Compete in Battle of the Run Clubs
Barry’s Trail Club Welcome Letter
As with any new business trying to make its way in a competitive marketplace, the Aiken Trails Club @ Stable View is seeking out opportunities to expand and diversify.
If we can expand, we will increase our Membership. If we can diversify, we'll also grow our membership.
As with the Stable View Equestrian business, which is designed for Dressage, Hunter Jumper and Eventing Riders, we're designing our Trails business for Runners, Walkers and Hikers.
Our intention is to diversify what's offered, while using the existing infrastructure of Stable View.
Separate from fifteen miles of trails - happy to create more - that are in 800 acres of primarily woodland, we'd like to offer our Accommodation's (includes five recently purchased Tiny Homes). The Bistro will also be open, and Ollie's Inn will be open for certain events.
The Healing Arts Center will also increasingly play a part in Club activities.
There are now three clearly defined trails for training - the blue, green and red loops. The orange loop with soon follow. Please make sure that you sign the Book before departure.....as mentioned earlier, if there's demand, we'll increase the Trails from 15 miles to 20.
In an environment where land is being
lost, terrain is difficult to find, and money is not being invested in your sport, Stable View would like to put itself forward as a viable alternative......we're also good listeners.
Coach’s Corner With Victoria:
Victoria Seahorn, founding Race Director of the ING Georgia Marathon is a veteran of 30 marathons and numerous half marathons. In addition to her personal experience completing races, Seahorn has created training programs to guide more than 10,000 people to achieve their goal of completing marathons to 5K’s.
During her career, Seahorn has been in demand as a speaker, coach, marathon pace group program organizer and leader. She is the race director of The Aiken Trailblazer at Stable View trail races.
Summertime is upon us! If you are like me, you are not going to stay indoors, but you may have to rethink your training routine. When I ran marathons, I preferred the fall/winter races as I am not a big fan of the heat. However, that meant I had to train in the summer…
Running in hot and humid weather can be risky for some and should be taken seriously. There are ways to beat the heat. Besides always remembering the word of the day, HYDRATE… Using the “buddy” system is a great idea if you are not training with a group. Knowing the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke is of the utmost importance. Be aware of not only your feelings but the signs of your buddy next to you. If either of you show signs such as disorientation, dizziness, rapid heartbeat or nausea, stop running. Try to find shade, cool down, if you can get a baggie of ice and water, apply it to the back of your neck, your groin and/or your wrists and drink water.
Here are a few
ways
have a fun and safer run in the heat:
Hydration is of the utmost importance. Drinking water before, during and after your run. If you are going on a long run, make sure you carry enough water
with you or place some bottles on your designated route.
Clothing is important. Today we have so many options to choose from. Wearing light colors, a hat and sunscreen is most helpful. And, if you are going shopping, look for the wicking and UVA materials. I always wear a bandana on the long runs. Wetting it, especially in cold water is an excellent refresher.
Scheduling and routes. If you have a choice, choose the coolest time of the day. If it is hot no matter what time of the day, choose a shaded route and don’t be afraid to run slower and/or take walk breaks. Remember, safety first and hydrate.
Test your summer running skills by joining Coach Victoria at her famously hot trail race on Sunday, July 13, at Harbison State Park in Columbia, SC! Aiken Trails Club members can enjoy a 15% discount using the promo code: ATC25. Sign up at this link.
My Favorite Summer Running Kit:
By Sarah Hansel
Tifosi SunglassesNeed sunglasses that stay put, look cool, and don't cost a fortune?
Try Tifosi. I love these, but I don't stress about them. I almost forget I have them on, which to me, is the sign of a good product.
Patagonia Cool Lightweight Shirts-
These shirts are so light and breathable that they are the only ones I want to race or even train in. It comes in both a t-shirt and a tank; I will usually wear the T with a vest for longer runs, and the tank with the Naked belt on really hot days.
Rabbit Smashems shorts-
Fabric so light you'll forget you have them on, a high, soft wasteband, and endless pockets make these my go to shorts on hot humid days. If you are worried about chaffing on humid days, they also come in a spandex version, but with the same high waistband and pockets.
Naked BeltToo hot for a hydration vest but you still need lots of storage? A running belt is the way to go, and Naked is my favorite one for summer running. Stretchy but not bouncy, with tons of storage, and easy to wash, this gets a ton of use from me on hot summer days.
Trail Map:
Battle of the Run Clubs:
On Saturday, October 18, 2025, The Aiken Trails Club will launch The Battle of the Run Clubs: a showdown where run clubs will compete not only for bragging rights but for a perpetual trophy that will bear the names of each year’s winning club. The race will be a 10k cross-country style course that challenges participants with a mix of terrain.
Further details about the event, course, and registration will be announced soon. The Battle of the Run Clubs will be a memorable morning, where friendly competition, and the joy of the running community come together.
Wallace: The OG Trailblazer of Aiken Trails Club
@ Stable View:
At Stable View, a trailblazing force has re-emerged—none other than Wallace, otherwise known as the OG Trailblazer. His passion for the outdoors and dedication to maintaining the trails have made him a pivotal figure in The Aiken Trails Club @ Stable View. Wallace's commitment to creating and implementing single track trails specifically designed for runners, walkers, and hikers demonstrates his love for nature and community.
From a young age, Wallace has felt a deep connection to the trails at Stable View and surrounding properties. Playing hide and seek in the Kalmia as a child sparked his enthusiasm for exploring the great outdoors and running. Today, he continues to regularly walk and explore the trails. His daily walks have transformed from casual strolls to purposeful lopping sessions to enhance the experience for all who use them.
As a fixture on the trails, Wallace is becoming well-known among club members. His enthusiastic demeanor and willingness to show others around—even if it means venturing off the marked paths— make him a welcoming face on any outing and at the biannual Aiken Trailblazer races. He encourages members to explore the new trails
In an effort to keep everyone informed, The Aiken Trails Club has decided to feature regular updates from Wallace in our monthly newsletters. These updates will not only provide trail maintenance tips and reminders, but they may also delve into the history of the trail system. For instance, some of the trails were once roads, providing a unique glimpse into the area’s past.
The OG Trailblazer's June Trails Report: caution is advised on the blue loop stretch that runs parallel to the railroad. Following recent heavy rains, the soil and clay have become saturated, leading to slippery conditions that could pose challenges for hikers and runners. Wallace's legacy as the OG Trailblazer is not just about carving paths through the underbrush; it’s about fostering a community that values the outdoors and works together to preserve it. So, whether you are a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, join Wallace on the trails and embrace the adventure.
Stronger Together: How Yoga and Running/Walking Benefit One Another:
Why the Pair Works
In the world of fitness and wellness, we often hear about finding balance—between effort and ease, movement and stillness, discipline and restoration.
Nowhere is that balance more naturally struck than in the combination of yoga and running or walking. These practices, while seemingly different, can beautifully complement each other to improve physical health, mental clarity, and overall wellbeing.
Running and walking are rhythmic, repetitive, and forwardmoving. They strengthen the cardiovascular system, improve endurance, and offer a meditative quality through consistent motion. Yoga, on the other hand, encourages stillness, flexibility,
breath awareness, and introspection. Together, they create a synergy:
Yoga helps runners and walkers prevent injury, recover faster, and improve body mechanics.
Running and walking help yogis build cardiovascular strength, stamina, and mental resilience.
For the Runner/Walker: Why Add Yoga?
1.Injury Prevention
Repetitive motion can create tightness in the hips, hamstrings, calves, and lower back. Yoga poses like Pigeon, Downward Dog, and Lizard target these areas, lengthening muscles and reducing strain on joints.
2. Improved Posture and Form
A strong core and improved spinal alignment from yoga can enhance gait and reduce unnecessary movement, making each step more efficient.
3. Enhanced Breath Control
Yoga teaches deep, diaphragmatic breathing, which can improve oxygen intake and help manage fatigue during long runs or hikes.
4. Mindfulness and Focus
Learning to stay present on the mat can translate into stronger mental stamina on the trail—especially when the finish line feels
For the Yogi: Why Add Running or Walking?
1.Heart Health
While yoga does offer physical exertion, walking and running boost heart rate and cardiovascular endurance in ways yoga alone might not.
2. Bone Density & Strength
Weight-bearing impact activities like walking and running can help maintain healthy bone density—especially important as we age.
3. Mood Elevation
The endorphin boost from running or brisk walking complements the calming effects of yoga, supporting emotional well-being from
4. Functional Fitness
Taking the strength and flexibility gained on the mat and applying it to practical movement outside reinforces whole-body coordination and balance.
The Best of Both Worlds
Whether you're walking the trails at Stable View, training for a 5K, or unwinding in a gentle yoga class, these practices serve as checks and balances for each other. Running and walking energize. Yoga restores.
Stable View currently hosts three yoga classes a week in the upstairs of the pavilion. They are Monday and Thursday mornings from 8am-9:15am and Friday evenings from 6pm-7pm. Yoga classes cost $15. There is no need prior experience needed and Stable View provides mats and blocks. So next time you lace up your shoes, consider rolling out your mat too. Your stride—and your soul—will thank you.
Trails Club Wildlife Update:
In May, contracted biologist Mark Pavlosky from MPJ Wildlife Consulting conducted a thorough check of the bird boxes located on the conserved land at Stable View. The conserved land is also home to the trail system. During his inspection, he recorded vital data, including the number of species, eggs, nestlings, and
fledged chicks. Notably, he found a total of 177 bluebird eggs, with 52 nestlings and 41 fledglings observed. The red-cockaded woodpecker showed promising signs of productivity, with 8 eggs and 6 nestlings, with fledging expected in 10 to 14 days. Other species like the Eastern Screech-Owl and Tufted Titmouse also had nests nearing fledging, with 2 nestlings for the owls and 8 for the titmice. However, early season checks revealed several instances of nest failures and predation, prompting the installation of predator baffles. During your next jaunt on the trails, take note of the bird boxes now equipped with new baffles, enhancing the nesting environment for our feathered friends!
The Bistro at Stable View:
he Bistro at Stable View launched last Summer and has only continued to grow. It is now open Mondays-Fridays 8am-4pm and most show and run weekends (with the exception of recognized horse trials). The menu has grown, but still includes classics such as the Stable View Burger and Breakfast Sandwich. The menu has expanded to also include gluten-free and vegetarian options. Trails Club members receive a discount code to use at the Bistro. It makes for the perfect treat post run or walk.