Congralutations to Missy Franklin for her first individual gold medal! The competition, I have to admit, was tough, but what made it truly outstanding was that she had only nine minutes to cool down from her last race. I'm really keeping an eye on her for these Olympics. Perhaps it's because the media is gobbling her up with love, but I think the reason is because this is the first time I've watched a Summer Olympics and seen competitors younger than me. It's so strange, because I'm used to looking up to inspirational figures such as Michael Phelps as belonging to another generation , but now I'm looking at someone who's closer to my age.

Again, congratulations. You're not even finished with high school and you won gold. It's amazing what someone can achieve if she just starts swimming early and holds on to the desire to do her best.

Merida