Grand Canyon to run steam excursion as part of
‘Man vs. Machine’ race
WILLIAMS, Arizona – The Grand Canyon Railway is firing
up its former Chicago, Burlington & Quincy 2-8-2 for a special excursion
next month that coincides with the unique “Man vs. Machine” bicycle
race. On Sept. 26, Grand Canyon No. 4960 will lead the train from Williams to
the Grand Canyon with two coaches and a café car. There will be no diesel
helper. Along the way, the train will stop for at least one photo run-by. Upon
arriving at the south rim of the canyon, shortly after the regular excursion,
the steam run will take part in the “Man vs. Machine” bike race in
which the 1923 Baldwin will take on dozens of bikers in a 54-mile race.
Railroad officials say it has been more than 25 years since the race was held.
Round-trip tickets are available for the train that will depart Williams at 8
a.m. The train will arrive at the south rim at 11:30 a.m. and return back at
12:30 p.m. The race officially begins at 1 p.m. Tickets are $75 for adults and
$45 for kids. For more information, go to www.thetrain.com
and www.grandcanyonracing.com.
Unfortunately, I am unable to take the trip!
Rupert Gamlen
Auckland NZ