News Clippings
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Embargo : 13 April 2010
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ROTARY'S GREATEST TRAIN RACE STEAMS AHEAD
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It is time to get the hearts thumping and arms pumping for the 24th Rotary Greatest Train Race to be hosted on Saturday, 21 August 2010. Whether you are an athlete, supporting participant or sponsor, the 2010 event is envisaged to be the largest event of its kind in Africa. The race against the train, between eMalahleni (formerly known as Witbank) and Middelburg, attracted more than 15 000 runners and walkers last year whilst an equal amount of volunteers, marshalls and sponsors worked and enjoyed a day of commitment in aid of the needy in local communities. The Greatest Train Race annually raises funds for specifically selected charitable organisations in the communities of Middelburg and eMalahleni (Witbank).
Speaking at the launch of the 2010 event, Race Convenor, Jan Botha said: "The financial and logistical support received from our sponsors during the 2009 event enabled us to stage an event that generated more than R850 000.00 for local community based projects. The Rotary Greatest Train Race remains a community investment project driven by the community for the community. We are honoured to have Anglo American, BHP Billiton Energy Coal South Africa, Optimum Coal as well as Shanduka Coal on board as main sponsors of the 2010 event. Metrorail have once again committed themselves to sponsoring the train. Many local organisations and smaller businesses remain committed partners in this event that brings a considerable amount of joy to the lives of those less fortunate. We would like to appeal to companies in the surrounding communities to seriously consider becoming partners in this worthwhile venture."
The funds generated from the 2010 event will be allocated to the following possible beneficiaries:
- Middelburg Care Village;
- Maintenance assistance to the Homes for the Aged in eMalahleni, Hendrina and Middelburg;
- Provision of sanitation, water and essential equipment for Rural Schools and Preschools in the area;
- Middelburg Hospice;
- SA Reserve Police Services annual training (Middelburg and eMalahleni);
- Loskop Children's Fund;
- Establishment of Media Centre in Middelburg;
- Establishment of Education Centre at eMalahleni Nature Reserve;
- Highveld Society for the Disabled (eMalahleni);
- Assistance for Home Based Care Group at Laersdrif under the auspices of CMR;
- Sponsorship of less fortunate Aged to SWEMB for 1 week;
The final decision as to the allocation of funds will be advised once the quantum of the proceeds of the GTR is known. The race committee still supports the "Run for a Bible" cause whereby race entrants can voluntarily sponsor a Bible for R25,00.
Notably one of the largest charity events of its kind in the country, the Rotary Greatest Train Race annually sets the stage for unlimited sponsorship opportunities and community investment. There are a number of varied sponsorship opportunities still available for small to large businesses as well as private individuals and organisations. Interested parties may contact the race organisers by e-mail at admin@gtr.co.za or the race office on 086 118 7246.
The event, which is renowned for its festive atmosphere and camaraderie, is popular with individual runners, teams and walkers. Walking and running teams consist of 5 members per team. Runners (individuals and teams) start at Witbank Station at 08h00 and cover a total distance of 28 kilometres. Walking teams will also start at Witbank Station this year. Individual walkers start at Hermansdal Stall at 08h00 and will complete a distance of 15 kilometres. The finish for both walkers and runners is at the grounds of the Steve Tshwete Municipal Offices, where a festive atmosphere awaits participants.
Entry fees amount to R300 per team (R150.00 for school teams) or R65.00 per individual. Temporary licences are available at R20.00 per licence. Entry forms and hospitality site application forms will be available from the beginning of May at the Middelburg Information Centre. Alternatively you may visit our official race website at www.gtr.co.za. Entries close on 23 July 2010.
For any enquiries contact 086 11 TRAIN (87246) or e-mail: admin@gtr.co.za.
Don't miss out on the "GREATEST" social and corporate hospitality event of 2010.
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© 2008 Rotary Greatest Train Race. All Rights Reserved.
