The Great Train Race (Heidelberg)

A celebration that brings the charm and excitement of vintage transportation to life. Inspired by the legendary 1930 race between Woolf Barnato’s Bentley and the Blue Train

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Heidelberg

The Great Train Race 2024

Feel nostalgic with vintage travel and transport at The Great Train Race in Heidelberg, Gauteng. Be amazed at the fantastic display of beautifully restored trains, cars, motorcycles, and aircraft—all together, literally bringing history to life for that nostalgic and action–packed day for young and old alike. The spectators will see an unforgettable sight of a chugging Rovos Rail steam train, while classic cars and motorcycles act as escorts on the road below and biplanes do most twirls overhead in an aerial display that will take your breath away. Replay the legendary 1930 Bentley and Le Train Bleu race from Monte Carlo to Calais, savor international and local cuisines, and enjoy a raft of family activities and live entertainment. Some of the main events include:

Cultural Experience

Savor authentic international cuisines from Italy, France, India, the USA, and more, along with South African favorites like breakfast rolls, craft beer, and locally made gin.

Live Entertainment

Relax with live music featuring timeless tunes that set the perfect backdrop for a day filled with historical charm and family-friendly activities.

Family Fun

Kids can ride a miniature steam train, take helicopter flips, and explore vintage cars and motorcycles. Enjoy the sound of a World War II Spitfire engine and discover retro stalls with unique items.

Aviation Show

Enjoy an exhilarating display of biplanes, Harvards, and Pumas performing breathtaking stunts in the sky, showcasing vintage aviation prowess.

Take peek at our last event

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Event Itenary

08h00

Gates open at the Heidelberg Airfield

Opens

10h00

Steam Train Arrival

Anticipation builds as participants wait for the Rovos Rail steam train whistles – a “double header” from 1893 and 1946 – up yonder on the olde Heidelberg bridge.

10h15

Salute at Heidelberg Station

As the train arrives at Heidelberg Station, the Stasiemeester directs both pre-war and post-war vehicles to line up along the station platform for the Salute. The platform is reserved for those in vintage attire, enhancing the historical experience.

11h05

Arrival at Heidelberg Airfield

Pilots dressed in vintage aviation gear pose alongside their aircraft for the arriving vintage cavalcade before it disperses for drivers and riders to park under the national flags of their machines’ countries of origin.

11h30

Show and Tell Sessions

The Stasiemeester invites select owners of pre-war and post-war machines onto the display ramp to discuss their vehicles.

14h00

Prize-Giving Ceremony

At 2:00 PM, the prize-giving ceremony commences, with numerous prizes awarded for machines and for individuals dressed in vintage attire

16h00

Event Conclusion

Closes

The Great Train Race

Participants and visitors are encouraged to dress in period attire to enhance the nostalgic atmosphere. Prizes will be awarded for the best-dressed individuals and the most impressive vintage machines.

  • 28 September 2024

    08h00 - 16h00

  • Heidelberg Airfield

    Heidelberg, Gauteng

  • Entry Fee

    Adults → R80
    Scholars → R40
    Pre-Registered Participants (Driver) → Complimentary
    VIP Tickets → R200

  • Vehicle Eligibility

    Entries Close 31 August 2024
    Prewar → Pre-1940 Manufactured Vehicles
    Postwar → Pre-1981 Manufactured Vehicles

  • Contacts

    entry@thegreattrainrace.co.za

* For those not in period attire a R30 surcharge is payable at the gate in the form of a Voucher to be used at any stall on the day.

Event Registration

Closing Date for Entries: Saturday 28th of September 2024.

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