Historic Race Reborn: The Great Train Race Marks 10th Anniversary

Historic Race Reborn: The Great Train Race Returns for its 10th Anniversary This Heritage Month

One of South Africa’s most unique heritage spectacles, The Great Train Race, makes its highly anticipated return on Saturday, 27 September 2025, at the Heidelberg Railway Station in Gauteng. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, the event coincides with Heritage Month and brings to life the legendary 1930 race between Woolf Barnato’s Bentley Speed Six and Le Train Bleu.

With headline sponsor Paysure Brokers, this year’s milestone edition promises a day of history, engineering marvels, and entertainment for families, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.

A Living Piece of History

The heart of the event is the dramatic live re-enactment of the 1930 race, streamed worldwide, where steam power clashes once more with combustion engines. Visitors can marvel at over 100 vintage cars, motorcycles, aircraft, and a majestic steam locomotive, all sharing the spotlight in this extraordinary celebration.

“The Great Train Race is about more than machines — it’s about keeping history alive for the next generation. Every collector plays a part in preserving a piece of our motoring heritage.”

Event founder and historian Christopher Van reflects:

Highlights to Look Forward To

• Convergence Spectacle: A choreographed showcase where vintage cars, motorcycles, and aircraft race to meet the Rovos steam train at the platform. Expect drummers, flag drops, and live commentary.
• Family Fun: A kids’ zone featuring crafts, mini steam rides, artisanal markets, food trucks, live performances, and a vintage-themed Best-Dressed competition.
• Music & Entertainment: Afrikaans pop sensation Bernice West, legendary band The Staccatos, and traditional cultural performances keep the energy alive all day.

A Collector-Driven Revival

Now described as “by collectors, for collectors,” the Great Train Race continues to be a hub for preserving and sharing the values of classic motoring.

“For us, the Great Train Race is about stories that connect people — the journeys our grandparents spoke about, the machines that defined an era, and the chance to relive that history today.”

Event patron and Paysure Brokers co-owner Yuvi Jasti explains:

“Events like this remind us that innovation only makes sense when you understand the past. From Le Mans to Goodwood Revival, and now The Great Train Race, we celebrate historical excellence to ensure these engines keep running.”

Motul South Africa is also backing the event. Mercia Jansen, General Manager for Southern and Eastern Africa, adds:

VIP Experiences

For those seeking exclusivity, VIP packages offer:

• Gourmet canapés and an open bar
• Private lounges and premium viewing areas
• Chauffeur services
• Helicopter flips and vintage aircraft rides

For more information, visit www.thegreattrainrace.co.za.

🎟️ Don’t miss your chance to join the #PrepWithMotul competition on MotulZA’s Facebook and Instagram to win tickets.