AIKEN - It's a spring sensation in Aiken - the earth-shaking rumble of thoroughbreds charging neck and neck down the rail as their jockeys steer them towards the finish line.

"There's nothing like it," said Nina Nidiffer, of Graniteville, before the first race of the 64th running of the Aiken Trials. "There's not going to be any giveaways - they'll be fighting for every race."

Ms. Nidiffer was among thousands of people who attended the flat sprints of Saturday's first leg of the Aiken Triple Crown at the Aiken Training Track. Officials said they think the crowd far surpassed the event's average annual total of 8,000.

Mike Fanning, a liaison between the Aiken Jaycees and the Aiken Training Track, said the Aiken Trials were off to a smooth start with the support of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, the event's primary corporate sponsor, and other various organizations and agencies, including two Boy Scout troops and the Aiken County Sheriff's Office.

"We haven't had a turnout like this in many, many years," Mr. Fanning said. "We've got them lined up on Two Notch (Road) and Mead (Avenue). We're getting them in as fast as we can. People are wanting to get out - spring weather is here."

Bernadette Clayton, a member of the Aiken Trials Committee, said the great weather helped bolster attendance.

"It's perfect for racing," she said. "This is a time that families get together, spend some time and enjoy what Aiken's all about in a great location."

Mike Maclure said he has enjoyed his No. 2 slot on the rail at the Aiken Trials since he moved from Rhode Island 10 years ago.

"He's our head chef," said Mr. Maclure, gesturing to Harry Chase, a relative hard at work at a barbecue.

"It's just all family," said Mr. Chase, also an Aiken resident, who has attended the Trials for 23 years.

Bill Bezanson, an Aiken resident attending his 16th Trials with family and friends, said he has always enjoyed the event each year.

"The horses especially," he said.

With a smile he added, "Women I can't afford - horses I can."

Reach Nathan Dickinson at (803) 648-1395, ext. 109 or nathan.dickinson@augustachronicle.com.