Franklin finished the mile race with a time of 16:03.94, which was her fastest time of the season and the second-best in school history. Franklin holds the Arkansas record with a time of 15:59.05 clocked last year at the NCAA Championships.

"Chelsea was faster than she swam at SEC's, and was just touched out of finishing in the top eight," said Arkansas head coach Jeff Poppell. "It was a good swim in all. After having back surgery in the summer, she did a great job of getting back to top form."

Franklin's performance helped Arkansas to a 41st place finish as a team. Sophomore Nicole Menzel also competed in the 1,650 free, and finished 25th with a time of 16:25.49 in the first championship appearance of her career.

"For competing in her first NCAA Championships I thought Nicole did a great job," Poppell said. "Now she knows what to expect moving forward, so she will be better off with the experience of being here."

Stephanie Peacock of UNC placed first in the 1,650 free with a time of 15:38.79. California took home the national championship for the second straight year, with a score of 412.5.

For more information about Razorback swimming and diving, please log on to ArkansasRazorbacks.com.