The Greatest Train Race

About the The Greatest Train Race

Please Note: Dates for this event to be confirmed

Mpumalanga’s greatest train race has been a favourite annual event for years, and continues to invite runners from all over the country to participate in the race, the fun, and the festivities. The race began as a relay event in 1987. Then, it was rerouted in 1992, which led to the involvement of the four local Rotary Clubs. Since this time, the charity event has become the Rotary Greatest Train Race. From this first step, the race has grown in size and popularity, and is now proudly one of South Africa's largest community investment projects.

The Greatest Train Race route takes runners along the R555 between eMalahleni and Middelburg. It begins at the Witbank Train Station and finishes at the Kees Taljaard Stadium. Individual runners can choose between a 32 kilometre run and a 15 kilometre one. There is also a 25 kilometre team relay event as well as a 4.9 kilometre fun run. These two events start and finish at the Kees Taljaard Stadium in Middelburg.

The race is open to everyone that wants to challenge themselves and to contribute positively to the local community. More than the race, though, the entire event is characterised by a sense of fun and mutual support. Families and friends gather here to enjoy the live entertainment, along with some delicious meals in the food court and an ice-cold beer, a glass of excellent local wine, or a cold drink in the beer tent. In addition, a site can be booked ahead of time so that you can enjoy a braai with friends and colleagues, right in the heart of the action. There are a number of lucky draw prizes throughout the morning’s festivities.

All participants receive a medal for their effort. This is a charity event and is well worth the sweat (and, sometimes, tears) to support the community at large.

Venue: Starts at Witbank Train Station running along R555 and finishes at Kees Taljaard Stadium in Middelburg. The Relay and fun run starts and finishes at Kees Taljaard Stadium, Middelburg.

To avoid disappointment it is advisable to book your accommodation well in advance for this event. Visit the Witbank Accommodation pages to find guest houses, hotels and self catering places to stay and for additional info about Witbank which includes attractions, restaurants and things to do, see Witbank Info.