The 2012 Rotary Greatest Train Race



The tunnel finish branded by sponsors

The 2012 Rotary Greatest Train Race organised by the Rotary Clubs of Middelburg, Witbank and Middelburg Cycad took place on 18 August.



The medal which all participants received

The largest race in the 26 year history of the event attracted the entries of nearly 23000 participants. More than 140 busses were used to transport the athletes to their respective changeovers - Somewhat of a logistical challenge!

The 1st team finishes!!!

The Rotary Clubs made use of more than 900 volunteer marshalls to ensure the smooth running of the event.
As always the Train Race was a huge success with many smiles and lots of laughter. The participating companies used the event as a team building opportunity as well as an opportunity for their employees to let of some steam.
In this process the Rotarians hope to raise more than R1 million for the benefit of the needy in the community. We will keep you posted to see if the target was achieved.

Participants stream across the finish line

We would like to thank our main sponsors, Anglo American, Eskom and Xstrata Coal for their continued support of the race. The race would also not have been possible if it was not supported by a number of other sponsors who contributed in some manner (large and small).




It was also wonderful to be joined by Rotarians from Louis Trichardt (and the Agorra ladies), Pretoria West, Rustenburg and White River, who helped as marshalls. We look forward to having you here again at the 2013 Race.

The ladies from Louis Trichardt

PDG Nic van Zyl and Joan joined us from White River

AG Ian Bannatyne (Louis Trichardt) enjoying a meal and a chat after a hard day at one of the change overs

Congratulations and well done to the Organising Committee of the 2012 Greatest Train Race, Rotarians and the Volunteers who were involved in a wonderful day!!!!!

Former Chairpersons of the Race Andre Brandmuller and Anthony Beale enjoying a few memories

The sign says it all!!

The success of the day was mirrored by the comment of Middelburg Mayor Mike Masina, who indicated that he would like to have a meeting with the Organisers of the Greatest Train Race and the Chambers of Commerce in order to join hands in the growth of the event.