

They come in different colors, shapes and

designs and hold a different meaning to eachperson. But despite their differences, they allshare the same similarity: a jockey wont feelcomplete without one.

Since 1515, when they were rst mentionedin England, silks have been a pivotal part ofhorse racing.

Their signicance has held on for almost ex-actly 500 years, and, for an equestrian culturelike Aikens, the silks are a huge part of itsrich history.

Even though racing silks are important

to the equestrian culture, their signicancesparks from meeting a simple need.

Jockeys sport the various colors of racingsilks so spectators can tell the difference be-tween jockeys during the race.

Other than that, Lisa Hall supervisor ofthe Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fameand Museum said there really isnt a hugeamount of meaning in the different silks.

There isnt a specic meaning behind thedifferent colors and shapes, Hall said. Imsure some people may just like a particular

pattern and maybe they hold a personal signif-

icance to them. But the different colors dont

hold a specic meaning.According to facts from the Horse and

Hound a Kentucky-based company that spe-cializes in equestrian gifts the oldest Ameri-can racing colors still in use today are thescarlet racing silks. The silks were createdin 1840 by the John Morris family and werebelieved to be rst used at the Metairie Trackin New Orleans during the 1850s.

Today, every American race horse ownerregisters his silks with The Jockey Club, thesports registry and ruling body.

To date, there are more than 28,000 different

silks registered with the club.Hall said the term silk has survived for

years, even though the product is no longermade from silk.

Conrmed by the Belmont Stakes website,most racing silks today are actually made froma polyester blend, nylon, Lycra or a combina-

tion of the latter two called aerodynamic silks.

The transition to other materials, Hall said,has been both an economic choice and a rac-ing one.

The blends are less expensive than thesilks, which has resulted in less real silks be-ing worn, Hall said. Also, the blends arentas heavy as the original silks, and, with rac-ing, any type of weight that can be taken off

the jockey or horse is helpful.

Racing silks have unique history

STAFF PHOTO BY DERREK ASBERRY

Jack Sadler, of Dogwood Stable, shows atraditional racing silk that is worn by all rac-ers who represent the organization.

The blends are less expensivethan the silks, which has

resulted in less real silks beingworn. Also, the blends arentas heavy as the original silks ...Lisa Hall, supervisor of theAiken Thoroughbred RacingHall of Fame and Museum


Jockey Bernie Dalton is seen at a previousAiken Spring Steeplechase.

S hi t idi bAiken Triple Crown Aiken Standard24:Saturday, March 8, 2014

Village of Shops


25/41

BY MAAYAN SCHECHTER

[email protected]

The annual Carriage Parades brings historyand colorful trimmings to the Aiken Trialsand Steeplechase.

After the rst race at the Spring Steeple-chase, residents and visitors debut their an-tique carriages to thousands of spectators.

The parade of horse-drawn carriages is a

chance for drivers to pull out their fancy hatsand unique carriages.While the parade takes less than an hour,

preparation for the parades takes days, ac-cording to Aiken Driving Club memberDiane Watson.

Of course, you have to clean everything;it should be completely clean, Watson said.They call it presentation, and so you clip theponies and wash them with special shampoosand conditioners. In some cases you willbraid the hair, but its not mandatory. The

leather and brass need to be shining, andbrass takes a lot of polish.

As if the carriages were to be judged forpresentation, some drivers add umbrellas tothe back of the carriage and paint the car-

riages to give off an older feeling.For parades, your carriage must look

like a t raditional vehicle, Watson said. Itseither an antique or a modern-made vehiclereproduction of an antique style in antiquematerial.

Watsons carriage, built sometime before1940 in England, in the past has sported alot of green. The carriages are different fromwhat she calls cross country, or marathon

vehicles.Horses or ponies must also be trained soas not to react to loudspeakers or the crowdcheering. Temperament is important so hors-es or ponies understand they are in a paradeand not about to race, Watson said.

The Aiken Driving Club is a group of verydedicated people, Watson said. It can bevery family-oriented, and its a chance for any-body to drive. ... We encourage new people totry parades, and, if they are ready, they shouldcome. Its a great learning experience.

See history go riding byCarriage parades take much preparation

Village of Shops

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Aiken resident Diane Watson, left, and Windsor resident Mary Sheehy participate in the Aiken Trials Carriage Parade last year with a

four-in-hand team, with ponies named Tartan, Liberty, Pastel and Freedom.

For parades, your carriagemust look like a traditionalvehicle. Its either an antiqueor a modern-made vehiclereproduction of an antiquestyle in antique material.

Diane Watson,Aiken Driving Club member

BY DERREK [email protected]

A 570-mile trip from Baltimore to Ai-ken would obviously take weeks and evenmonths of planning.

For Steve and Trish Kiser owners ofEquine Impressions that trip is practi-cally second nature by now.

The couple is a self-proclaimed horsefamily and has been bringing their ac-cessories to the Steeplechase Village of

Shops since 2001.Its now one of my favorite towns, and

we do as many events as we can in thosetypes of markets, Steve said.

In terms of distance, Carol Leuder ofFair Chase will also be traveling morethan 380 miles from Lexington, Va., tomake the event.

Leuder said this will be her fth yearattending the Village of Shops. Leudersaid she looks for similar events all overthe world and discovered Aikens Steeple-

chase years ago.Aiken has a very strong customers-driven economy, she said. The custom-ers in Aiken appreciate what I bring eachyear, and I try to have something new forthem every time I visit the Steeplechase.

While some vendors travel hundreds ofmiles to attend, Aiken also benets fromlocal shops, as well.

Van Smith, co-owner of Lionel SmithLtd., said his Steeplechase booth will in-clude various shirts and shorts for warm

weather and umbrellas and Barbour coatsfor cool, rainy weather.Attending the event for more than a

decade, Smith said customers from previ-ous years will show up wearing outtsthey bought from the store and allow storeemployees to take pictures for the LionelSmith Facebook page.

Another local shop, Howell PrintingCompany, has been printing programsfor all three legs of the event for years andalso has a booth at the Steeplechase.


Ken Akin of Lionel Smith Ltd. points outsome items that will be available fromthe shop at the Village of Shops at thisyears Spring Steeplechase.


Local business provides tents


26/41

BY DERREK ASBERRY

[email protected]

Most spectators use the week before theAiken Trials to build up their excitement bygoing down memory lane and discussing pastracing seasons.

For All-Star Tents and Events owner MikeFanning, the week before the rst Saturdayof the Aiken Triple Crown is spent out at thetrack.

Fanning has been involved with the AikenTrials for almost 20 years as a volunteer andhas also served on the event committee. Over

the past decade, his involvement has expandedby serving as one of the main suppliers oftents, tables, chairs and other tailgating items.

Typically, we like to get there three daysearly to start setting up, so were out of the waywhen venues start setting their stuff up, heexplained.

Setting up includes putting tables and chairsin the right places at the track, Fanning said.

Once individuals pre-order a spot for an Ai-ken Triple Crown event, using a map online,All-Star employees can pinpoint where they

need to set up individual tents for customers.

Fanning said they started getting calls fromcustomers back in January.

We are seeing more and more individualslooking for tents for their tailgate spots andother spots, Fanning said.

The business has provided tents for the USCAiken Pacers & Polo event and individualtents for tailgaters at the Aiken Spring Steeple-chase.

During this years Aiken Triple Crown, Fan-ning said his business will offer an even newerservice. All-Star will provide high-end rest-rooms for some of the events.

Fanning said the restrooms will be 10-stall

and four-stall trailers that have air conditioning,hardwood oors, stereo and baby changers.

People are willing to spend a little more onquality restrooms rather than a plastic portabletoilet but we still know that if you gotta go,you gotta go, he said jokingly.

He added, The Triple Crown has been astaple of our business from the day we openedAll-Star Tents and Events, and we look for-ward to it every year.

All-Star Tents and Events is a full-serviceparty rental company. The company has been

in business since 2004.

Local business provides tents,more during racing season


All-Star Tents and Events owner Mike Fanning displays the high-end restrooms that will

be available during the Aiken Triple Crown events.


Veterinarians play critical role in steeplechase racing


27/41

BY BEN BAUGH

[email protected]

They have the best interests of the horsesand riders in mind.

Veterinarians play a key role in makingsure a day at the racetrack goes seamlesslyfor the horses, jockeys, owners and specta-tors. Their work often goes unnoticed, buttheir contributions are imperative to the dayssuccess.

Dr. Lisa Handy, Carolina Equine Clinic, isone of those individuals, and plans are put inplace in advance of the races.

The National Steeplechase Associationofce sends the veterinarians attending therace meets reports regarding the horses that

have been scratched from the ticket or havebeen eased in races, so theyre aware of thehorses who may be entered in the overnightfor that particular race meet, Handy said.

The veterinarians are aware if the horse hasor doesnt have an issue, or if theyre comingoff of a layoff.

We actually go over whos going to bethere, said Handy.

The horses listed in the overnight should allbe ready on race day, Handy said.

We do all the pre-race jogs, said Handy.

We let them settle in a bit when they come

off the trailer. The bandages are taken off. Illlook at the tattoos, as does the horse idenit-er. I will make sure the horse that I looked

at will be the horse thats been entered in that

particular race.The veterinarians will run their hands

down each of the horses legs, to see if they

feel or see something, and then they will jog

the horses, Handy said.A number of the horses can sense whats

going to happen next after coming off thetrailer, and the veterinarians will let themsettle down before coming over to do their

pre-race exam, she said.If its not the right time to jog them, well

come back and jog them within a half hourto an hour, said Handy. If we see anything,theyll be scratched before they get to thepaddock. The horses have to settle down, theadrenalines going because its race day, andsometimes you wont see something until lateron. If they go to the paddock and theres an is-sue, we will scratch the horse in the paddock.

The veterinarians concern is two-fold,Handy said. The horses and the jockeys

safety are paramount.There always has to be two veterinarians at

each race meet, she said.If were lucky enough to have three, its

great, said Handy. For sure we need two,somebody in the paddock and someone outby the start. Those are the two importantthings. The veterinarian at the paddock willusually walk up to the nish line. While Imusually out on the course, I wait until therace is completed, but Ill have half the trackcovered. The second vet will have the front

half covered.

Veterinarians play critical role in steeplechase racing


Johnathan Sheppards One Giant Step with Danielle Hodsdon in the irons wins the CharlieS. Bird III at last years Aiken Spring Steeplechase meet at Ford Conger Field.



28/41

BY DEDE BILES

[email protected]

When a horse gets into trouble, the AikenDepartment of Public Safety is ready to act.

Basically, we are on call 24/7, said Sgt.Daymon Spann, who is the commander of

Public Safetys Technical Rescue Team.The Rescue Team responds to emergenciesinvolving humans, as well as crises involvinghorses, cows and other large animals.

Approximately 20 people associated withthe group know how to help big beasts inperil.

Just like people, large animals get intoweird situations where they need to be res-cued, Spann said. But with large animals,youre dealing with more weight, and thereis a lot more potential for misunderstandings

because they cant talk.Examples of things that can go wrong withhorses are falls into ravines in the woods andtrafc accidents in which vans or trailerstransporting the animals turn over or collidewith other vehicles, Spann said.

Last year, two horses got loose in the Pow-derhouse Road area. One got hit by a car andhad to be euthanized.

We are trained and prepared to deal withthose issues, Spann said. We get calls twoor three times a year, on average, that a horse

needs assistance.The rescue team has a large gooseneck

trailer and a smaller trailer that can serve asequine ambulances. The teams other equip-ment includes splints, winches and slings.

We have several rescue glides that are likestretchers for horses, Spann said. We alsohave a custom-made dolly that we can use toroll a horse that is injured, but still standing,into a trailer.

In addition to responding to emergencies,the members of the Rescue Team who work

with large animals will bring their equip-ment to equine events in the area and beavailable to help any horse that suffers aninjury.

All you need to do is contact Public Safetyand ask for us to be there, Spann said.

Money to support the Rescue Teams largeanimal assistance efforts comes from a fundthat is set up with the Aiken SPCAs AlbrechtCenter for Animal Welfare.

We have equipment needs that we arecurrently working on, Spann said. Unfor-

tunately, all the equipment in this eld is ex-pensive because it is so specialized.Veterinarian Lisa Handy, who is the found-

er and owner of the Carolina Equine Clinic,praised the Rescue Teams performance intimes of need. She serves as an adviser to thegroup and also helps treat the animals it res-cues that need extra care.

The Rescue Team is fantastic, and Imglad that we have it, said Handy. It makesfor safer events for the horses that are in-volved and the people.

Large animal rescue team ready to respond


Members of the Aiken Department of Public Safetys Tactical Response Team turn a horse trailer on its side to simulate a traffic ac-cident during a large animal emergency rescue training session at the Carolina Equine Clinic on Powderhouse Road.

Just like people, largeanimals get into weirdsituations where they needto be rescued. But with large

animals, youre dealing withmore weight, and thereis a lot more potential formisunderstandings becausethey cant talk.Sgt. Daymon Spann,Aiken Department of Public SafetysTechnical Rescue Team


Aiken Triple Crown boosts local economy


29/41

BY AMY BANTON

[email protected]

During the Aiken Spring Steeplechase, its

not out of the ordinary for the number of attend-ees on Ford Conger Field to exceed the numberof people who live in the City of Aiken.

More than 29,000 people live in the City, andthat one single event draws between 30,000to 35,000 people to the races, making SpringSteeplechase one of the most popular events inAiken behind the Western Carolina State Fairin the fall.

The Aiken Trials, as well Pacers & Polo, aretwo other big crowd-pleasers.

With all three events combined, the Aiken

area experiences a burst of economic activity.While there has never been a formal eco-nomic impact analysis ofthe Triple Crown, the nan-cial boost to our economyis obvious in many ways,said J. David Jameson,Greater Aiken Chamberof Commerce presidentand CEO. Well enjoythousands of visitors to ourcommunity, and whether

they are house guests orhotel guests, many goodsand services are required to accommodatetheir needs.

Its also a great time to show off the com-munity by encouraging visitors to hit localbusinesses, as well as buy something that isuniquely Aiken, Jameson said.

The Aiken Triple Crown is a great time fordowntown Aiken, said Avery Spears-Ma-honey, executive director of the Aiken Down-town Development Association.

Downtown is an exciting place to be andoffers visitors a unique opportunity to dine,shop and stay in downtown Aiken, Spears-Mahoney said. You will nd that the eques-trian spirit is always alive in downtown; fromne art to unique clothing and home decor itis all here throughout the year. The TripleCrown has a positive impact on downtown,and our businesses see repeat customers fromyear to year.

Local hotel and restaurant owners getpumped about the Aiken Triple Crown each

year as it brings more business, said GrumpysSports Pub owner Randy Eblen.His restaurant is the kind of place where

people like to come for after-parties followingthe equestrian events, he said.

Were denitely looking forward to theTriple Crown, Eblen said.

Jameson cited the recent ice storm thatstruck the area in February, which causedmassive power outages and damage across thecounty. He said its even more important nowto shop Aiken for gifts, services and dining.

Aiken Triple Crown boosts local economy


Melissa Shells and Miranda Wagner browse a sidewalk sale table at Tea Garden Gifts in downtown Aiken.


Shoppers hit the streets for deals in downtown Aiken.

Jameson

Downtown is an excitingplace to be and offers visitorsa unique opportunity to dine,

shop and stay in downtownAiken. You will find that theequestrian spirit is always alivein downtown ...Avery Spears-Mahoney,Aiken DowntownDevelopment Association


Law enforcement agencies


30/41

BY TEDDY KULMALA

[email protected]

As thousands of spectators descend uponAiken to participate in the Triple Crown, lawenforcement will be keeping their eyes on thespectators to make sure everyone keeps theevents safe and fun.

The Aiken Department of Public Safetyprovides law enforcement for the Aiken Tri-als and Pacers & Polo, both of which are heldin the city limits.

The Aiken County Sheriffs Ofce pro-

vides law enforcement for the Aiken SpringSteeplechase.Its a huge event, Lt. Karl Odenthal said

of the Triple Crown. It brings in a lot of out-of-town people. With those three events, itsgood for the horse community, and its goodfor Aiken.

The Spring Steeplechase alone typicallybrings in crowds of about 30,000 people.

Odenthal said preparation for the TripleCrown began immediately after last yearsevents, with an after-action review.

Last year, we did make some changes interms of the pattern that we came in, mainlyfrom the Pine Log Road side, Odenthal said.

One thing that will greatly aid police andin turn, the spectators waiting to park isreading your race packet before leaving forthe Steeplechase, Odenthal said.

Its important to place your color-codedpass in plain view so ofcers can see it anddirect you to the correct gate to enter, hesaid.

The main issue law enforcement deals with

is people overindulging in alcohol, Odenthal

said. This leads to not only arrest for DUI ordisorderly conduct, but intoxicated people

often pile into the backs of pickups verydangerously and run the risk of being injuredwhile the truck is moving, he said.

Make sure you have somebody who candrive afterward, Odenthal said. If everyoneis drinking, you need another plan.

Many people continue the drinking andcelebrating downtown. While the eventsare going on and racegoers permeate everycrevice of Aiken, Odenthal said ofcers arebriefed each morning about what events arehappening.

Everything from those who may overin-dulge to people just being lost or not familiarwith our roadways, he said. You can al-ways anticipate a few of those.

In addition to watching out for increasedpedestrian and vehicle trafc downtown dur-ing the Aiken Triple Crown, its important tobe patient, especially since increased crowdsoften means increased wait times, Odenthalsaid.

Be patient. Places are a little crowded, hesaid. Thats part of what makes downtown

fun, being a member of the crowd.

Law enforcement agencieshelp keep events safe, fun


Pitcher Schaumann, then 3, maintains his personal space as Mary Strauss, then 9, petshorses ridden by Aiken County Sheriffs officers at a previous Steeplechase.


Cpl. Demetrick Drumming and the Aiken Department of Public Safety will be out in full

force keeping people safe when the Aiken Triple Crown gallops into town.

Call a cab

If you find yourself without a ride,call one of several area taxi services,including Aikens Taxi Service (803-642-9910), Aiken Limousine and Transport(803-648-9977) or Carolina Cab (803-648-4545).


31/41

The Third Jewel of the Aiken Triple Crown March 29Pacers&Polo


Pacers& Polo a group effort


32/41

BY JEREMY TIMMERMAN

[email protected]

When the polo match on March 29 is com-pleted, the victorious team wont be the onlywinner for the day.

The match is the centerpiece for this yearsPacers & Polo event, the third leg of theAiken Triple Crown and a fundraiser for theUSC Aiken athletic departments generalscholarship fund.

USCA Athletic Director Randy Warricksaid being a part of the Triple Crown givesthe event great exposure.

When they talk about Pacers & Polo,

everybody thinks about USC Aiken and thePacers, he said.There are several ways to attend the event,

which is in its 11th year.For $100, guests can get frst-row parking

and tailgate right next to the action.VIP Tent tickets are also available for $75,

and general admission tickets are also onsale.

Adult tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at thegate, while childrens tickets are $5. Parkingis also $5.

Assisting with the parking and other duties

during Pacers & Polo will be none other thanthe Pacers themselves.

We let them know right up front, Youneed to be here, said Tim Hall, USCAs as-sociate athletic director of administration andexternal services, of the coaches and athletesthat will be helping out.

Aside from the money raised, the event isan opportunity for members of the depart-ment to establish connections with their sup-

porters, Hall said.Its kind of a community-building eventbetween the university and the community,he said. Get our athletes and coaches outthere helping with things.

Warrick said the community-building effortscould possible be more important than themoney that will be brought into the coffers.

To be honest with you, its a complete,total athletic department effort, he said. Itsa good fundraiser, but if we didnt make anymoney, itd still be worth it, in my mind.

That effort involves all of the departments

teams, at least ideally.The spring sports baseball, softball and

cross country are all in season and will beplaying that Saturday, but they can shoulder

some of the set-up during the week before.Fall sports are not in action, so theyll bedoing stuff the day of, Hall said.

The basketball teams also may be availablefor that day, with their regular season sched-ules coming to an end on March 1.

The Peach Belt Conference tournamentsare after that, hopefully followed by theNCAA Division II tournament.

Were really hoping theyre not there andstill playing, Hall said.

Pacers&Polo a group effortEvents schedule

10:30 a.m.: Gates open

1:00 p.m.: Match begins Thr w b an nng crmny,sx 7-mnut chukkrs, a 20-mnutntrmssn and an awards crmnyat th nd th match.

TICKETS & PARKINGHw t gt tckts | page32What s dvt stmng? |page 33

AIKEN STANDARD file pHoTo

Julia Dane of Aiken aims to sink her bean-bag, playing cornhole at the side of the polo

field at last years Pacers & Polo.Please see

POLO,Page 32


All proceeds go toward


33/41

WHAT: Pacers & PoloWHEN: Saturday, March 29; gates open at10:30 a.m.WHERE: Powderhouse Polo Field, locatedoff Powderhouse Road

TICKETING: $10 for adults at the gate,$8 in advance and $5 for children. For $100,guests can get first-row parking and tail-gate right next to the action.VIP HOSPITALITY TENT TICKET: VIP Tenttickets are $75 per person and includelunch, an open bar and admission to thematch. VIP Tent tickets may be purchasedby calling Debbie Boggs at 803-641-3630or email [email protected]. RSVP by

March 19.PARKING:$5 per car.FOR MORE INFORMATION:Visit web.usca.edu/pacersandpolo.

HOW TO GET TICKETS

That was exactly the case a year ago.The Pacer mens basketball team won thePBC regular-season and tournament titles,hosted the Southeast Regional and also wonthat. It went on to lose in the Elite Eight toDrury, but the Pacer men werent back intime for Pacers & Polo.

They had just gotten knocked off, sadly,Hall said. I was hoping theyd keep playingright on through.

He added that the potentially smallergroup of workers wouldnt negatively im-

pact those still available to work.They have that mindset that they can justroll with the changes, Hall said.

Just how many spectators will be in atten-dance is also in question, Warrick said.

If the weather is favorable with warmertemperatures and no precipitation, the crowdcould reach as many as 3,500, he said.

If cooler weather or rain comes into play,the crowd could be as low as 2,000, he said.

Our event is one that really is dependenton the weather, he said.

POLOCONTINUED from page 31


Anne Weldon, a longtime Triple Crown en-thusiast, watches last years polo action.

BY T.J. LUNDEEN

[email protected]

One Saturday in March helps fund the entireUSC Aiken athletic year.

Pacers & Polo, the third leg of the AikenTriple Crown, is a major fundraiser for thePacer Club.

The club has been a part of the Aiken Triple

Crown for nearly three decades, seeing amajor change during thepartnership.

We originally got startedwith the Triple Crownprobably 25 or 30 yearsago, said Randy Warrick,USCAs athletic director.Roland Windham, whoused to be the city managerin Aiken and was on thePacer Club, came to the

Pacer Club and said therewas an opportunity to get involved with thethird leg of the Triple Crown. He talked tothe Pacer Club board, and we agreed that wassomething we wanted to do. It made sensebecause, at that time, the third leg was harnessracing, which uses pacers. We thought thatwas a very good combination for us.

Then, in 2004, we moved to the polomatch, so this is our 11th year. The way wegot involved with that is that we saw a declinein a number of horses that were coming to

Aiken to train that were harness race horses.About the same time, there was an upstartwith polo, a lot of different people were mov-ing into the area that were involved withpolo. We made the decision that we wanted tochange the third leg of the Triple Crown froma harness race to a polo match.

Team effortMoney from Pacers & Polo ticket sales,

parking and apparel goes back to USCAs

general athletic fund, which funds scholar-ships for student athletes.In regard to the nances of it, certainly

attendance is a big part of how much moneywe make off that event, Warrick said. In agood year, we can make $12,000 to $15,000.That money goes to scholarships; we put itinto our general scholarship fund. Anythingwe do that raises money goes into our generalfund that helps support scholarships. Theresnot a specic Pacers & Polo scholarship. Onescholarship is worth $16,678, and we fund

46 scholarships, so the money helps us coverthat amount that isnt covered through studentfees.

Pacers & Polo is a team event, Warricksaid.

This is truly a total athletic departmenteffort, he said. Its held in the spring time,so spring sports are playing. If baseball, soft-ball, tennis or golf have something theyreparticipating in that weekend, they help us setup during the week. Theyll put out cones forparking, put out trash cans and signs, theyll

set up tables. They come out early in the weekand help. The teams that dont have thingson the event day will come out and help withparking, with collecting tickets and whateverwe need them to do out there. The last fewyears, weve set up some things for children,weve had inatables out there, which thestudent-athletes look after. We also sell T-shirts, which the student-athletes sell. OurPacer Club members and coaches come outand help, as well. Its an athletic departmentevent.

ScholarshipsEndea Ellison, a senior volleyball player atUSCA, calls Pacers & Polo one of her favor-ite events.

In past years, I have helped entertain theyounger audience with several inatablebouncy houses, she said. Its a great feelingto play with the children of the Aiken com-munity, as well as the faculty and staff thatcome out and attend the event. Its one of myfavorite USCA events out of the year, and,this year, I get to wear two hats as I will be at-

tending the event on behalf of the ChancellorAmbassadors and as a student-athlete.Ellison, who is from Orange Park, Fla., ap-

preciates helping raise money for scholarshipsfor herself and her fellow athletes.

Scholarship money is very important tocollege athletes during the initial selectionprocess, she said. If money is the only thingstanding in the way of an athlete experiencingeverything USCA has to offer, Ill work Pac-ers & Polo long after I graduate. I want to doeverything in my power to share my love of

USCA with other students. For my family andme, scholarship money has been very impor-tant. I decided to attend school out of my homestate, and my parents supported me every stepof the way. The scholarship money I receivedhelped my family make a smooth transition tomy out-of-state college experience.

Pacers & Polo will take place on March29 with gates opening at 10:30 a.m. and thematch beginning at 1 p.m.

For more information, visit web.usca.edu/pacersandpolo.

All proceeds go toward

USC Aiken athletic fund

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Endea Ellison, a senior volleyball player atUSC Aiken, calls Pacers & Polo one of herfavorite events. Ellison, who is from Or-ange Park, Fla., appreciates helping raisemoney for scholarships for herself and herfellow athletes, she said.

Warrick

Scholarship money is veryimportant to college athletesduring the initial selectionprocess. ... I want to doeverything in my power toshare my love of USCA withother students. For my familyand me, scholarship moneyhas been very important.Endea Ellison, USC Aikensenior volleyball player



34/41

BY MAAYAN SCHECHTER

[email protected]

Just like Julia Roberts character in PrettyWoman, Aiken Triple Crown attendees cantake part in one of the oldest polo traditionsof stomping divots.

Because the game of polo is played onne Bermuda grass with shallow roots,

horses tend to tear up the eld duringplay, said Bob Besley, Aikens former polo

voice.The horses going down the eld willfrequently lift up or tear parts of the eld,creating a divot, like on a golf course, whenyou hit the grass with a club, Besley said.When grass is torn up and the players aregoing down the eld, the ball will bounce

and frequently become unsteady. The an-nouncer generally encourages people during

half-time of the match to stretch their legsand replace divots.Divot stomping replaces mounds of dirt

torn up by horse hooves, but also allowsspectators to walk around and meet othersand socialize, Besley said.

However, while socializing, be sure to

watch out for small rounds that may not ap-pear to be dirt, Besley said.

Sometimes, like in Pretty Woman, youllhear the announcer say, Watch out for thesteaming divot, Besley said. ... The dirtcan be similar to horse poop. But walkingaround is a big help to put the eld back to-gether again, and everyone plays much betterin the second half.

Meet new friends with divot-stomping tradition

Enthusiastic polo game attendees enjoy stomping the divotsduring half-time at a previous Pacers & Polo event.




35/41


With a little bit of absence of bad luck inthe Travers, and a different kind of ride, heshould have won that. But were quite happy

PALACE


36/41

Aiken connections

Palace Malices victory in the Jim DandyStakes seven weeks later meant a start in theMid-Summer Derby, the Travers Stakes atSaratoga Race Course.

Several friends from Aiken were kindenough to offer me lodging during Trav-ers week in Saratoga. I secured permissionfrom the newspaper to cover the race, ob-tained my press credentials from the NewYork Racing Association, and made my way

to upstate New York.The week was an absolute blast. Severalhorses with Aiken connections were racing.

Dance to Bristol, broken by Tim and CaryFrommer, won the Grade 1 Ballerina Stakeson Aug. 23, the day before the Travers.

But it was the days leading up to the race,spending time with Cot and Anne Camp-bell, Barry and Valerie Bornstein, SusyHaslup, Auggie Vettorino, Tim McKinseyand Susie Bricker, among others, that mademe feel like I was at home in Aiken.

There was nothing like spending time withMr. Campbell in the mornings outside thebarn. I had the privilege of seeing PalaceMalice work, in his stall, and with anotherreporter, talk to Todd Pletcher outside of hisbarn.

The day of the Travers found me spendingtime with the Campbells, Mike and KariSchneider, who are part owners in PalaceMalice, and Ron and Julie Stevens.

Mr. Campbell provided me with a

Triple Crown 2014

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