Tarpon Springs Teen a Finalist in Miss Florida Pageant

Sponsored by her parents and grandparents, 14-year-old Lauren Hilliard is making her pageant journey a family affair.

Hilliard is an East Lake High School student and competes on the girls swim team as well as the YMCA PYP swim team. 

According to a news release, Hilliard will represent Tarpon in the National American Miss Florida Pageant, which consists of competitors aged 13-15.

When she's not competing in swim meets or in pageants, Hilliard likes to draw, shop and spend time with  her friends and family. 

The finals will be held in Orlando in July of 2013 and the winner will receive a $1,000 cash, the Florida crown and transportation to the national competition at Disneyland in California.