Four days and counting

Olympic workers near the National Stadium in Beijing walk past a mural of American swimmer Michael Phelps, who will compete in as many as eight events during the Summer Games. Phelps is expected to challenge the record of seven gold medals earned by American swimmer Mark Spitz at the 1972 Munich Games.  (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

A swimmer glides through the water during practice for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, which officially open on Friday and run through Aug. 26.  (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Swimmers from all over the world share cramped lanes in the pool during practice for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.  (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

An Olympic diver stretches in the water during practice in preparation for the 2008 Beijing Games. Swimming and diving will be two competitions that help usher in the Olympics this summer.  (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

A volunteer waits for the start of swimming practice at the aquatic center in Beijing. The 2008 Summer Games kick off Friday with the opening ceremony.  (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)