The 50 Freestyle Shaping Up to Be Free-For-All in Omaha

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil, July 21. SINCE it's the Olympic Trials, each event – typically – features down-to-the-wire battles for a chance to race on the biggest stage in sports. Next year in Omaha, competition should be no different as United States athletes chase invitations to the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. Here's an early look at some of the top challengers in the men's 50 freestyle, which is shaping up to be one of the most hotly-contested events.

Ben Wildman-Tobriner: As the reigning world champion, achieved earlier this year in Melbourne, Wildman-Tobriner has established himself as an international force. He's a quiet guy who goes about his business, but as his Stanford and Team USA exploits show, Wildman-Tobriner is a guy who can deliver when the pressure is on.

Cullen Jones: Heading into the World Champs in Australia, Jones was the favorite for gold, thanks to his No. 1 world ranking from 2006. The North Carolina State product has the goods to be the top sprinter in the world, and has also developed into a first-rate performer in the 100 free. Jones is a member of the United States' world-record holding 400 free relay.

Gary Hall Jr.: Currently competing at the Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro, Hall is the two-time defending Olympic champion in the 50 free and the American-record holder in the event. Although in his 30s now, Hall Jr. should never be counted out in big-race conditions and will undoubtedly make a run at qualifying for Beijing and the chance to make it an Olympic three-peat.

Jason Lezak: The American-record holder in the 100 freestyle and an Olympic gold medalist in relay action, Lezak is still looking for an individual medal in Olympic and World Champs competition. But, the veteran sprinter has long been an elite performer and can be expected to be among the top contenders in Omaha.

Nick Brunelli: Suffering a shoulder injury at last summer's United States Nationals, Brunelli was forced to undergo surgery and rehab. But, as his recent tuneup efforts have indicated, Brunelli is looking sharp and back in form. Look for Brunelli to push the 22-second barrier and be a prominent player in the 50 free and 100 free at the Trials.

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