Phelps Wows the Maryland Legislature

The Maryland General Assembly is in full-on fanboy mode today, as Olympic swimming champion and Towson native Michael Phelps visited lawmakers and picked up a proclamation in his honor. Delegates gave Phelps a sustained standing ovation, as the visitor's gallery filled with a decidely female crowd.

"It's an honor and a privilege to be back home," Phelps told delegates, flashing his famous toothy grin.

Phelps is honored on the floor of the Maryland Senate. (AP)

Crossing briefly through the statehouse's lobby from the House chamber to the Senate, Phelps was mobbed by reporters. In reponse to a question, he weighed in the Preakness, the horse race the assembly is hoping to ensure remains in Maryland.

"To have it leave Baltimore, I can't really see that happen," he said.

Phelps said he's never attended the race but hopes he still has the opportunity to do so.