Franklin eyes a Phelps-like workload

Franklin eyes a Phelps-like workload

Published Jul. 26, 2013 1:00 a.m. ET

Eight is a special number in swimming, thanks to Michael Phelps.

Now, Missy Franklin will try to pull off a Phelpsian-like workload.

Just a year removed from her starring role at the London Olympics, the 18-year-old Franklin plans to swim eight events at the world championships in Barcelona.

Franklin qualified for the 100- and 200-meter freestyle, as well as the 50, 100 and 200 backstroke. Also look for her on the US team in all three women's relays.

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The teenager concedes that her schedule is "definitely a lot," but says she's looking forward to competing in some of her favorite races. No swimmer -- male or female -- has ever won eight gold medals at a world championship.

Phelps, of course, won a record eight events at the Beijing Olympics.

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