Franklin moves to consolation finals

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – University of Arkansas’ Chelsea Franklin moved into the consolation finals of the 500 freestyle after her performance Thursday morning at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center in Gainesville, Fla.

"Chelsea had a very good morning swim," head coach Jeff Poppell said. "We are looking forward to see her race tonight with an opportunity to improve."

Franklin finished in 12th place in the preliminary round with a time of 4:44.13. That is less than two seconds shy of her record-setting time in the event. Franklin was fourth in her heat.

"I’m very proud of the way the girls came in and competed this morning," Poppell said. "Obviously we started the morning a little sluggish, but I hope we can pull it together and get better."

Nicole Menzel finished 18 overall with a time of 4:49.41 for the freshman. Alison Templin was just behind Menzel with a time of 4:49.53.

The 200 IM prelims brought a career best for Jillienne Schilling with a time of 2:04.26. Julia Kucherich clocked 2:02.55 in the race, less than one tenth of a second off her career best.

Freshman Carly Mercer wrapped up the prelims by matching her best time of the 50 freestyle. Her 23.22 was the season-best time for the Razorbacks.

Arkansas heads back to the Stephen C. O’Connell Center this afternoon for the finals of the 500 free for Franklin as well as the 200 freestyle relay.