We're previewing the races that are taking place at the U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials.Women's 800 Meter Freestyle
What to watch for: For the first time in history, I think that Janet Evans' nearly 20-year-old record might be challenged tonight. Katie Hoff is about a good a female swimmer as this country has seen in over a decade and has shown that she's focused and prepared for this meet. The women don't swim the 1500 meter distance, which is reserved just for men, so this is where the distance swimmers will get their chance to shine. Watch for swimmers with a steady 2-beat kick and a long, comfortable stroke.
What it takes: Hoff is swimming in this event. And for once isn't seeded first. The first seed belongs to 20-year-old Kate Ziegler. If Hoff and Ziegler can push each other in the finals of this event tonight, we could watch one of the longest standing records in swimming fall. Ziegler is seeded first and Hoff second going into tonight's finals. The two are seeded over thirteen seconds ahead of third seed Kelsey Ditto.
Unlikely underdogs: While her chances of making it to Beijing are slim, keep an eye on Caroline Burckle, who has swum well at these Olympic Trials.
My prediction: Thirteen seconds is a LOT of time. Hoff and Ziegler can book their tickets to Beijing.
