Boomshakalaka: Winning Against the Odds

He has electrified RTÉ’s Olympic Games commentary with phrases like ‘boomshakalaka’ and ‘DOWNTOWN!’ and is one of the few people to both captain and coach a national team, but Irish sporting legend Timmy McCarthy is more than just ‘the basketball guy’.

In Boomshakalaka he takes readers on an inspiring journey from his humble beginnings in Cork city, through his business success and personal struggles, to the commentary booths of the Olympic Games, becoming a national treasure and one of Ireland’s most iconic sporting figures.

McCarthy shares the highs and lows of a life built on love, passion, perseverance and courage, and how he ended up inspiring a nation in 2024. Boomshakalaka goes deep into his life, as it tells the story of family, community, resilience, love and how his insecurities drove him to achieve success despite crippling self-doubt and multiple health struggles.

‘A story well worth reading’ – Ger Canning, RTÉ

‘Boomshakalaka is a slam dunk of a read’ – Roy Curtis, Sunday World

‘A true legend of Irish sport’ – Jacqui Hurley, RTÉ

‘You’d always be entertained when in conversation with Timmy, and his infectious energy comes across in this book’ Senator Evanne Ní Chuilinn

‘Timmy McCarthy is an enduring voice of Irish sport who both evokes nostalgia and continues to capture fresh ears’ Eoin Sheahan, Off the Ball

‘Tim embodies perseverance and perspective in a way that continues to inspire. The lessons he shares in this book reflect the same principles that have shaped countless professionals, including myself’ – Tony Delaney, Group CEO, SYS Group

Author: Timmy McCarthy
Publication Date: 20-10-2026
Format: Paperback / softback
Pages: 260
Publisher: Orpen Press
Height (mm): 234
Width (mm): 156
Length (mm): 0

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