Weekend drive marks autumn in Aiken

The 24th Aiken Driving Club's Fall Weekend Invitational Drive was evocative of another era as the event not only showcased the majestic beauty of the horse and the fine craftsmanship of the carriages Saturday morning but also provided spectators with an intimate look into the past and what was once the preferred mode of transportation.

Spectators lined the parade route and were awe-inspired by the horses and the drivers in their traditional dress.

David Godson has participated in the Fall Invitational Drive for 15 years; his wife Liz has participated for six years. Their American Saddlebred, Obediah, is about to turn 20 and was driving a country gig (two-wheel carriage).

"We love this event," said Liz. "This provides us with a chance to meet up with our friends that we don't see very often. All of the horses just love participating."

The fall weekend drive has come to symbolize autumn in Aiken, adding to what has become an eagerly awaited experience within the community. Ginny Brooks drove Kiss Me Kate, her Dartmoor pony-quarterhorse cross.

"I've been here (in Aiken) for 11 years, and I've been driving for seven or eight years," said Brooks. "She (Kiss Me Kate) had her ifs, ands and buts this morning, but she seems to have straightened out. I look forward to the fall drive because I love going through town. I look for who I know, I wave and try to be as hospitable as I can."

The appreciation the driving club receives from the community serves as the impetus for many of the members to keep participating.

"We really enjoy being able to return something to the many people who come out to support us," said Pixie Bater, Aiken Driving Club president. "It's nice to be able to share such a tradition and sport."

Contact Ben Baugh at bbaugh@aikenstandard.com.