Our reporter, Mathabatha Maila, took part in the 10 km Greatest Train Race which happened on a Women’s Day from the Witbank Dam.
The scene was breathtaking with 3,000 runners gathering in high spirits as nature itself seemed dressed in its finest to mark the occasion.
When the whistle blew, I surged forward with the crowd, my feet pattering rhythmically on the road. About 200 metres from the dam, I spotted a fellow runner struggling to keep pace. Without hesitation, I slowed to match her pace, shouting words of encouragement to keep moving.
For nearly a kilometre, we ran side by side, exchanging smiles and cheers that fueled our energy. When she felt ready, she picked a “pole-to-pole” rhythm, running two or three poles then walking one, while I surged ahead weaving through the crowd and cheering on every runner in my path.
The first 3km felt effortless, a gentle downhill run, that filled my lungs with fresh air and the heart with confidence. Supporters lined the route, cheering “Power! Power!” for every passing runner. By the 5km mark, the incline began, but spirits remained high and the music from the water station pulled me forward. Tables were laden with food, water, cool and energy drinks, and sweets while a lively commentator praised every runner passing through.
The route felt safe and well-managed, thanks to the Departments of Health, Sport and Traffic.
Settling into my pace, the crowd’s cheers carried me forward. By the 6km mark, a group of Palestinian supporters stood holding placards reading, “Free Palestine” and singing in unison. Their voices blended with the rhythmic pounding of my feet and the runners around me, creating a powerful sense of unity. It was a celebration of community and solidarity.
The 7km mark brought a surge of excitement. An unofficial “bus” — a cheerful group running together — rolled into action. The “driver,” a Thungela Club member, kept spirits soaring with songs such as “We runners don’t stop, we runners don’t walk”. Every two kilometres, water points offered refreshment, sweets, and slices of juicy oranges for an instant boost.
The day’s true spirit shone brightest on a hill climb. A man in his fifties struggled to ascend, when two women from the bus immediately stepped in, encouraging him all the way to the top. That’s when I realised, in a marathon, we are family.
The finish line was a celebration in itself. Smiling ladies draped medals over finishers’ necks, wishing each a “Happy Women’s Day,” while sponsors handed out chocolates and race bags included a R100 pizza voucher for post-race indulgence.
I watched runners of all ages celebrate their victories. In the 10km race, Lerato Masilo won the open category, with Mbali Skhosana taking 40+, Zelda Keyser 50+, Jeanette Welgemoed 60+, and Cora Senekal 70+.
Junior Leila McDougall crossed the line in 1:14:29, her determination shining with every step.
The 21km race was just as inspiring. Otalia Nhapimbe not only won the open category but also the 40+ category, taking home two prizes. “This is a day for all women to rise and shine. Running shows we can push through any challenge. Every finish line is proof of our strength. Today, we ran not just for ourselves, but for every girl with a dream.”
Veteran runner Audrey Turpin, 60+, added, “Running on Women’s Day is a gift to my soul. It reminds me that health is a blessing at any age. Every step is a celebration of life. I hope all women find something that makes them feel alive.”
In a moment that gave everyone goosebumps, sirens from SAPS, traffic police and an ambulance announced the arrival of the last finisher, a 75-year-old man whose determination earned the respect of every runner. As he crossed the line, the crowd erupted in applause, proving the day’s most important lesson: the aim is to finish, no matter the time.
This Women’s Day Train Race was more than a run — it was a celebration of community, kindness and the joy of lifting one another with every step.
Race organiser Johan Janse van Rensburg summed up the day perfectly: “The race was more than just sport. It brings people together, encourages healthy living, and creates memories for the community. Every runner here today is a winner in spirit.”
