Franklin eyes a Phelps-like workload

Eight is a special number in swimming, thanks to Michael Phelps.

Now, Missy Franklin will try to pull off a Phelpsian-like workload.

Just a year removed from her starring role at the London Olympics, the 18-year-old Franklin plans to swim eight events at the world championships in Barcelona.

Franklin qualified for the 100- and 200-meter freestyle, as well as the 50, 100 and 200 backstroke. Also look for her on the US team in all three women's relays.

The teenager concedes that her schedule is "definitely a lot," but says she's looking forward to competing in some of her favorite races. No swimmer -- male or female -- has ever won eight gold medals at a world championship.

Phelps, of course, won a record eight events at the Beijing Olympics.