ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Hannah Asay

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.

Lakewood Ranch junior Hannah Asay lifted a combined 230 pounds at the Section 8 qualifier Jan. 13 to win the 119-pound weight class in just her first season lifting weights. Asay now will move on to the state-qualifier Jan. 26 at Port Charlotte. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

What was your reaction when you won the sectional qualifier?
I was really happy. There was another girl from (Bayshore) who I went against in another meet, and when we saw each other, it was competitive. I beat her last time, and she wanted to beat me, but it didn’t happen.

How did you get into weightlifting?
I wanted to do another sport, and I’m pretty strong because of gymnastics; so I thought it would be a good sport to do.

What do you enjoy the most about weightlifting?
I love that it’s an individual sport because you’re the one lifting weights, but your teammates are also there cheering you on. I like that it’s all on your shoulders. If you win you did your best, and if you lose, you have no one to blame but yourself.

What are you plans for after graduation?
I want to go to the University of Florida and cheer.

Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?
I think I want to be an emergency room nurse.

Who is your biggest role model?
My mom. She’s really strong, and she’s always at everything that I do. She always supports me.

What’s your favorite type of music?
I love Christian music, and I like country music too.

Do you have any siblings?
Yes. I have an older brother Anthony, 18, a younger brother, Joseph, 6, and a younger sister, Grace, 4.