The Rand Motoring Club
From hosting the iconic Durban–Johannesburg motorcycle races to weathering post‑war challenges, the Rand Motoring Club carries a rich legacy of passion and resilience.
RMC History
The Rand Motoring Club, like most other clubs and associations that have histories exceeding half a century, has had its up and downs. From and extremely active period between the two world wars when it organised the annual Durban – Johannesburg motor cycle races as part of its very full programme of motor cycle events, it passed into a postwar period where all club activities were suspended due to complete lack of support due to petrol rationing and non-availability of machines and parts.
Club Records
Club Records
The club records date back to 10th May, 1906, when it was known as the Johannesburg Motor Cycle Club. At this time open road events, including races, hill climbs, economy runs were organised for members and cash awards were paid to the winners.
The club’s records reveal a gap between August, 1909 and 9th February, 1911, when the club was re-constituted as the Rand Motor Cycling Club. From this stage the club’s activities increased and members enjoyed a period of well-organised and supported events by both competitors and the trade. This activity continued until the outbreak of World War II. The club did not confine its activities to motorcycle events, but took a strong interest in motoring and motoring laws in South Africa at that time.
JHB to Durban Race
In 1913, the club organised the first motor cycle race between Johannesburg and Durban. This event was a resounding success and was organised every year there-after up until 1936 (except for the war years of 1915 to 1918), after which the administrators of the Transvaal and Natal refused permission for the event to be held due to the high speeds and increasing congestion on the roads.
Name Change
The club’s present name was adopted in the 1930’s as it was then actively organising events for both cars and motor cycles. The Barberton trial, an event first held in 1927 and which is still held annually today, was one of the club’s first events organised for both cars and motor cycles. The Clubs activities in recent years have been devoted to organising motor car rallies, races and other competitive events as well as social functions for club members.
Name Change
The club’s present name was adopted in the 1930’s as it was then actively organising events for both cars and motor cycles. The Barberton trial, an event first held in 1927 and which is still held annually today, was one of the club’s first events organised for both cars and motor cycles. The Clubs activities in recent years have been devoted to organising motor car rallies, races and other competitive events as well as social functions for club members.
Club Members
The club caters for all types of members, i.e. for those interested in simple motor rallies through to members who compete in the tough National Championship events, as well as for members whose main interests are in touring, gymkana’s or even just social evening natters on motoring topics.
