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Volume 2 Issue 1

Aiken Trails Club Newsletter January Edition Winter Running Tips

from Coach Victoria & Sarah Hansel

A Few Initial Thoughts & Glimpse into Stable View Flora with Emma Rogerss

In this edition you will find: Trails Club Calendar.....................................................3 Barry’s Trail Club Welcome Letter...........................4 Battle of the Run Clubs...............................................5 Coach’s Corner with Victoria.....................................7 Sarah’s Winter Running Kit........................................8 The OG Trailblazer - New Year, New Trail.............10 A Few Initial Thoughts with Emma Rogers...........12

Trails Club Calendar:

2026 January 3 @ 8am – Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk January 24 @ 8am – Battle of the Run Clubs 10mile/10k/5k hosted by Aiken Trails Club at Stable View Registration HERE February 7 @ 8am – Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk February 27 – March 1 – Yeti Dark Horse Ultra (event will not be hosted by Aiken Trails Club) Registration HERE March 7 @ 8am – Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk April 11 @ 8am – Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk April 18: Aiken Trailblazer at Stable View Spring Race May 9 @ 8am – Aiken Trails Club Monthly Group Run/Walk

Barry’s Trail Club Welcome Letter As we go into the New Year, we’re dealing with a problem that’s been created by Stable View’s success. Between The Aiken Trails Club @ Stable View, Eco Tours, The Local Hunt (Whiskey Road), and the Land Rover Experience, (https://experience.landroverusa.com/) we’re now in a situation where we’re going to need to better organize ourselves. If managed carefully, none of these events should be in conflict - they can all co-exist. The Hunt is generally here on a Sunday. Land Rover will normally be providing “Experiences” during Equestrian weekends. Eco Tours will be by arrangement, mid-week, during the mornings and early afternoon. Going forward, Stable View is going to have a “Back 850 acres Calendar.” This will be available soon on the Stable View web site. What you might ask will the Trails Club get out of this? We’ll get some new paths, some new bridges and additional human resources will be provided to keep the trails in good condition. Just in case you’re worried, top Land Rover speed as they navigate their courses is 5 MPH - if you see one, you’ll probably be overtaking it!!

Happy New Year! -The Stable View Team

January 24, 2026 HOW TO ENTER: Run Clubs/Teams: All runners will enter individually, listing their team/ club name on the entry form. We realize that organizing a group of friends can be like herding cats, so don't feel like you need to fill all four slots before signing up. If a team comes up short, you will be matched with a "Free Agent" to ensure you are still eligible for an overall score. Individuals: if you don't belong to a run club and still want to participate, you are more than welcome. On the entry form, when the team name is requested, simply enter "Free Agent" and we will match you with a mixed team. There will be awards for the top three finishers in each individual race as well. SCORING: There will be 6 races: Men's 10 mile Women's 10 mile Men's 10k Women's 10k Men's 5k Women's 5k

6 Each runner may choose the distance that suits them best. Each race will be scored equally, as follows: 1st place - 1 point 2nd place - 2 points 3rd place- 3 points 4th place- 4 points And so on.... Team scores will consist of the top 4 best placings, with the goal of earning the LOWEST overall team score. Teams can be as large as you want, the more the merrier, as more runners give you more chances at earning top placings. Additional runners on a team will not add to the score, but can definitely still contribute by bumping runners from other teams down in the rankings. Don't feel like running, but would like to volunteer? Contact the Aiken Trails Club, as we'd certainly love a few extra hands on race day. Hope to see you all out there this January for some fun and friendly competition! Registration now available on RunSignUp HERE and on UltraSignUp HERE

Sponsored by:

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. uring her career, Seahorn has been in demand as a speaker, coach, D marathon pace group program organizer and leader. She is the race director of The Aiken Trailblazer at Stable View trail races.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! It’s time to make those New Year’s resolutions. That’s the easy part. The more difficult part is putting into action those resolutions… Every January 1st, I run. I started this tradition many years ago, whether the weather was challenging, or a beautiful falling snow, whether I had a stress fracture or a bad cold, I always ran, even if only a mile. I look at this as setting the tone for the year. Running strong. As for resolutions, I find it best to set small goals, goals that are somewhat easy to attain. Unlike when I first started running and decided to go for a marathon instead of a 5K. January is usually tough to get back into the swing of things as most of us have had time off, had lots of fun with family and usually over indulged. Perhaps a 5K a month, or a training schedule for a springtime race or join a training group so you have some accountability on the cold winter days. January is the perfect time to focus on endurance instead of speed, easing back into your normal routines. Even if you didn’t get a chance to run much during the holidays, your muscles will quickly remember what to do. Just be kind to them

😊

8 I know I’ve said it in the past, but I must reiterate the importance of wearing proper clothing in the super cold weather. Layer up, but not too much, since our core body temperature shoots up to about 20 degrees once you get going. And don’t forget to hydrate! I coach middle school track and it’s amazing how many kids don’t think they need to drink water because it’s cold outside. Finally, remember to enjoy this time of the year, don’t be afraid or intimidated by the cold temps.It can be most invigorating and if you are lucky enough to run in a little snow, then that is just magical. Happy Running, Coach Victoria

Aiken Trailblazer @ Stable View Half Marathon/15k/5k/Kids Fun Run Saturday, April 18, 2026 For more information or to register click HERE

Sarah’s Winter Running Kit

by Sarah Hansel

Winter running gear for South Carolina isn’t about hardcore cold — it’s about managing cool mornings, humidity, wind, and the occasional surprise rain. The trick is staying comfortable as conditions shift mid-run, without overdressing or ending up soaked in sweat. Light layers, good fabrics, and a bit of weather protection go a long way. On the bottom, lightweight, breathable tights are generally a good choice for winter miles. I especially love the Patagonia Endless Run tights, which come in multiple lengths. They hit that sweet spot of warmth without overheating, and the pocket design is genuinely runner-friendly. Phone, gels, keys — everything stays secure and doesn’t bounce, even when you pick up the pace. The fabric breathes well, which matters a lot when a chilly start turns into a mild finish. Up top, it all starts with a breathable underlayer. This is the piece that decides whether you feel dry or clammy after 20 minutes. A lightweight synthetic base layer pulls moisture away fast and dries quickly, which is key in South Carolina’s winter humidity. It keeps your core comfortable without locking in heat you don’t actually need. I generally love everything from the Patagonia Capilene® Cool collection. Over that, a merino wool–based long sleeve is a winter MVP. Merino regulates temperature naturally and, unlike many synthetics, it keeps you warm even when wet — from sweat, drizzle, or coastal mist. It’s ideal for those gray, in-between days where the weather can’t quite make up its mind.

Over that, a merino wool–based long sleeve is a winter MVP. Merino regulates temperature naturally and, unlike many synthetics, it keeps you warm even when wet — from sweat, drizzle, or coastal mist. It’s ideal for those gray, in-between days where the weather can’t quite make up its mind. I like a quarter zip with a collar, as it keeps the cold air off your neck as you are starting out, but then unzips to cool you off as you warm up. There are a zillion options for this, but the Tracksmith Session Quarter Zip is especially nice. For the outer layer, go with a proper rain jacket or windbreaker. You’re not looking for insulation here, just protection. A lightweight, breathable shell that blocks wind and sheds rain is perfect for exposed runs or sudden weather changes, and bonus points if it packs down small enough to stash once the sun comes out. For warmer, dryer days, I'm a big fan of the Patagonia AirShed Pro, which is light weight and just enough to keep off a cold breeze. For more aggressive weather, I swear by the Columbia Outdry jackets; they are the only raincoat I actually trust to keep me dry in a proper downpour. They are a bit heavier than some others, but 100% worth it if you are expecting to be cold and wet for hours.

Finally, don’t forget gloves, preferably merino wool. Cold hands can ruin a run faster than cold legs, even when temperatures aren’t extreme. Merino gloves breathe, stay warm when damp, and are comfortable across a wide temperature range. If your fingers run cold, mittens are even better — keeping fingers together traps heat more efficiently, making a noticeable difference on chilly, windy mornings. Lightweight merino mittens are usually all you need, and easy to pocket once you warm up. I personally love the Smartwool Knit Mitt, as they are not too expensive and I can just throw them into the wash with the rest of my gear. Bottom line: keep it light, breathable, and adaptable — South Carolina winter running rewards smart layers, not bulk.

Patagonia Air Shed Pro pictured on Running Warehouse

**Aiken Trails Club Members receive a discount at RunningWarehouse.com **

The OG Trailblazer - New Year, New Trail

by Wallace Watkins & Kena Black

This Fall, somewhere between determination and curiosity, I found myself carving out a brand-new stretch of single track, to connect into what was a preexisting dead-end trail. Now there’s about three-quarters of a mile of fresh dirt winding through the woods! This new trail slips through the woods and is right at 0.75 mile, give or take a step or two, and it has got views that’ll make you slow down whether you plan to or not. Even the fastest might find an excuse to “adjust a shoe” just to soak it in. The trail ties in neatly with an existing halfmile stretch that dead ends at the creek where it runs under the stone railroad bridge. That part already had a good reputation after it was included in the Spring 2024 Trailblazer Half Marathon —cool water flowing by, shade, an old stone railroad bridge and a conversation piece of a hill.

Photos courtesy of Kim Estep

Now, that 0.5-mile trail isn’t just there for looks. It’s got a hill. And a proper one. Not a terribly mean hill, but definitely memorable to most. After that climb, it evens out and feeds right into the Blue Loop, so by the time you ascend it, you feel like you’ve earned whatever comes next. Some folks got a sneak peek at our December First Saturday outing. I tried to act casual about it, like I hadn’t spent more time out there than I probably should have. Then Trails Club member Beth Hammelbacher came through and said, “Wallace has outdone himself and carved out another beautiful wonderland trail that will add much joy to our running miles.” Now, I’m not one to argue with Beth, so I’ll let her have the final word on that. All I’ll say is this: the trail is now there. It’s meant to be run and enjoyed. And if it brings a bit more joy to our miles together, then I’d say the work was worth every minute.

Photos courtesy of Beth Hammelbacher

The OG Trailblazer Trails Report: January and February will bring more equine traffic on the trails as the Winter Boarders arrive at Stable View, escaping snow and ice so they can keep training and competing. With more horses on the trails, it’s a good time to remember that horses always have the right way. Slow down, announce yourself, and give them plenty of space. A little courtesy goes a long way toward keeping the trails safe and enjoyable for everyone.

A Few Initial Thoughts

by Emma Rogers

Emma is the newest addition to the Marketing Team at Stable View, joining the team in September. A recent college graduate, Emma received her Bachelor's of Business Administration in International Business in May of 2024 from Florida International University, and went on to attain a Master's of Science in Global Strategy & Sustainability from the University of Edinburgh in November 2025. Working at the intersection of business strategy, content creation, and eco-consciousness, Emma is excited to aid in the continued development of Stable View’s environmental endeavors.

Environmental-

With over 800 acres of conservation land, Stable View helps manage the local ecosystem in a way that benefits both plant life and animal life. Purchased in 2015, Stable Views conservation land is rather unique, as it highlights the geographical divide between the coastal plains region, and the rocky piedmont region. Home to diverse array of plant and animal life, Stable View has implemented two programs to help support these populations: the nest box program, and the honeybee hive program. The nest box program supports native bird populations, such as the Red Cockaded Woodpecker, by providing them with a safe place to hatch and fledge. With over (x) nest boxes located throughout the conservation land, Stable View has witnessed several bird species fledge younglings into the wild. The honeybee hive program has been implemented with the ambition of supporting the natural pollination process of honeybees. This has involved bringing in new honeybees, and providing them with a space to build their hive(s) in a safe environment, as well as providing them with nutrients as necessary. Beyond the conservation land, Stable View is dedicated to fostering a mutualistic relationship between humans and wildlife, which helps guide many of Stable View’s decisions.

16 Stable View Herbal-

In 2025, Stable View purchased a greenhouse with the goal of propagating native plants, growing, and harvesting them in order to utilize them in a holistic line natural of self-care products. These products would range from teas, to serums, balms, sprays, and salves, all made with natural, non-irritating ingredients. For instance, American Beautyberry can be crushed and used to keep biting bugs off of people and horses, and Wild Yam can be transformed into a serum to help soothe sensitive, dry, or irritated skin.

A Glimpse into Stable View Flora With the launch of Stable View Eco-Tours, we wanted to introduce four of Stable View’s notable plant varieties that you can look forward to seeing come springtime. Kalmia latifolia Kalmia latifolia, also known as Mountain-laurel, is a flowering shrub which is native to South Carolina and much of Eastern North America. In fact, you can find Kalmia blooming from as far north as Southern Quebec, as far south as the Florida Panhandle, and as far west as Louisiana. First recorded growing in the wild in 1624, Kalmia latifolia is known for its beautiful blossoms in late spring and early summer. Ranging in color from white to deep rose, the Kalmia latifolia shrubs at Stable View create a sea of colorful flowers that you won’t want to miss. Ceratiola ericoides Ceratiola ericoides, also known as Florida Rosemary, or Sandhill Rosemary, is an evergreen shrub that plays a critical role in the ecosystem by maintaining dune structures and producing fruit for wildlife. Capable of growing up to 6 feet tall, Sandhill Rosemary can be found west to the Mississippi, to the coastal plains of South Carolina, and south throughout the coastal regions of Florida.

Pinus taeda Pinus taeda, or Loblolly Pine, is native to 15 U.S. states, including South Carolina6. Averaging 60 feet in height, but capable of growing up to 150 feet tall, this pine species thrives in sandy or gravelly savannas & hilly woodlands—just like Stable View. In the South, Loblolly means “a depression”, but the Loblolly Pine has been known by many names throughout its history, including: rosemary pine, old field pine, bull pine, Indian pine and longstraw pine. First recorded as growing in river bottoms, the Loblolly pine plays an important role in the ecosystems they reside in, helping to support white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, quail, rabbits, squirrels, and songbirds, just to name a few. Callicarpa americana Callicarpa americana, or American Beautyberry, is a hardy, resilient shrub species easily identified by its clusters of dark pink/purple fruit. Growing natively as far south as Mexico and the Caribbean, and as far north as Maryland, the American Beautyberry can be found growing in low, rich bottomlands, at the edges of swamps, in piney woods, and in coastal woodlands. Known as a pioneer species (one of the first species to grown in recently disturbed areas), the American Beautyberry’s seeds and fruit provide a key food source for wildlife such as songbirds, white-tailed deer, armadillo, foxes, raccoons, and possums. Historically, American Beautyberry has been useful to Indigenous communities, in which the plants roots, leaves, and branches were used to treat ailments such as malarial fevers, rheumatism, sour stomach and dysentery. Then, in the early 20th century, Farmers used crushed Beautyberry leaves to repel biting insects from mules and horses by placing a Beautyberry poultice under their bridles.

Aiken Trails Club Map:

Click here to join the Aiken Trails Club at Stable View.