Backstretch Experience

The heavy breathing and thunder of hooves is an experience like no other. Racehorses have been training at the historic Aiken Training Track since 1942 and now you can get a behind the scenes look at these young equine athletes before they leave to race at tracks all over the United States. Watch horses on the track for their morning training before going back to Legacy Stable. You will be close to the horses, trainers and exercise riders, so bring your camera! After horses train, Brad Stauffer, head trainer of Legacy Stable, will talk about the equipment used in training, the diet of a racehorse, conformation, track composition and more. There will also be a question-and-answer period. This program is $30 and for participants ages 12 (with an adult) and up. Space is limited. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

Those taking part should meet at the Rye Patch parking lot, 100 Berrie Road, at 8:45 a.m. and will be transported to the Aiken Training Track by mini-bus. Registration and payment may be done at the H. O. Weeks Center, 1700 Whiskey Road, Aiken, S.C.