Hollie Sick

The Edwards Aquathon was scheduled as a 1k swim followed by a 5k run. However, it took place at 4:30 pm in August in the Mojave Desert, where the temperature typically ranges between 100-110°F at that time of day. Fortunately, it was "only" 100°F on race day, but this was due to the humidity and the threat of thunderstorms. The race was delayed due to the thunderstorms....

I had never heard of the Organic Hydration 180 Recover Drink until I saw them at the Conquer the Pier 5k. I thought, why not try them? Full disclosure: I had started writing this review, only to find there is little to no information about the brand and product. I am guessing they are fairly new....

I wanted to try the LMNT Sparkling Electrolyte Water Can but found it harder to find them in person. Finally, while in a bike shop in Santa Cruz, I saw them and purchased a few. I'm a fan of LMNT and have used their powders on and off in the desert. If you are looking for the saltiest hydration product on the market, chances are it's LMNT....

July felt like it took a second. Like I blinked and it's already over? It's hard to believe that a month ago, I was enjoying myself in Japan, but here we are. Training went pretty well overall, with some highlights and lowlights....

I have never and I repeat never been hotter in my entire life. Edwards aquathon that become a 2 mile run, 1k swim, 2 mile run. Lightening so they decided to do the run first so it passed and we could swim. It was supposed to be a 1k swim and 5k run. 😂 Who wants to run at 4:30 in August in the desert? LOL Anyway, took it fairly easy on the first 2 miles since it was hotter than the surface of the sun. When we got to two miles we were told now it’s time to swim. I was third person after the run and second person in the water. I swam the 1000 meters in around 16 mins and found myself in first by about 100 meters. I asked the lifeguard if we were done and he said yes. I asked if I could cool down and he said yes. While I was cooling down he found out we were not done and the second place person was starting their second run (now they were first 😂😂). I tried to catch them but it was so darn hot. Somehow I ran 7:04, 7:11 for the second two miles (in trainers 😂😂) and was about 20 seconds behind the first place person. It was fun I guess. Now I will hibernate in an igloo for the rest of the weekend.

I was excited to try the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer. Like many Newton fans, I've been eagerly awaiting their carbon-plated shoe! This brand-new shoe features a combination of PEBA midsole, carbon plate, and Newton's Action Reaction Technology. This shoe introduces Newton's latest foam, Newtonium-P, and boasts a certified vegan and sustainably constructed design. It's their fastest shoe yet! Before trying the Newton CF1 Carbon Racer, I had a few questions:...

I always wanted to do the Wharf to Wharf race in Santa Cruz. I've heard it is a lot of fun, and Santa Cruz is a beautiful area. It’s not really an area I've explored too much. The Wharf to Wharf race sells out, so it's important to register early. It's about 5.5 hours north of my house. This year seemed like a good year to run....

I was excited to try the OpenRock X Open-Ear Air Conduction Sport Earbuds. I'm always looking for high-quality headphones to work out, run, or live life. I recently tried the OneOdio OpenRock Pro and really liked those. Whether you're a runner, a business professional, or someone who enjoys daily use, the OpenRock X aims to cater to your needs. Before trying the OpenRock X Open-Ear Air Conduction Sport Earbuds, I had a few questions:...

Wharf to Wharf 6m 104th overall and top 100 get a prize so 4th loser for me 😂😭 6 miles @ 6:46 pace and my last 400 was 5:42 pace 😂…what can I say I live for earning awards and prizes 😭😭😭. I can’t really complain considering I ran a 5k last week just a few seconds faster per mile and it’s been a few years since I’ve run that pace. I don’t think I even broke 7 min pace for 5 miles last year. I felt pretty out of place with an E(lite) bib but I guess I deserve it. I struggle a lot with who I was as a runner, who I am now, and what I deserve at this point in my running career. It is hard not to compare myself to previous versions of me. I think we all do at some point! Until next time Santa Cruz. #wharftowharf

I’ve wanted to Wharf to Wharf for quite some time so glad this year worked out. The true miracle is I remembered to pack the bib they mailed to us 3 weeks ago. 😅 #wharftowharf

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The Topo Athletic Specter 2 is a highly anticipated update to one of the brand's most popular road shoes. I was really excited to try it for myself! The Specter is known for its lightweight design and responsive feel, it aims to cater to runners seeking a trainer capable of handling various paces and distances. It did not disappoint. Before trying the Topo Specter 2, I had a few questions:...

The Conquer the Pier 5k in Venice Beach was flat out not my favorite, for a few reasons. I just didn't feel good. I haven't recovered well since going to Japan, and my body has been fairly tired. I also think I probably picked some sort of cold a few weeks ago and now am dealing with the aftermath of congestion....

I was excited to try Prose Skincare. I've used Prose hair products before and I found them to be high quality. Unlike other brands, you take a survey and based on the results, Prose will make you a custom formula. As you can imagine, this process isn't cheap, but it does ensure you have the right products for you. While this is a running and fitness blog of course, I am always looking for products to combat some of the secondary effects of running and swimming outdoors (IE: exposing your face and body to harsh chemicals)....

We spent one week in Tokyo, and I'm excited to share our adventures as I bring my blog back to life. We had an incredible time exploring Tokyo, Japan, and while I'm slowly recovering from jet lag, adjusting to the West Coast has been challenging. But I digress. We planned our visit to Tokyo, Japan, where my brother is currently stationed....