Bubb clocks second successive podium at Johnson Crane Marathon

She clocked 01:26:57 to grab the runner-up spot, finishing behind winner, Minki Lotter.

January 29, 2026

Lebohang Pita 2 minutes read

The women's half-marathon podium Kaitlyn Bubb (runner-up), winner Minki Lotter and Shanice Peens. Johnson Crane Hire MD Lalith Senarathne and Bruce Fordyce congratulated them.

Kaitlyn Bubb entered the finishing straight of the Johnson Crane Marathon on January 25 in her trademark buoyant style, seemingly unaware that Shanice Peens was closing in fast behind her.

The moment that it clicked that she was under threat, Bubb regrouped and unleashed a final surge, as both athletes produced a thrilling sprint to the line before sealing their contest with a warm embrace after crossing.

Kaitlyn Bubb (right) with Shanice Peens.

“It was a good finish. I didn’t even know she was behind me. She’s a good competitor. I felt nervous when I passed her on the route because I felt she was supposed to be far ahead,” she said.

The Benoni Northerns Athletic Club (BNAC) athlete clocked 01:26:57 for second place in the women’s 21.1km, which was 01:06 off her course PB from last year’s race when she also finished second in 01:25:51.

Former Benoni City Times journalist Logan Green crossed the line in the men’s half marathon with his bundle of joy and wife. They are with BNAC media liaison Kerry Webb.

“It’s a home ground race. I’m familiar with the route, and I know when to pace myself. The race is always a highlight of the year,” said the runner, who is coached by Mark Dingle.

Also Read: Bubb illuminates women’s half-marathon at Old Eds Race

Peens was a second off the pace to clinch the last podium position after Meyerton AC teenager Minki Lotter took the line honours in 01:26:31.

Bubb, the Benoni Northerns Sports Club sportsperson of the year, found this year’s race hard, especially because she’s training to make her Ironman debut at the Isuzu Ironman 70.3 Durban in June.

“This was tough compared to last year. I was nervous to run this. I never planned for it. I’m leaning more towards cross-training. I was of two minds about this. But it was a good confidence booster and a good start to the season to gauge where I am at the moment. From here, it’s only up,” said Bubb.

Top 10 for De Bruin

Marathoner Alison de Bruin produced another standout performance in the women’s 42.2km race after her maiden podium in last year’s event. De Bruin, who made her Comrades Marathon debut last year, battled to eighth place in 03:20:06.

The Kenyan Gladys Jepchirchir won the race, with two-time Comrades gold medallist Adele Broodryk second and Omuhle Kubheka third.

Other notable performances from the BNAC cohort include Zwelake Mkorwana’s10th place in the veteran men’s race. He clocked 02:53:49, while Sipho Dzingwa finished fifth in the men’s grandmasters’ race with 03:30:41.

Also Read: Bubb, Doran steal the show