On 25 October 2025, Vaal Mall became a centre of health and wellness for the eagerly awaited ACTOM Race Day, organised by ACTOM Turbo Machines. With a notable turnout of 2,100 participants, this year’s event represented a remarkable fourfold increase over last year.
At the heart of this campaign was the dedication of ACTOM employees, with 1220 employees representing the organisation. Among them, 270 employees from ACTOM Turbo Machines took part alongside their families, highlighting the company’s commitment to promoting health and well-being among its workforce and their loved ones.
Danie Bloem, Engineering Manager at ACTOM Turbo Machines, stated, “The ACTOM Vaal Mall Race Day caters to a wide range of runners, from emerging athletes to seasoned marathoners. The event features various distances, including shorter races designed to introduce younger participants to competitive running in a structured and safe environment. These categories follow the age restrictions set by Athletics South Africa, ensuring young athletes receive appropriate exposure to the sport.”
Bloem added, “Moreover, the longer distances are vital in preparing athletes for South Africa’s most esteemed endurance events, such as the Comrades Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon. Notably, the 32 km race acts as an essential training run for those moving from the half-marathon to the full marathon, allowing athletes to test their endurance in a supportive environment.”
Economic Impact and Community Engagement
The race day not only supports the athletic community but also significantly contributes to the local economy. With athletes and spectators descending upon Vanderbijlpark, local businesses experience a surge in spending on food, accommodation, and retail. The Vaal Mall, as the event’s central venue, buzzed with activity.
Community engagement is another crucial aspect of the race. A prime example of this is the partnership with DF Malherbe Primary School, which provided facilities for preparing food parcels for ACTOM employees. This collaboration highlights the strong ties between local institutions and corporate sponsors, showcasing a united effort from ACTOM to foster community spirit.
According to Sylvester Makakmu, Group Human Capital Director of ACTOM, “All the ACTOM shirts for the race, which all ACTOM employees and some private runners were wearing, were sourced from the Socio-development Company, Izintombi Zodwa, which ACTOM helped establish after selecting ladies from the informal settlement for training and a business venture, leading to them becoming a Service Provider to ACTOM”.
Partnerships and Sponsorships
The success of the ACTOM Vaal Mall Race Day can be attributed to strong partnerships and sponsorships, particularly with ACTOM, whose financial support was instrumental in making the event possible. The collaboration between the Athletics Club and ACTOM ensured that all necessary permissions were obtained from provincial athletics bodies and Athletics South Africa. Adhering to Joint Operations Committee requirements, including route approval, coordination with the Traffic Department, and completion of risk assessments, was essential for the event’s smooth execution.
Safety Protocols
In today’s environment, safety is paramount. The event organisers implemented a comprehensive safety plan developed in conjunction with local authorities. Each entity played a crucial role in risk assessment and emergency readiness, creating a secure environment for participants and attendees. This meticulous planning demonstrates a commitment to prioritising safety throughout the race-day experience.
ACTOM Wellness
The ACTOM Wellness Awareness Campaign is designed to promote health and well-being among employees and their families through a series of engaging initiatives and activities. At its core, the campaign aims to raise awareness of a range of health topics, including nutrition and physical fitness, as well as mental health and stress management. By addressing these essential themes, ACTOM seeks to empower participants with knowledge and tools to adopt healthier lifestyles.
A significant aspect of the campaign is its focus on community-building. By bringing together employees and their families, the initiative fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie. This not only enhances morale but also strengthens relationships among colleagues, creating a supportive environment that values well-being.
The increasing attendance at the campaign’s events indicates a growing interest in health-related initiatives within the organisation. It showcases how effective ACTOM’s outreach and engagement strategies have been in communicating the campaign’s message. Participants are provided with opportunities to learn through workshops, seminars, and group activities that are not only informative but also enjoyable.
In today’s world, where well-being is a priority for many, campaigns like ACTOM’s play a pivotal role in shaping healthier communities. By investing in its workforce’s health, ACTOM demonstrates its dedication to employee welfare and reinforces its commitment to a holistic work environment. Overall, the Wellness Awareness Campaign is an integral part of ACTOM’s strategy to foster a culture of health, support, and connectedness among all stakeholders.
Memorable Moments
From the outset, the 2025 ACTOM Vaal Mall Race Day was filled with vibrant energy. “One of the standout moments was witnessing the enthusiasm of young athletes, who embody the future of South African running. Their passion and dedication inspire all involved in the sport, highlighting the importance of nurturing talent from a young age,” Bloem said.
Mervyn Naidoo, ACTOM Group CEO, fired the starter pistol to officially open the race before joining the runners. The ACTOM Group executives not only participated but also presented prizes to the winners. This displayed camaraderie within the ACTOM family.
The ACTOM Vaal Mall Race Day is more than just a running event; it is a celebration of community, safety, and the development of future athletes. It continues to bring together runners, local businesses, and organisations in Vanderbijlpark, reinforcing its importance on the regional calendar. “As we look forward to future races, there is no doubt that the ACTOM Vaal Mall Race Day will continue to evolve, fostering growth and engagement in athletics”, Bloem concluded.
As the day drew to a close, attendees reflected on the unforgettable experiences they shared. The event at Vaal Mall not only brought joy and entertainment but also helped build connections among locals. Overall, it was a deeply enriching experience for all involved.