Shawna Harding wows Winthrop Field

By BEN BAUGH

Staff writer

Winthrop Field served as the idyllic backdrop Thursday evening for The Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce's Business After Hours program. The polo field, 12-acres in size, was purchased by the Aiken County Open Land Trust from the Winthrop Family.

Dressage rider Shawna Harding and her outstanding horse, 8 year-old Danish Warmblood gelding Come On III, performed for more than 400 people at the event.

Security Federal hosted the event in conjunction with the chamber. Security Federal's Tim Simmons presented ACOLT's Dr. Harry Shealy with a check prior to Harding's performance.

"Security Federal has always be very open and generous to the Aiken County Open Land Trust," said Dacre Stoker, ACOLT executive director. "We're honored to be here."

The well attended event was demonstrative of the area's economic growth, and the business community's solidarity and support for The Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce.

"We enjoy partnering with ACOLT, we do it every year, and it's great to be able to hold the event outdoors," said Chris Verenes, Security Federal president. "It's a great turnout, we're expecting 400 people. You can't beat the setting and there's great music. We enjoy being part of the community, and this event is one of our favorites."

Bobby Tubas New Orleans Dixieland Band performed at the function.

"It's a wonderful evening, it's great being in the heart of town, on a polo field, and being able to listen to Dixieland band music," said David Jameson, Aiken Chamber of Commerce president. "There are horses in sight, hundreds of people doing business, it's a chamber president's dream come true."