Sika Henry is proof that we can speak our goals into existence. If there's anyone who exemplifies persistence and determination, it's Sika. After years of training, a serious bike, crash, and even a pandemic, in May 2021 Sika became the first U.S. Black Female Professional Triathlete. In this episode, Sika shares how she started as a college walk-on, to the workaholic life in New York City, to then come back to sports as a marathoner, and now a triathlete. "I believe in speaking things into existence. No matter how crazy it sounds, just put it out there. The worst that can happen is it doesn't happen. And then so what, even if you feel embarrassed by it, it's like, who cares? At least you had the guts to attempt it and go after it." –Sika Henry In this episode we cover…

• Sika's childhood and early life as an athlete, she shares how she didn't peak until a few years into college but that she never quit on her dreams.
• The power of cross training swimming and biking have had on her running abilities.
• The intensity of triathlon as a sport. She shares that even "recovery days" entail swimming and an easy run. It's intense weeks and weeks of training.
• Sika opens up about her serious bike crash that landed her in the hospital and put a pause on her dreams of becoming a professional triathlete.
• It was with encouragement that she got back on her feet. She knew becoming pro would be a huge step in Triathlon for her to be an example for younger generations and represent inclusivity and diversity in the sport that only until last month didn't have a black woman as a professional athlete in the United States.
• She shares that only 0.5% of the sport is made up of Black people and that 64% of Blacks lack basic swimming skills. Sika shares the importance of supporting organizations that are making strides in aquatics and swimming accessibility.
• Organizations Sika recommends: Diversity in Aquatics and Black Kids Swim

Resources Instagram @sikahenry Sika's Website and blog Strava Article Thank you to Momentous, Tracksmith, and Picky Bars for sponsoring this episode.

Being a tough year with additional stresses on top of an already overwhelming situation means sleep can often be lost...but it is the one thing that we know would help us. Being a former insomniac, I know the frustration going to bed early, yet being unable to switch your brain off can bring. These Momentous Elite Sleep capsules are fantastic and contain Melatonin, Magtein® (Magnesium L-threonate), and Wild Jujube Seed Extract which together will help reduce nighttime anxiety, gently fall asleep and improve circadian rhythm to achieve higher quality sleep.

Go here and use code TINA for 20% off.

Tracksmith is a Boston based running clothing company that truly cares about the quality and care of their running clothes. Running can be a demanding lifestyle for our clothes, they definitely go through the wear and tear to where we may be purchasing new clothes constantly. Tracksmith designers truly work with the finest materials and think of you as a runner in mind with spots for your keys, phone, and fuel. You can go here to check out my favorites!

You can get $15 off your purchase of $75 or more, click here and enter code TINA15.

I am thrilled to be sponsored by Picky Bars now! I have had a few people on the podcast who are from the Picky Bar Company and I am happy to say that their ideals are right in line with what Running for Real stands for. These bars are not only delicious but made of real food and are made for sport, imagine that…. It's gluten, soy, gmo, and dairy free with even some vegan options.

Click here for 20% off AND you can also get an additional 20% off your order, if you purchase a Picky Club membership. A membership entitles you to hand pick your own Picky Bars products and you will be getting a box every month of your picks.

Thanks for listening!

We know there are so many podcasts you could be listening to, but we are honored you have chosen Running For Real. If you appreciate the work that we do, here are a few things you can do to support us:

• Take a screenshot of the episode, and share it with your friends, family, and community on social media, especially if you feel that topic will relate to them. Be sure to tag us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram
  • If you are struggling through something a guest mentions, chances are, others are too, and you will help them feel less alone
• Leave an honest review on iTunes or your favorite podcast player
  • Your ratings and reviews will really help us grow and reach new people

Not sure how to leave a review or subscribe, you can find out here.

Thank you to Sika, we look forward to hearing your thoughts on the show.