UP Challenger 3985 & Ringling Blue Unit Circus Train: 9/28/10

Watch UP Challenger 4-6-6-4 #3985, the largest operational steam locomotive in the world, pull Ringling's Blue Unit to Denver on UP's Greeley Subdivision. Per UP's website: "History was made Sept. 28, when No. 3985 pulled a 65-car train that was more than 6,000 tons and nearly 6,100 feet long, the most for a steam locomotive in the 21st century." Yes, it really happened!! The rumour that surfaced while I was chasing UP 844 on this same route in July came to reality. Word is, Ringling approached UP about making this happen. Timing was right with UP 3985 emerging from dormancy to run the Missouri River Eagle special. One of the most amazing rail experiences I've had in my life, it will be one of those legendary events we talk about for years to come. A well-documented account of the day can be found on TrainOrders.com's Western Board from author rbx551985 dated 9/30/10...a must-read for sure!

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• Union Pacific
• UP
• 3985
• steam locomotive
• circus train

[EverywhereWest]

LOL look at all the railfans chasing it at 2:56! Great video!

[timvpost]

I'm pretty sure its more than 6,000 tones cuz the thing is more than a mile long...

[niselat]

@speediracer4 the diesel is probably there in case the Challenger should break down. plus they needed the extra power to pull the Fat Lady

[speediracer4]

That wimpy looking diesel needs to disappear from that shot! She is more than capable by herself but it's all the dynamic braking and power supply things I guess that it's there. Still nice shots!

[36Divine]

She's not even breakin' a sweat!

[Heemaf]

Nobody got seasick in Greenly??

[JumpingJackFlash0001]

Very cool.

[bwarrrrk]

make the uk bult 9f look like atoy train