Team USA had two representatives in the Women's 100m Freestyle Final on Thursday. Missy Franklin, who has taken over the Olympics with her contagious smile and charm, was one of them. University of California alum Jessica Hardy was the other American. They were part of a very tough field for one of the more entertaining races in London.

Unfortunately for the US, neither swimmer placed for a medal. Franklin appeared to run out of energy late, dropping her to fifth place in 53.64 seconds. Hardy completed her 100 meters in 54.02, which put her in last place and a little more than one second behind the winner.

Ranomi Kromowidjojo of the Netherlands won gold in 53 seconds even. Aliaksandra Herasimenia of Belarus took home silver in 53.38, and Yi Tang of China got bronze in 53.44.

Stick with this StoryStream for more coverage of local athletes at the 2012 Olympic Games. For more on the 2012 Olympic Games, make sure that you check out SB Nation's dedicated Olympics hub.