Colorado swimming prodigy Missy Franklin could qualify for her first Olympics tonight as the 17-year-old swims the 100-meter backstroke final in Omaha, Nebraska.

The Regis Jesuit High School student mowed through competitors Tuesday at the Olympic Trials and set a national age-group record in the 100-meter back semifinals with a time of 59:06. Bonnie Brandon, a recent Cherry Creek High School graduate, also advanced to tonight's finals. The top two finishers will join Team USA in London.

Overall, Franklin could qualify for the Olympics in up to five events: the 100- and 200-meter backstroke and the 50-, 100-, and 200-meter freestyle.

Franklin is considered one of the potential breakout stars of the London Olympics, which will begin late next month. I profiled Franklin in June's edition of 5280.