Positive start for Bubb but tough challenges lie in wait
“I’m excited to tackle the goals my coach set out for me."
Benoni Northerns Athletic Club (BNAC) elite runner Kaitlyn Bubb kicked off her season with a top five finish at the Varsity Kudus 15km race in Braamfontein on January 4.
Bubb completed the women’s race in fifth place after clocking 01:06:04, finishing behind winner Rutendo Nyahora who breasted the tape in 01:01:42.
Carina Swiegers was second in 01:02:27 and Nedbank RC’s Gillian Farquharson clocked 01:05:40 for the last podium place. Veteran Elizabeth Potter finished fourth in 01:05:55.
“This race is always an eye-opener and allows me to assess my speed and fitness levels,” Bubb said.
Bubb isn’t counting her chickens yet after her positive start. She acknowledged that there’s still more work to be done to reach peak fitness before tackling her upcoming challenges.
“I’m excited to tackle the goals my coach set out for me. With his support, I’m eager to push my limits and embrace the journey ahead.”
Bubb, coached by Northerns’ Mark Dingle, has started her second training block in preparation of the TracN4 Elands Marathon 21.1km race on March 1 and the Totalsports Two Oceans half-marathon on April 6.
The Two Oceans half-marathon will be her primary focus again and she would like to improve her time and position after finishing the women’s race 15th in an incredible 01:28:47 last year.
Also Read: Two Oceans result delights Bubb
Reflecting on her 2024, she said her performance at the Two Oceans was her highlight, as well as her seventh place at the aQuelle Jacaranda City Challenge in Pretoria in November where she completed the marathon in 03:19:22.
“Completing the Jacaranda Marathon was another significant achievement. I have immense respect for marathon runners. While I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, my heart still lies with half-marathons.”
While Bubb enjoyed a mostly successful 2024, which included first place at the Red Star Marathon on Track 21.1km race in September and being named the BNAC athlete of the year, it wasn’t all glorious for the runner.
“There were definitely a few near misses but I view these moments as integral to my journey. They hold a deeper significance for me than merely ticking off goals. It’s in those close calls that I find valuable lessons and motivation to keep pushing,” said Bubb.
She also had to balance running with her studies but it was a challenge she embraced and would be taking it again this year.
“It’s always a challenge as I can easily find excuses. Nevertheless, I persevered and I’m excited to take on the challenge again.”
Her athlete of the year award and nomination for the Benoni Northerns Sports Club (BNSC) sportsperson of the year award at the club’s prize-giving in November, was “incredibly special”.
“While many believe that Northerns is solely focused on Comrades athletes, this award highlighted that the club values and recognises excellence across all distances.”
Also Read: Bubb races to podium finish
