Aiken means horses. Not only does the city stand at the center of South Carolina's "Thoroughbred Country," it also serves as one of the polo capitals of the world. Aiken has been a renowned equestrian destination since the early 1900s, and the famed Aiken Training Track has become a key part of the area's rich history.


The Aiken Training Track was built by horseman Fred H. Post in the 1940s. Its level ground, sandy soil, and close proximity to Hitchcock Woods (one of the largest urban forests in America) make it an exceptional training center for its size. The track is used for flat racing, and it surrounds what is said to be the oldest known polo field in the country.


The popular Aiken Triple Crown, which is held each spring, features flat racing, steeplechase racing, and polo. The flat racing portion of the event is held here. Over the years, the course has been home to 39 champions, and many trainers consider it integral to their success.

SCIWAY thanks frequent contributor Larry Gleason for these beautiful pictures he took in March 2012.

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