The Greatest Train Race

Fun in Middelburg

The 23rd was race day in Middelburg. Thousands of athletes pitting their skills against a train from Witbank to Middelburg. There were clubs from far and wide supporting the 28th Greatest Train Race and fun was had by one and all. Seven from our club attended the event; the Vinks x2, Donets x 3, Lucille and Pres. Steve. The Vinks and Donets booked into a guest house for the Friday night while Lucille and Steve supported the local High School teachers dormitory. 

After the pre-race briefing dinner was served at the Care Center and people scattered in the wind directions for a much needed bit of shut-eye before the race. New Dawn was allocated the 1st change-over and Steve was asked to assist at the 4th as it was short staffed and it is a hectic place to be at.

Prof Lucille got the only single room in the dormitory, and the rest all had 3 beds to a room. Needless to say, when Rotarian's from all over get together, it can lead to a boisterous event and this was no exception. Lively discussions and bantering was in abundance until the early morning hours. 

04h30 vehicles were fired-up and the bunch headed out to their respective points. It was a cold Saturday morning but the heat was on the moment the buses started to move. 150 buses transporting more than 15, 000 athletes to various points. At point 4 it started with buses from Middelburg only, as soon as the race started it became buses from Middelburg and Witbank as some athletes ran the 1st and 4th legs.

The fellowship and the event was great fun. There was hard work and long hours, but it ended with a great meal and a cold bear at the Rotary VIP tent. Well done to the organizers and congratulations on another great event! To all the Rotarian's who participated, you were awesome, and to all the New Dawn members, you make us proud!

I do believe the members who did not participate missed out on a super event. Hopefully more will see their way open to attend next year.

Pictures from the event, buses, motorcycles, athletes and a beautiful sunrise!

Please remember we have a speaker on Wednesday and the meeting will be at the Parkview Golf club. Our DGR and AG will be attending the meeting as well. Breakfast for your own account, there is no set menu so pick your own medicine. Those who are on duty Wednesday, please make sure you attend, if you cannot make it, please arrange with someone to do your duty on your behalf and let Katinka know what the arrangements are.

See you on Wednesday!