Setting records was not the priority for Maryna Bijker at the final edition of the Brooks Cradle Cracker series – yet the Roodepoort Athletics Club runner still walked away with a podium finish. Bijker clocked a time of 00:48:17 over the challenging 10km terrain to claim second place in the women’s field.

Held in the Cradle of Humankind with start and finish lines at Jodev Farms in Teak Place Estate, the event brought the three-race series to a close on Sunday, September 20.

Despite the race featuring plenty of elevation, Bijker opted to enjoy the experience rather than chase her usual 10km time.

Following a busy and tiring day at work on Saturday, Bijker decided the race would offer an opportunity to relax, take in the scenery and enjoy the fresh morning air.

“I knew I wasn’t going to run my usual time, and I was right. I finished about six minutes slower than my normal 10km time. But this time, it wasn’t about the clock,” she said.

“The Cradle Cracker was a tough race with a lot of elevation, but I actually enjoy the ups and downs of a race like that. Normally, I would expect to run a personal best on a course like this, but this time I was very tired. Still, I really enjoyed the challenge and the experience,” she said.

Unique puzzle medal adds extra incentive

One of the highlights for Bijker was the race medal. The medals from the three-race series fit together like puzzle pieces, giving runners an extra incentive to complete the series.

For Bijker, the Cradle Cracker proved that not every race has to be about chasing a personal best.

“Sometimes a slower run is just what you need, a chance to relax, enjoy the surroundings and appreciate being out,” she said.

“I will definitely be back to do it again!” she said.