With the 2012 Olympic Games beginning today in London, it makes sense to introduce you to one of America’s brightest stars. And at only 17 years old, Brooklyn native Lia Neal is now part of an elite group as a member of USA Swimming. Having qualified in the 4×100-meter freestyle relay, Lia becomes just the second African-American female swimmer to make the Olympics. Here, Life + Times takes a quick glimpse into her journey.