Spectators watch harness race competitors warm up before the start of Saturday's Burger King Race at McGhees' Mile Track in Aiken. The laid-back harness races were the last leg of the Aiken Triple Crown. CHRIS THELEN/STAFF

The smell of food sizzling on grills mixed with dirt kicked up by passing horses at McGhees' Mile track. People laughed, cheered and bet on their favorite horses.

Announcer Ken Hardin teased the race fans. He has announced the races for 16 years. His color commentary drew laughter from the crowd and matched its low-key feel.

"They brought a professional down one year from Buffalo," Mr. Hardin said. "He was good, but I'm cheaper.

"It's like a country outing almost. It's more casual and relaxed" than the Triple Crown's first two races, the Aiken Trials and the Steeplechase.

Organizers estimated 4,000 people showed up, down a little from last year because rain postponed the event last weekend. Past races have drawn as many as 6,000 people.

"Take a good look at the horses folks," Mr. Hardin called out as they passed. "Place your bets at the window, if you can find them."

Organized gambling on horses in South Carolina is illegal, but that didn't slow friendly unorganized wagers.

Evelyn Abel won $8 on two races.

"Big money, huh?" she said.

Gambling on horses was part of many lively conversations at the track. Although some horse enthusiasts want it legalized, critics have opposed the idea.

Horse owner Max Willis said it's hypocritical for South Carolina to run a lottery but not allow gambling on horses.

"(The lottery) is the worst kind of gambling," Mr. Willis said.

Mr. Hardin grew up around horse racing in Ohio. He contends legalization would benefit the sport.

"We'd be hard pressed to pack the people into this facility" if gambling were legalized, he said. "It's a shame."

Reach Josh Gelinas at (803) 279-6895 or josh.gelinas@augustachronicle.com.