Middelburg- The highly anticipated 2025 edition of the Greatest Train Race hosted by the Eskom Athletics Club is “going to be bigger than last year,” said one of the organising committee members Johan van Rensburg. “We’re ready and everything is in place. We’re just counting down to the 9th of August.”
Van Rensburg said all necessary approvals have been secured from provincial and local authorities, including the South African Police Service and the local traffic department.
To ensure safety, sections of the R104 and Cnr Conan Ntuli Street will be partially closed on race day, with assistance from both provincial and local traffic departments. Marshals will be deployed at major intersections, and the legacy team will be on standby to provide emergency support.”
Entries opened on 1 May and closed on 15 July, with a maximum cap of 2,500 participants.
In a shift from previous editions, this year’s route will begin at the Middelburg Railway Station and there are several upgrades including double the prize money, new merchandise for sale and an expanded entertainment programme.
“There will be live music, performing arts, and entertainment for children,” he said. “We want to create a fun-filled atmosphere for both participants and spectators.”
The 2025 race coincides with Women’s Day, and the organisers will use the event to promote health awareness. A wellness corner will be set up at the station, offering free services such as blood pressure checks and mammogram screenings for women.
The Thungela, which operates six mining operations in Mpumalanga donated R100,000 while the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality and Columbus Stainless each donated R60,000 to the race.
All the funds raised from this race will be donated to the Middelburg and Emalahleni Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and Highveld House in Emalahleni.
Van Rensburg encouraged community members to get involved. “This event is about giving back and bringing people together. We urge everyone to participate, support the cause, and celebrate the spirit of Women’s Day.”
