Trails Club Calendar:
2026
June 6 @8am - Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk
June 25 - 28 - Camp-Run-A-Muck Running Retreat - For more information or sign up HERE
July 11 - Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk
August 1 - Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk
September 1, 2026 – Middle School X-Country Meet
September 3, 2026 - High School X-Country Meet
September 5, 2026 - Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk
September 8, 2026 - High School X-Country Meet
September 15, 2026 – Middle School X-Country Meet
October 3, 2026 - Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk
October 20, 2026 – Middle School X-Country Meet
October 22, 2026 - High School X-Country Meet - Senior Invitational
October 24, 2026 – Fall Aiken Trailblazer Marathon/Half Marathon/10k/5k/Kids Fun Run
October 29, 2026 - High School X-Country Meet - Regional Qualifier
November 14, 2026 - Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk
December 5, 2026 - Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk
January 23, 2027 - Battle of the Run Clubs - For More information or sign up HERE
February 26-28, 2027 - Return of the Trail Running Cult
May 15, 2027 - Announcement Soon
Trails Club Monthly Letter
The Aiken Trails Club has accomplished more than originally envisioned over the past year. There has been a unbelievable growth, a the community has taken shape, new single track trails added, the launch of Battle of the Run Clubs, growth of The Aiken Trailblazer, local cross country teams now compete here and were the venue for the first ultra marathon at Stable View!
Another area of growth we learned to manage last summer was grass on the trails during the Summer months - am happy to report the that Blue Loop has been freshly cut and the Red Loop soon to follow.
On the horizon for our second year, the launch of an annual adult running camp this June, the Trailblazer will expand to include the Marathon this October, the return of the Trail Running Cult ultra and the debut of another ultra geared towards walkers and hikers. And hopefully more fun to come.
The most important net result of this continued growth is the community that has come together. Supportive with no pressure, no judgement, at Trails Club we run, walk, hike, trot, ramble....
Just hit the trails at whatever pace that suits and don’t stop starting.
Welcome to the Trailhead (Part 2): Long Run Listens
by Sarah Hansel
Hey there, fellow trail family!
There is nothing quite like lace-up time on a long run day. When you’re staring down a big mileage block, packing your vest with snacks is only half the battle; you also have to figure out how you're going to keep your brain happy for all those hours on the dirt. For me, that’s where ultra running podcasts come in. Honestly, clipping into a great episode is my absolute favorite way to tackle a long effort. Not only does it make the time fly by, but having those voices in your ear is incredibly motivating and entertaining when the legs start to feel heavy. Plus, I always walk away from a run with a massive list of new, wild races I’m suddenly daydreaming about signing up for. Whether you need a distraction from a steep climb or just want to feel connected to the community while you log your weekly miles, here are a few of my absolute favorite long run listens that deserve a spot in your queue.
Singletrack
Hosted by Finn Melanson, Singletrack’s long‐form interviews are unhurried and thoughtful, making them perfect companions for big mileage days when you want to settle into a rhythm and hear from people who live and breathe the sport. You’ll get race previews, postrace breakdowns, behind-the-scenes decisions, and honest looks at setbacks and comebacks. What I love most is how it keeps me connected to the professional scene without feeling like dry analysis; it’s full of real insight and “oh wow” moments. I especially enjoy the Long Run Archives, where Finn is joined by Brett Horning and Jeff Colt and others to shoot the breeze about some of the most current debates and drama in the sport. It's full of hot takes and speculation, and endlessly entertaining, making the miles fly by as you get caught up in the gossip of the day.
Listen on Apple or Spotify
Freetrail
Professional ultrarunner Dylan Bowman sits down with a wide mix of guests: elites, coaches, business folks, and outdoor legends, for thoughtful, long format conversations that go way beyond race results. What draws me in is the rich trail culture vibe: stories about the community, the lifestyle, and the bigger picture of why we run these ridiculous distances. I especially enjoy Rest Day, when he pairs with Corrine Malcom to do an episode similar to Singletrack’s Long Run Archives, full of hot takes and drama from the sport we all love.
On a long run, it’s the kind of engaging, uplifting and entertaining chat that keeps your mind in the game when the body wants to quit.
SWAP (Some Work, All Play)
Hosted by coaches David and Megan Roche, SWAP blends training science, joyful encouragement, and a whole lot of heart. These two are unfiltered and very much over-caffinated, and their chemistry, humor, and genuine care for athletes make every episode feel like a pep talk from coaches who believe in you fiercely. Think Ted Lasso, but for running. It’s uplifting, nerdy in the best way, and perfect for runs when you need a mental boost.
Boulder Boys
Hosted by a crew of professional trail runners based in Boulder, Colorado, just shooting the breeze about their training, races, local trails, memes, and whatever else is happening in the ultra world, the Boulder Boys show is definitely one of my favorites and something I look forward to each week. It has a casual, bro-vibe, and is full of hot takes and inside jokes. It almost feels like you are eavesdropping on a post-run hangout with the fastest guys in town. On a tough long run, the humor and easy-going chatter make the suffering feel way more bearable (and often pretty darn hilarious).
Listen on Apple or Spotify
Hemming and Hawing
Pro trail runners Tabor and Eli Hemming pull back the curtain on real mountain life: the racing highs, brutal training lows, family logistics, and all the weird, unexpected stuff that happens between start lines and on the ranch, as they combine the real life struggle of raising cattle with the dream of being professional runners. Their storytelling is raw, honest, and full of heart, no sugar-coating the struggles or the magic. What keeps me hooked is how intimate and human it feels; it reminds you that even the pros deal with the same doubts and joys we all do.
Listen on Apple or Spotify
No matter which of these shows you queue up for your next long effort, remember that the miles are always a little sweeter when you’re sharing them, even if it’s just through your headphones.
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.
Throughout 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 Here!
The temperatures and humidity are definitely signs of summer. So now it’s time to get acclimated. If possible, running in the morning before it gets too hot or running late in the evening are the best times to get your training and conditioning in. And always remember, the word of the day is “hydrate”. If you do have to run in the heat of the day, your pace will most likely be slower than normal. Listen to your body as it knows how to adjust to the summer condition so that you can get those miles in. If need be take walk, breaks, drink water, electrolytes and a small pouch of pickle juice will help with any cramping in the heat.
Heat Exhaustion
It’s important to know the signs of heat illness. Run with a friend so you can keep each other in check. Be vigilant about the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, such as dizziness, nausea, confusion, or rapid heartbeat. If you experience these symptoms, stop running and seek medical attention. Cool down immediately by moving to a cooler place and drinking water. If you have a towel or bandanna, soak it in water and put it around your neck. Cold water or ice will help to cool you down quickly especially by placing it on your wrists.
Proper Attire
Clothing choices can help considerably. Wear light colored, loose fitting, moisture wicking, clothing, avoid dark colors and cotton, which absorb heat and can make you feel hotter. Consider Running with a hat and sunglasses to protect your head and eyes from the sun. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF rating, 30 or higher, and four star UVA rating at least 30 minutes before you run and reapply frequently.
Summertime Special
Take your mind off the heat and join us for a fun time at Camp-Run-A-
Muck later this month! This summer camp for adults is geared towards anyone - road or trail - that just wants to improve plus afternoon activities will be indoors!
Camp-Run-A-Muck
Join the fun at Camp Run-A-Muck this summer — where your inner kid gets to stay up late, play in the dirt, and run wild… just with better snacks and a slightly earlier bedtime.
This 3-day, all-inclusive running and wellness camp is set at Stable View in Aiken, South Carolina — a sprawling, trail-laced playground built for adventure, connection, and a whole lot of good, sweaty fun. Think summer camp… but upgraded for grown-ups. Your days are packed (in the best way) with trail runs, coaching workshops, nutrition chats that actually make sense, yoga to stretch it all out, and even a self-defense session to keep things interesting. In between? Chef-prepared meals that’ll make you forget all about cafeteria food, plus plenty of time to kick back, swap stories, and make new friends.
Pictured below are the camp’s three primary facilitators. Click the link (Camp-Run-AMuck) to learn more about each of them, the camp, or reserve your spot!
Kayla Fitzgerald: Endurance Nutrition
Andy Watford: Watford’s School of Krate
Coach Victoria Seahorn: Marathon Majic
The OG Trailblazer:
Fall Marathon & Aunt Lucille’s Summer Salad
I’m just going to beat Coach Victoria to the punch and let the cat out of the bag. Y’all are in for a treat this Fall if you’re running the marathon at The Aiken Trailblazer because it’s not two loops of the Half Marathon. Instead, it’s become a Springfield Church Road neighborhood event across four (maybe five) private properties.
All this to say, my loyal trailblazing intern, Rylan, and I have been busy working across the road and blazing a single track trail so they can start mapping the route and planning. It’s nearly a mile long and winds through some beautiful scenery.
Since I’ve been running around like a chicken without a head, am going to share a recipe with you that helps keep me fueled and cooled now that our annual outdoor sauna is on full blast.
Trails Report:
HYDRATE! Wear your bug spray. With all the rain, the footing on the Red Loop side is ideal and watch out for the wet clay on the Blue Loop!
Aunt Lucille’s Summer Salad
First, the recipe has never been written down so you have to take your best guess at the quantity of each ingredient.
Ingredients:
Canned Tuna
Pasta - Aunt Lucille used spaghetti, but any type of pasta you prefer will do
Mayonnaise Pickles
Diced Onion
Chopped Boiled Eggs
Diced Bell Pepper
Salt & Pepper to taste
Fresh Tomatoes - the fresher, the BETTER
1.Cook the pasta and eggs.
2.Once all ingredients are prepared, mix in a large bowl.
3.Refrigerate for a few hours (or longer).
4.Serve with diced tomatoes on the side.
The beauty of Aunt Lucille’s salad is you can add whatever you like and leave out anything that doesn’t suit your taste. Bon Apetit!
News and Updates
The Healing Arts Studio has implemented a new reservation system that is much more user friendly. To book your yoga class with Amanda, Cate or Elena, click HERE
This Spring, a new Trail Map Sign orientated in the proper direction was installed along the sand road before one goes into the clay pit!
Aiken Trails Cl b L Map:
