Updated September 03, 2014.

Background and Accomplishments:

Distance swimmer Kate Ziegler is a two-time reigning world champion in the 800 meter event. Ziegler has generated buzz that she could be "The next Janet Evans."

The Great Falls, Virginia native continued to swim for her high school team through her senior year and is now a student at George Mason University (she turned professional in April 2006 and does not compete at the collegiate level).

Other Intersts:

Unlike many elite athletes who take time off in the run-up to the Olympics, she has continued to attend classes leading up to Beijing. Ziegler, who loves fashion and shopping, has considered becoming a personal shopper and likes to celebrate swimming success by getting manicures with her mother.

Training and Workouts:

Kate swims 11,000 meters/yards per day, 2-4 hours a day, 6 days a week.