Lochte, Phelps Advance To Final Of Loaded 400 IM
OMAHA, Neb. (WJZ) -- He's already the most successful Olympian of all time. Now Baltimore's own Michael Phelps is competing in the Olympic trials in Omaha.
Jessica Kartalija explains how Maryland already has Phelps fever.
With 14 gold medals, Michael Phelps is looking to add even more to his collection.
"We all want to be the best that we can be. We want to win; that's just how we are," said Phelps.
In Omaha, the Olympic trials continue, with Phelps going head-to-head with friend and rival Ryan Lochte in the 400 IM.
"I guess you could say people are trying to catch him," said Phelps.
At Meadowbrook, Phelps' home training facility, everyone has Phelps fever. The talk around the pool is about Phelps at the trials.
"I think he's really good and he's probably going to win," said one swimmer.
Phelps and Lochte bring a positive dynamic to the pool. Since the Beijing Olympic Games, swimming has gained popularity.
"He's a great swimmer and my kids are looking up to him, and especially the kids in Baltimore City and throughout the country," said Michael Mfume.
Phelps will compete in six other events at the Olympic trials. He needs to finish in the top two to compete in the Olympics.
"If he can win eight medals in Beijing, he can win it in London," said one swimmer.
More than 1,800 swimmers qualified for the trials. Fewer than 50 will make it to London for the Olympics.
