ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Shannon McCarthy

The East County Observer and Bogey’s Restaurant and Sports Pub have teamed up to showcase the East County’s top athletes. Each recipient’s article will be featured on the restaurant’s wall.

Fifteen-year-old Shannon McCarthy set personal bests in five of six events, including setting a new long course YMCA National Time in the 100-meter backstroke (1:11.43) at the Florida Senior Championships July 22-25 at the Selby Aquatic Center in Sarasota. The Lakewood Ranch sophomore finished in the top 16 in four events, including a fifth-place finish in the 50 freestyle (27.78). Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

Of all the events that you swim, which is your favorite?
The 50 freestyle. You just give it all you have — all that energy — for that one race, and it’s just 50 meters.

What made you decide to start swimming again?
I started when I was 8 years old, and then I took a break when I was 12 years old. I started back up again my freshman year because I loved it when I was younger. I just wanted to try it again and see how it went.

What do you enjoy the most about swimming?
It’s a great way to keep in shape, and a lot of my friends are on the swim team. I also like seeing how far I can push myself to achieve a goal.

Do you have any siblings?
I have one sister, Maya, who will be a freshman at Lakewood.

If you could go anywhere on vacation, where would it be and why?
New Zealand. I lived there when I was 10 years old. It was beautiful, and I had a lot of friends there, so it would be really cool to go back there.

Who is your biggest role model?
I just try to live by what God would want me to do; and if I’m ever worried about something or feel like I can’t do something, I just turn to God for help.

What’s your favorite type of music?
Country music. I like Kenny Chesney.

What’s your favorite dessert?
Everything. I love sweets — anything chocolate.