Olympics-Franklin books London berth as Coughlin struggles  June
27, 2012|Reuters  By Julian Linden  OMAHA, Nebraska, June 27
(Reuters) - If the experts are big thing in women's swimming.
But achieving her dream could come at a high price.  To achieve
her goals, Franklin faces the bittersweet Natalie Coughlin.
Olympic trials and there is no room for any mistakes with only
the top two from each event making the team for London.  On
Wednesday, Franklin booked her place to her first Olympics when
she won the 100 meters backstroke final in a sizzling 58.85
seconds.  She raised her arms in triumph and flashed a smile
when the public announcer revealed she had also broken the
American record, previously held by Coughlin, who was also in
the final.  Coughlin finished third after leading the field
through the first lap in world record pace and did not qualify.
The Californian had won the event at the last two Olympics but
will not defend her title in London.  Worse still, she is
suddenly in danger of missing the Oly