Michael Phelps could win eight gold medals in swimming at the Beijing Olympics and break the record of seven set by Mark Spitz in 1972. Phelps is off to a great start as he won the 400 individual medley and beat his own world and Olympic record in the process. In the qualifying race yesterday he set an Olympic record.
He certainly has the ability to win eight medals. In the 2004 Games in Athens, the then 19-year old Phelps won 6 golds and 2 bronze medals. At the 2007 World Championships he won 7 gold medals including 2 relay golds.
Fellow American swimmer Katie Hoff was also attempting to break a record of 6 gold medals in one Olympics. That record was set by Kristin Otto of East Germany in 1988. Hoff finished third in the 400 individual medley tonight so the most gold she can win now is five.
Athletes capable of such a feat do not come around often. It's about time a record set in 1972 was broken. Though it may be hard to do as Spitz did and break the world record in each gold medal win. Seven finals (4 individual and 3 relays) and seven world records. Amazing!