Benjamin Washington Johnson (1914–1992) was an American sprinter who was considered a serious rival to Olympic gold medalist Jesse Owens.

Known as the "Columbia Comet", Johnson was the United States champion at 100 yards in 1938, but injuries and the outbreak of the Second World War denied him a chance to compete in the Olympics.

According to the 1915 New York Census, he and his parents were living at 788 Union Street, Brooklyn in an apartment above the horse stable where Johnson’s father worked.

[3] Johnson continued his track success as a junior, breaking state records in the 100 and 220 yard dash.

[4] He was invited to compete in the 1932 United States Olympic Trials in California, but initially declined because of the cost of travel.

[5] During the 1935 season, Johnson won the AAU indoor title at 60 meters, equaling Jesse Owens's world best time of 6.6 seconds set earlier in the day.